n8n Review
Open-source workflow automation tool that connects apps and services with a visual node-based editor. Self-hostable with 400+ integrations.
Last updated: February 18, 2026
Ratings
Pros
- Fully open-source and self-hostable for complete data control
- 400+ native integrations with custom code node support
- Visual workflow builder makes complex automations accessible
- Generous free tier — unlimited workflows when self-hosted
- Active community with shared workflow templates
Cons
- Steeper learning curve than Zapier for non-technical users
- Self-hosting requires server management knowledge
- Cloud pricing can escalate with high execution volumes
- Documentation gaps for advanced use cases
n8n is an open-source workflow automation platform that lets you connect 400+ apps using a visual node-based editor. It's free to self-host and starts at $20/month for the cloud version. Best for technical users and teams who want full control over their automation infrastructure.
What is n8n?
n8n (pronounced “nodemation”) is a workflow automation tool that connects your apps and services through a visual, node-based interface. Unlike closed-source alternatives like Zapier, n8n is fully open-source under a fair-code license, meaning you can self-host it on your own infrastructure for free.
n8n positions itself as a flexible middle ground between no-code and code-first automation. It supports hundreds of integrations and allows custom JavaScript or Python logic inside workflows, which is a major differentiator for technical teams.
Who is n8n Best For?
n8n excels for technical teams, developers, and automation-savvy professionals who want:
- Full data control through self-hosting
- Complex multi-step workflows with conditional logic and error handling
- Custom code integration alongside visual building
- Cost-effective scaling without per-execution pricing
Key Features
Visual Workflow Builder
Build automations by connecting nodes on a canvas. Each node represents an app, action, or logic step. The visual approach makes it easy to understand complex workflows at a glance.
400+ Integrations
Connect popular tools including Google Workspace, Slack, GitHub, databases (PostgreSQL, MongoDB), CRMs (HubSpot, Salesforce), and AI services (OpenAI, Anthropic).
Code When You Need It
The Code node lets you write JavaScript or Python directly in your workflow. This is invaluable for data transformations, API calls to unsupported services, or complex business logic.
Self-Hosting Option
Deploy n8n on your own server using Docker, Kubernetes, or npm. This gives you complete control over your data and eliminates per-execution costs.
Pricing Breakdown
| Plan | Price | Executions | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community | Free (self-hosted) | Unlimited | Developers, technical teams |
| Starter | ~$20/mo | 2,500/mo | Small teams getting started |
| Pro | ~$50/mo | 10,000/mo | Growing businesses |
| Enterprise | Custom | Custom | Large organizations |
The self-hosted Community Edition is completely free with unlimited workflows and executions — you only pay for your server infrastructure (typically $5–10/month on a VPS). Cloud plans include managed hosting, automatic updates, and support.
Pricing was last verified on February 18, 2026. See the official pricing page: n8n pricing.
How n8n Compares
n8n sits in a unique position between no-code tools like Zapier and developer-focused platforms like Apache Airflow. It offers visual building for simplicity while providing code access for power users.
For a detailed comparison, see our n8n vs Zapier vs Make comparison. You can also read our individual reviews of Make and Zapier for deeper dives into each competitor.
Our Verdict
n8n earns a 4.5/5 rating for its exceptional combination of open-source flexibility, visual workflow building, and extensibility. The self-hosted option alone makes it a top choice for cost-conscious teams. The primary tradeoff is a steeper learning curve compared to Zapier — but the payoff in control and capabilities is substantial.
For practical workflows, see our guides on automating client onboarding, building an AI content workflow, and automating social media with AI. n8n also appears in our best-of lists for freelancers, small businesses, and solopreneurs.
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