// Short answer
At a glance
| n8n | Make | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Per execution or flat self-host | Per operation |
| Cost at volume | Lower | Climbs with complexity |
| Custom code | JavaScript & Python | Limited |
| Self-hosting | Yes (fair-code) | No (cloud only) |
| Visual canvas | Good | Excellent |
| AI / LLM workflows | Native nodes, strong | Added modules |
| Best user | Technical / agency-built | Visual, non-developer |
Pricing and how it scales
Make charges per operation — every module that runs inside a scenario counts. A single complex scenario can burn through operations quickly, so cost tracks complexity. n8n charges per workflow execution on its cloud (a whole run, many steps, one charge) and is flat-cost self-hosted. As your automations grow in number and complexity, n8n usually ends up the cheaper home.
Flexibility vs polish
Make's strength is its canvas: it's arguably the most visually pleasant automation builder, and non-developers get far on their own. n8n trades a little of that polish for raw capability — custom JavaScript and Python anywhere, any REST API, and self-hosting. If your workflow is mostly connecting apps with light logic, Make is delightful. If it needs to think, branch, and handle edge cases, n8n has the headroom.
For AI and data-sensitive work
For AI-in-the-loop automation and anything privacy-sensitive, n8n leads: native AI nodes, custom code, and self-hosting so data never leaves your infrastructure. We typically pair n8n with custom Claude Code agents when a build needs real judgment, not just data movement.
The verdict
Make if you want the prettiest canvas and you're building it yourself. n8n if you want power, control, and lower cost at scale. If n8n is the right tool but you'd rather not own the maintenance, that's our n8n automation service.
Frequently asked questions
- What's the main difference between n8n and Make?
- Make is a polished visual automation builder priced per operation, great for non-developers who want a beautiful canvas. n8n is a node-based, developer-friendly platform that runs custom code, connects to any API, and can be self-hosted. Make is easier to start; n8n goes further when workflows get complex or data-sensitive.
- Is n8n cheaper than Make?
- At volume, usually. Make charges per operation (each module run inside a scenario), which scales with complexity. n8n charges per workflow execution on its cloud and is flat-cost when self-hosted. For complex, high-volume automation, n8n is typically more economical.
- Can I self-host Make like n8n?
- No. Make is a cloud-only SaaS. n8n is fair-code and source-available, so you can self-host it on your own infrastructure for full data control and no per-operation fees — a key reason teams with privacy or volume needs pick n8n.
- Which is better for AI workflows?
- n8n, generally. It has native AI/LLM nodes, runs custom code, and self-hosts so data stays private. Make has added AI modules and is pleasant to build in, but n8n gives you more room for real agentic logic.
- Which should a non-technical user pick?
- Make has the gentler learning curve and a more visual canvas, so a non-technical user can often get further alone. If you need n8n's power but not the maintenance, that's where having it built and handed off makes sense.
Want it built on the right platform?
Book a 30-minute intro call. We'll pick the tool that fits and scope the build — zero pitch, no cost.
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