n8n vs. Make: Complete Guide (Comparison)

When it comes to no-code and low-code automation, n8n and Make are two of the most popular platforms on the market. Both help users connect apps, automate workflows, and streamline repetitive tasks without writing code—but how do you choose between them?

In this blog, we’ll compare n8n and Make across features, pricing, ease of use, and flexibility—and show how a more customizable, data-centric platform like Knack can offer even more control over your automation.

Key Takeaways

• n8n is better for developers or teams needing full control, self-hosting, and custom logic.
• Make is ideal for users who want a visual automation builder with pre-built SaaS integrations.
• n8n supports JavaScript functions, branching, and real-time custom logic.
• Make shines in user-friendliness, visual workflows, and built-in app modules.

Overview of n8n and Make

What is n8n?

n8n is an open-source workflow automation platform built for developers and technical users who want more control over their automations. It supports advanced use cases with features like JavaScript functions, custom nodes, and robust API integrations. You can self-host n8n for full flexibility or use the managed n8n Cloud service for easier setup and scalability.

What is Make?

Make is a cloud-based visual automation platform geared toward no-code and low-code users. Its intuitive drag-and-drop interface lets users build automated workflows, known as “Scenarios,” with ease. Make connects to hundreds of popular SaaS tools and services using pre-built modules, making it easy to get started quickly.

H2: Quick Comparison: n8n vs. Make

Feature	n8n	Make
Ideal For	Developers, engineers, and teams needing full control and customization	No-code/low-code users, marketers, ops teams, and agencies
Core Features	Javascript-based logic Self-hosting Custom nodes Webhook support	Visual drag-and-drop editor Pre-built SaaS integrations Built-in error handling
Pros	Open-source Unlimited executions when self-hosted Active developer community	Intuitive visual interface Hundreds of pre-built app modules Strong documentation and templates
Cons	Steeper learning curve Fewer out-of-the-box integrations Self-hosting requires DevOps	Limited flexibility for custom logic Complex scenarios can be difficult to manage Minimal control over backend infrastructure
Pricing	Free: Open-source, self-hosted Cloud Basic: Starts at $20/month Cloud Pro: $50+/month Enterprise: Custom pricing for advanced support and uptime	Free Plan: 1,000 operations/month Core: $9/month (10K operations) Pro: $16/month (40K operations) Teams/Enterprise: Starts at $29/month
User Rating (G2)	4.8/5	4.7/5

Core Features Breakdown

n8n Key Features

n8n is packed with developer-friendly tools that offer deep customization and control over your workflows. It’s especially powerful for those who want to self-host or build complex logic into their automations.

• Built-in Function node to write JavaScript for custom logic
• 350+ integrations and community-contributed nodes
• Advanced branching, looping, and conditional workflows
• Webhook support, error handling, and retry mechanisms
• CLI-based deployment and support for custom modules

Make Key Features

Make is built for visual simplicity without sacrificing functionality. Its real-time editor and pre-built modules make it easy for users of all levels to build automations quickly and effectively.

• Intuitive drag-and-drop visual editor
• Library of pre-built modules for popular SaaS apps
• Real-time scenario execution with visual replay
• Built-in tools for parsing data, working with arrays, and catching errors
• HTTP and JSON modules for custom API integrations
• Scheduling, routers, iterators, and other advanced controls

Unique Strengths of Each Platform

Why Choose n8n?

n8n is ideal for individuals with some coding knowledge who want to create automations faster than traditional coding allows. It is:

• Open-source and self-hostable: n8n gives you full access to its source code and the option to host it on your own servers, offering complete control over data, deployment, and customization.
• Built for developers: With native JavaScript support and the ability to create custom nodes, n8n is ideal for technical users who want to build complex workflows that go beyond simple automations.
• Cost-effective at scale: Self-hosting n8n removes the need for usage-based pricing, making it a smart choice for high-volume workflows and teams that need predictable costs.

Why Choose Make?

Make is a good choice for individuals without development backgrounds with automation needs. It offers:

• User-friendly visual editor: Make’s drag-and-drop interface is perfect for non-technical users, allowing anyone to create automations without writing code.
• Large integration library: With hundreds of built-in modules for popular SaaS tools, Make makes it easy to connect your favorite apps and start automating right away.
• Advanced workflow controls made simple: Make lets you handle arrays, filters, conditional logic, and data mapping visually, so you get deep control without the technical overhead.

Use Cases: When to Choose n8n or Make

Who Should Use n8n?

n8n is a great fit for technical teams and businesses that need full control over their automation environment. Developers and engineers who want to work with JavaScript, build custom integrations, or self-host their workflows will find n8n’s flexibility invaluable. It’s also ideal for organizations with strict compliance, security, or data residency requirements that can’t rely on third-party cloud services. If your automations involve complex logic, API chaining, or fine-tuned branching, n8n offers the tools to make it happen.

Who Should Use Make?

Make is best suited for teams that want to automate quickly without writing code. Marketing departments, operations teams, and agencies will appreciate its drag-and-drop editor and wide selection of pre-built integrations. It’s also a great option for freelancers or small teams who need to connect SaaS tools and manage data flows visually. If ease of use and speed are top priorities, Make’s robust error handling and visual logic tools may be the right choice for you.

What Customers Say About n8n

One of the best ways to determine whether a platform is the right fit is by hearing from others who use it. We’ve gathered insights from real users on platforms like G2 and Capterra to help you understand how n8n performs in the real world.

What Customers Like

• Self-hosting and data ownership: Users value having full control over where their data lives and how it’s managed.
• Flexible workflows with JavaScript logic: The Function node allows for powerful customization, making n8n a favorite among developers.
• Active community and fast-paced development: Frequent updates and strong community support keep the platform evolving.
• No execution limits when self-hosted: For high-volume automation, self-hosting can eliminate usage caps and extra costs.

What Customers Dislike

• Steeper learning curve for non-technical users: The platform isn’t as beginner-friendly as other no-code tools.
• Fewer out-of-the-box integrations: Some users wish n8n supported more apps without needing a custom setup.
• UI not as polished as Make or Zapier: The interface is functional but may feel less intuitive or refined.
• Requires setup and DevOps knowledge for hosting: Self-hosting offers control but comes with a technical overhead.

What Customers Say About Make

We’ve also compiled reviews from real Make users to guide your choice.

What Customers Like

• Highly intuitive visual editor: Users consistently praise the drag-and-drop interface for being clean, user-friendly, and easy to navigate.
• Excellent for integrating SaaS tools: Make’s large library of built-in modules makes it simple to connect popular business apps.
• Strong documentation and templates: Getting started is easy with clear guides and pre-built scenarios for common use cases.
• Affordable pricing tiers with generous limits: Many users find the pricing structure fair, especially for small teams or solo users.

What Customers Dislike

• Can become complex with larger workflows: As scenarios grow, managing and debugging them can get tricky without careful organization.
• Limited flexibility compared to open-source options: Power users may find it less customizable than platforms like n8n.
• API module customization is more limited than in n8n: Working with APIs is possible, but has some constraints compared to coding-based platforms.
• Learning curve for functions like iterators and routers: While powerful, advanced tools like routers and array handling can be hard to grasp at first.

Pricing Comparison

A great automation platform isn’t helpful if it doesn’t fit your budget. You can compare the pricing models for n8n and Make below.

n8n Pricing

• Free: Open-source, self-hosted
• Cloud Basic: Starts at $20/month
• Cloud Pro: $50+/month
• Enterprise: Custom pricing for advanced support and uptime

Make Pricing

• Free Plan: 1,000 operations/month
• Core: $9/month (10K operations)
• Pro: $16/month (40K operations)
• Teams/Enterprise: Starts at $29/month

Final Verdict: n8n vs. Make

If you’re a developer or part of a technical team that values control, customization, and the ability to self-host, n8n is likely your best bet. Its open-source foundation and JavaScript support make it perfect for building complex, tailored automations.

On the other hand, Make is ideal for users who want to hit the ground running with an intuitive visual builder and a wide range of app integrations. It’s built for speed and simplicity, making automation accessible to teams across marketing, ops, and beyond.

5 Reasons to Choose Knack Instead

While n8n and Make are powerful automation platforms, Knack offers a different kind of solution—one that combines automation with a fully integrated database and app builder. If you’re looking to manage data, workflows, and user access all in one place, Knack might be the better fit.

1. Custom Workflows Without Code

Knack lets you build tailored workflows to match your exact business needs—no coding required. From approvals to status changes and notifications, you can automate key processes directly within your app.

2. Relational Data Power

Unlike n8n or Make, Knack includes a built-in relational database. This allows you to structure and connect data across multiple tables, enabling more complex workflows that are deeply integrated with your data model.

3. Built-In Automations & Logic

With native automation rules, conditional display logic, and scheduled tasks, Knack reduces the need for third-party automation tools. You can trigger actions like sending emails, updating records, or displaying specific content, all within the platform.

4. Scalable and Secure

Knack is built to scale with your business. It offers HIPAA-ready security, enterprise-grade infrastructure, and pricing that isn’t based on user count, making it ideal for growing organizations with diverse needs.

5. Client-Facing Portals

Need to build something external-facing? Knack makes it easy to create branded portals, dashboards, and apps for customers, partners, or other stakeholders, complete with permissions and custom access controls.

Build Better Workflows With Knack

If you’re looking for more than just an automation tool, Knack offers a complete solution for building custom apps, managing data, and streamlining operations. It’s built for teams that want full control without the complexity of coding or the limitations of third-party tools. Start building for free today to see how Knack can simplify your workflows, unify your data, and help you build apps that grow with your business.