About Tool
n8n (short for “nodemation”) is a workflow automation platform built for users who want more control than typical no-code tools provide. It allows you to design automations using a visual, node-based editor while still giving you the freedom to add custom logic, scripts, and API calls when needed. This balance makes n8n suitable for both simple task automation and complex system orchestration. One of its biggest advantages is the ability to self-host, which gives teams full control over their data, privacy, and operating costs. With hundreds of integrations and support for conditional logic, loops, error handling, and AI workflows, n8n is widely adopted by developers, startups, and growing businesses that want scalable automation without vendor lock-in.
Key Features
- Visual Workflow Builder – Create automations using a drag-and-drop interface with connected nodes representing each action.
- Open-Source Flexibility – Source-available platform that can be customized and self-hosted without restrictions.
- Extensive Integrations – Connect with hundreds of apps, databases, CRMs, and APIs out of the box.
- Custom Code Support – Add JavaScript or API requests inside workflows for advanced automation needs.
- Advanced Logic Controls – Use conditions, branching, loops, and error handling to build smart workflows.
- Self-Hosting Option – Deploy on your own server for full data ownership and cost control.
- Execution-Based Pricing – Cloud plans charge per workflow execution, not per user or per step.
- AI Workflow Ready – Integrate AI models and data processing into automations easily.
Pros
- Highly customizable for technical and non-technical users
- No vendor lock-in due to self-hosting capability
- Predictable pricing model compared to step-based tools
- Powerful logic handling for complex workflows
- Large and active community support
Cons
- Slight learning curve for beginners unfamiliar with automation logic
- Self-hosting requires server knowledge and maintenance
- Cloud plans may feel limited for very high-volume tasks on lower tiers
Pricing
n8n follows a Freemium + Paid Cloud model.
| Plan | Type | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community Edition | Free | $0 | Self-hosted version with full core features |
| Starter (Cloud) | Paid | ~$20/month | Limited executions, ideal for individuals |
| Pro (Cloud) | Paid | ~$50/month | Higher executions, team features |
| Business (Cloud) | Paid | ~$800/month | Enterprise security and large execution limits |
| Enterprise | Paid | Custom | Advanced support, custom limits, SLA |
FAQs
Q1: Is n8n completely free to use?
Yes, you can self-host the community edition for free with access to core features.
Q2: Do I need coding skills to use n8n?
Basic workflows require no coding, but advanced automations benefit from JavaScript knowledge.
Q3: How is n8n different from Zapier or Make?
n8n offers deeper customization, self-hosting, and execution-based pricing instead of step-based billing.
Q4: Can n8n handle complex workflows?
Yes, it supports branching, loops, conditional paths, and custom API logic.
Q5: Who should use n8n?
Startups, developers, agencies, and businesses needing flexible and scalable automation.
Published on: January 30, 2026
