n8n
Self-hostable workflow automation with code flexibility, fair-code licensed.
What is n8n?
n8n is a workflow automation platform with a node-based visual editor that can be self-hosted or used in the cloud. Unlike pure no-code tools, it allows JavaScript and Python code nodes for complex logic while keeping the UI accessible. The fair-code license permits free self-hosting for internal use but restricts reselling.
Workflow automation platforms that connect business apps and reduce repetitive manual handoffs.
See the full Automation guide to compare more tools, buyer criteria, and related workflows.
Use cases to evaluate
ETL pipelines with custom JavaScript transformations between API calls
Webhook-driven CI/CD orchestration with conditional branching logic
GDPR-compliant data processing kept entirely on-premises
Multi-step approval workflows mixing API calls and human-in-the-loop nodes
Fit to evaluate
Technical product managers building internal automation
DevOps and SRE teams creating custom integration pipelines
Privacy-conscious organizations requiring data residency
Agencies automating client projects without per-client SaaS fees
Business fit
Right for you if you need complex automations with custom code and want to avoid per-execution pricing surprises. Skip if you lack DevOps capacity for self-hosting or require 7,000+ pre-built connectors out of the box. Best for technical teams wanting Zapier-like UX with full control over data and runtime.
How to evaluate n8n
Use this category when disconnected systems, missed follow-up, or manual handoffs are slowing operations.
Confirm the exact workflow
Map n8n to one concrete workflow first, such as etl pipelines with custom javascript transformations between api calls. Avoid buying before the owner, trigger, output, and success metric are clear.
Check category fit
Map the trigger, action, owner, and failure path before choosing a tool.
Compare practical alternatives
Shortlist n8n against Zapier, Make.com, Relay.app so the decision is based on fit, effort, and workflow ownership rather than brand recognition alone.
Validate cost and rollout effort
Cloud free tier with 5 active workflows. Pro at EUR 24/month for unlimited workflows and 2,500 executions. Team at EUR 60/month with shared credentials and RBAC. Enterprise cloud is custom-priced. Self-hosted Community edition is free forever for internal use under fair-code license; Enterprise self-hosted starts around EUR 2,000/month with SSO, audit logs, and priority support. Also confirm implementation time, support needs, and whether the medium setup matches your team.
Compare n8n with alternatives
Use this quick comparison before booking demos or moving data into a new system.
| Primary workflow | ETL pipelines with custom JavaScript transformations between API calls, Webhook-driven CI/CD orchestration with conditional branching logic |
|---|---|
| Best-fit team | Technical product managers building internal automation, DevOps and SRE teams creating custom integration pipelines |
| Implementation effort | Medium setup and maintenance profile |
| Pricing check | Free plan + paid plans |
| Closest alternatives | ZapierMake.comRelay.appWorkato |
n8n pricing
| Model | Free plan + paid plans |
|---|---|
| Snapshot | Cloud free tier with 5 active workflows. Pro at EUR 24/month for unlimited workflows and 2,500 executions. Team at EUR 60/month with shared credentials and RBAC. Enterprise cloud is custom-priced. Self-hosted Community edition is free forever for internal use under fair-code license; Enterprise self-hosted starts around EUR 2,000/month with SSO, audit logs, and priority support. |
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Common questions about n8n
What is n8n?
n8n is a workflow automation platform with a node-based visual editor that can be self-hosted or used in the cloud. Unlike pure no-code tools, it allows JavaScript and Python code nodes for complex logic while keeping the UI accessible. The fair-code license permits free self-hosting for internal use but restricts reselling.
What is n8n used for?
Common use cases: ETL pipelines with custom JavaScript transformations between API calls; Webhook-driven CI/CD orchestration with conditional branching logic; GDPR-compliant data processing kept entirely on-premises; Multi-step approval workflows mixing API calls and human-in-the-loop nodes.
How much does n8n cost?
Cloud free tier with 5 active workflows. Pro at EUR 24/month for unlimited workflows and 2,500 executions. Team at EUR 60/month with shared credentials and RBAC. Enterprise cloud is custom-priced. Self-hosted Community edition is free forever for internal use under fair-code license; Enterprise self-hosted starts around EUR 2,000/month with SSO, audit logs, and priority support.
Who is n8n best for?
n8n fits Technical product managers building internal automation, DevOps and SRE teams creating custom integration pipelines, Privacy-conscious organizations requiring data residency, Agencies automating client projects without per-client SaaS fees. Right for you if you need complex automations with custom code and want to avoid per-execution pricing surprises. Skip if you lack DevOps capacity for self-hosting or require 7,000+ pre-built connectors out of the box. Best for technical teams wanting Zapier-like UX with full control over data and runtime.
What are alternatives to n8n?
Common alternatives to n8n include Zapier, Make.com, Relay.app, Workato, Lindy, Gumloop.