Both are automation tools. n8n has the higher Solthar Score, 90 to 87. n8n is free to start, with paid plans; Zapier is free to start, with paid plans.
| n8n | Zapier | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Automation · Agents | Automation · Agents |
| Pricing | Freemium | Freemium |
| Free trial | Yes | Yes |
| Solthar Score | 90/100 | 87/100 |
n8n: what it does
Open-source workflow automation with native AI agent nodes. Self-host everything. n8n is free to start, with paid plans, with a free trial. Solthar Score: 90/100.
Key features
- AI agent nodes
- 500+ integrations
- Self-hosting
Strengths
- Open source
- Infinitely flexible
Trade-offs
- Learning curve
Zapier: what it does
Connect 7,000+ apps and let AI agents run the busywork between them automatically. Zapier is free to start, with paid plans, with a free trial. Solthar Score: 87/100.
Key features
- 7,000+ integrations
- AI agents
- Multi-step Zaps
Strengths
- Connects everything
- No code needed
Trade-offs
- Task limits add up
Which should you choose?
Choose n8n if open source matters most to you. Choose Zapier if connects everything matters more. If you only try one, n8n scores higher overall.