comparison
Zapier vs Make vs n8n for small business
Choose between simple app automation, visual scenario building, and self-hostable workflow orchestration.
Decision rule
Choose the tool that your team can maintain weekly. Automation power is less useful than clear ownership, visible errors, and a review step.
Tools in this decision
ZapierMaken8n
Best for
- Simple client handoffs
- Visual branching
- Technical control
Trade-offs
- Zapier is easiest to start
- Make gives more visual control
- n8n needs more technical ownership