Key Differences

Deployment Model

n8n: Self-hosted (Docker, open-source) or cloud-hosted — you control your data. Zapier: Cloud-only SaaS (enterprise BYOM option exists). For companies with data residency requirements or on-premises mandates, n8n is often required. For managed simplicity where ops overhead is a constraint, Zapier wins on ease.

Integrations & Extensibility

Zapier: 9,000+ app integrations, no-code/low-code, MCP support for Claude/ChatGPT. n8n: 450+ native integrations, JavaScript/Python anywhere in workflows, local AI models. Zapier's breadth is overwhelming; n8n's depth is powerful. For "connect to our enterprise CRM," Zapier likely has it. For "write custom Python logic in the workflow," n8n can.

Pricing & Economics at Scale

n8n: Free tier (generous), self-hosted free forever, Pro ~$25/month per seat. Zapier: Free tier (limited), $10-20/month starter, enterprise custom. At scale with 50+ workflows, n8n is significantly cheaper. For a few simple automations, Zapier's ease of setup justifies the cost difference.

Best For

• n8n: Technical teams, on-premises requirements, cost-conscious orgs at scale, complex workflow logic requiring custom code
• Zapier: Business teams, governed AI access with audit trails, maximum app ecosystem coverage, quick automation with minimal setup

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I self-host Zapier?

No, Zapier is cloud-only (though an enterprise BYOM option exists for very large accounts). If self-hosting is a hard requirement, n8n is your only choice between these two.

Which is more secure for sensitive data?

n8n on-premises gives you maximum data control since nothing leaves your infrastructure. Zapier is SOC 2 and GDPR compliant — enterprise-grade cloud security. The "more secure" answer depends on your threat model: external compliance vs. internal control.

Does n8n have cloud hosting?

Yes, n8n offers optional managed cloud hosting as an alternative to self-hosting. This gives you the flexibility of n8n's workflow engine without the operational overhead of managing your own instance.