n8n vs Zapier: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between n8n and Zapier comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
n8n
Workflow automation for technical teams
Best for you if:
- • You need low-code backend features specifically
- • Open-source Zapier alternative
- • Self-host for full control
Zapier
Automate your work
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.6/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Workflow automation platform
- • 6,000+ app integrations
| At a Glance |  n8n |  Zapier |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Low-Code Backend | API Tools |
Rating | 86/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | n8n | Zapier |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Low-Code BackendAutomation | API ToolsAutomation |
How n8n and Zapier Compare
n8n
Workflow automation for technical teams
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Zapier
Automate your work
Free tier available · 90/100 score
n8n is a low-code backend tool. Zapier is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: n8n
Want the highest-rated option?
n8n: 86/100. Zapier: 90/100.
Go with: Zapier
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Zapier
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
n8n is a low-code backend tool. Zapier is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Zapier scores higher: 90/100 vs 86/100.
Key Takeaways
Zapier
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 86
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
n8n
- Better fit for low-code backend
The Bottom Line
Zapier (90/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is n8n or Zapier better?
Zapier scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are n8n and Zapier used for?
n8n: Workflow automation for technical teams. Zapier: Automate your work.
What does n8n cost vs Zapier?
n8n is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Zapier is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.