Zapier vs n8n: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Zapier and n8n 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:
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
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
| At a Glance |  Zapier |  n8n |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | API Tools | Low-Code Backend |
Rating | 90/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Zapier | n8n |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 90 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | API ToolsAutomation | Low-Code BackendAutomation |
How Zapier and n8n Compare
Zapier
Automate your work
Free tier available · 90/100 score
n8n
Workflow automation for technical teams
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Zapier is a api tools tool. n8n is in low-code backend.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Zapier
Want the highest-rated option?
Zapier: 90/100. n8n: 86/100.
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?
Zapier is a api tools tool. n8n is in low-code backend. 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 Zapier or n8n better?
Zapier scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Zapier and n8n used for?
Zapier: Automate your work. n8n: Workflow automation for technical teams.
What does Zapier cost vs n8n?
Zapier is freemium (free tier + paid plans). n8n is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.