Zapier vs Relay.app: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Zapier and Relay.app 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Zapier
Automate workflows across 8,000+ apps without code
Best for you if:
- • No-code automation connecting 8,000+ apps via multi-step Zaps
- • Free tier with 100 tasks/month, paid plans offer more tasks
Relay.app
Automate tasks and connect apps with AI-powered workflows
Best for you if:
- • Automates workflows across multiple apps with AI-powered actions
- • Supports sequences, tables, and MCP servers for advanced automation
| At a Glance |  Zapier |  Relay.app |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Workflow Automation | Workflow Automation |
Rating | 4.1/5 | 4.9/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Zapier or Relay.app?
Choose Zapier if
Automate workflows across 8,000+ apps without code
- Largest app ecosystem (8,000+ integrations)
- Genuinely easy for non-technical users
- Generous free tier (100 tasks/month)
Choose Relay.app if
Automate tasks and connect apps with AI-powered workflows
- Automates repetitive tasks to save time and reduce errors
- Integrates with many popular apps and services
- AI capabilities enhance automation intelligence
| Feature | Zapier | Relay.app |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.1/5 2,146 reviews | ★4.9/5 89 reviews |
| Categories | Workflow AutomationNo-Code | Workflow AutomationAutomation |
In-Depth Analysis
Zapier
Automate workflows across 8,000+ apps without code
Zapier is the most expensive workflow automation tool by a wide margin.
Watch out
Every action step counts as a task -- a 5-step Zap uses 4 tasks per run (trigger is free but every action counts)
Strengths
- +Largest app ecosystem (8,000+ integrations)
- +Genuinely easy for non-technical users
- +Generous free tier (100 tasks/month)
- +Reliable uptime and execution
- +AI features included in all plans
Weaknesses
- -Task-based pricing gets expensive at scale
- -Free plan limited to single-step Zaps
- -Some triggers have 1-15 min polling delay
- -Complex logic requires higher-tier plans
- -No self-hosted option
Key features
Relay.app
Automate tasks and connect apps with AI-powered workflows
Strengths
- +Automates repetitive tasks to save time and reduce errors
- +Integrates with many popular apps and services
- +AI capabilities enhance automation intelligence
Weaknesses
- -Shutting down, making it unsuitable for long-term use
- -Limited to integrations supported by the platform
Key features
Pricing: Zapier vs Relay.app
| Plan | Zapier | Relay.app |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0 Free | N/A |
| Tier 2 | $19.99 Professional | N/A |
| Tier 3 | $69 Team | N/A |
| Tier 4 | Custom Enterprise | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Zapier pricing and Relay.app pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Zapier
Want the highest-rated option?
Zapier: 4.1/5 (2,146 reviews). Relay.app: 4.9/5 (89 reviews).
Go with: Relay.app
Value user reviews?
Zapier: 2,146 reviews (4.1/5). Relay.app: 89 reviews (4.9/5).
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?
Both are workflow automation tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Relay.app is rated higher: 4.9/5 vs 4.1/5.
Key Takeaways
Zapier
- Larger review base (2,146 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Relay.app
- Higher user rating: 4.9/5 vs 4.1/5
The Bottom Line
Zapier is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zapier or Relay.app better?
Zapier is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Zapier and Relay.app used for?
Zapier: Automate workflows across 8,000+ apps without code. Relay.app: Automate tasks and connect apps with AI-powered workflows.
What does Zapier cost vs Relay.app?
Zapier is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Relay.app is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.