n8n vs Activepieces
Which automation & integration tool is right for you? Compare features, pricing, and user reviews to make the best choice.
n8n
Technical teams with long, multi-step workflows or strict data rules who want per-run pricing and the option to self-host.
Activepieces
Teams that want an open-source, self-hostable Make alternative with flat, predictable pricing for multi-step workflows.
Side by side
| n8n | Activepieces | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Free self-hosted Community Edition; cloud from $20/month (Starter, annual) | Free (1,000 credits); paid from $16/month (Plus, annual) |
| G2 Rating | 4.7 (319 reviews) | 4.8 (142 reviews) |
| Best For | Technical teams with long, multi-step workflows or strict data rules who want per-run pricing and the option to self-host. | Teams that want an open-source, self-hostable Make alternative with flat, predictable pricing for multi-step workflows. |
Pros and cons
n8n
Pros
- Long workflows cost the same as short ones (per-execution billing)
- Free self-hosted edition for internal use
- Strong AI agent and MCP support
- Unlimited users and workflows on every plan
Cons
- Sustainable Use License is not OSI open source and limits commercial redistribution
- Cloud Starter allows only 2,500 executions and 5 concurrent runs
- Business ($800/month, annual) is self-hosted only
- Steeper learning curve for non-technical users
Activepieces
Pros
- Truly open-source MIT core you can self-host
- Per-run billing keeps long workflows cheap
- Flat $20 or $200 monthly plans are easy to budget
- AI agents and MCP built in
Cons
- Fewer integrations than Make (760+ versus 3,500+)
- AI steps cost 2 to 20 credits unless you bring your own keys
- SSO needs the $200 Team plan; SCIM and audit logs need Ultimate
Related comparisons
Make alternatives
Pick n8n if you have a technical builder and long workflows, since it bills per run instead of per step. Pick Zapier if your builders aren't technical, or Activepieces if you want an open-source core with flat pricing.
Sarah ChenUpdated October 2026n8n alternatives
Stay with n8n if you have technical builders and its license fits internal use. Pick Activepieces if you need a true open-source license, or Zapier if your builders are not technical.
Sarah ChenUpdated October 2026Zapier alternatives
Stay with Zapier if you want the most app connections and the easiest builder. Switch to Make for better value on complex workflows, or n8n if you have technical skills and want per-run pricing or self-hosting.
Sarah ChenUpdated October 2026