n8n vs Microsoft Power Automate
Which automation & integration tool is right for you? Compare features, pricing, and user reviews to make the best choice.
n8n
Developers and technical operations teams that run long or high-volume workflows, build AI agents, or need to self-host for data control.
Microsoft Power Automate
Organizations standardized on Microsoft 365 and Dynamics 365, and teams that need desktop RPA alongside cloud automation.
Side by side
| n8n | Microsoft Power Automate | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Free self-hosted; cloud from $20/month (billed annually) | Free license; Premium $15/user/month (paid yearly) |
| G2 Rating | 4.7 (319 reviews) | 4.4 (1,096 reviews) |
| Best For | Developers and technical operations teams that run long or high-volume workflows, build AI agents, or need to self-host for data control. | Organizations standardized on Microsoft 365 and Dynamics 365, and teams that need desktop RPA alongside cloud automation. |
Pros and cons
n8n
Pros
- Per-run billing keeps complex workflows predictable
- Free self-hosted Community Edition
- Strong developer tools: code, webhooks, API and CLI
- Unlimited users on every plan
Cons
- Harder for non-technical users
- Self-hosting means you own uptime, updates and security
- Big price jump to Business, which is self-hosted only
- Sustainable Use License is more restrictive than standard open source
Microsoft Power Automate
Pros
- Standard connectors often included with Microsoft 365
- Strongest desktop RPA option in this comparison
- Request-based limits instead of per-action billing
- Enterprise admin and managed environments
Cons
- Complex licensing with seeded, premium and capacity licenses
- Many non-Microsoft apps need premium connectors
- Less friendly builder for casual users than Zapier
- Unattended bots cost $150 or more per month each
Related comparisons
n8n 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