Make vs n8n is a closer contest than most automation comparisons, because both use a visual canvas, both handle complex branching, and both cost far less than Zapier. The differences that matter are pricing structure, whether you can self-host, and how each handles AI agent workflows. For a small business the decision usually comes down to one question: is anyone here willing to run a server?
TL;DR — Quick answer
Make is the more polished managed platform; n8n is cheaper at scale, self-hostable, and better for AI agent workflows. Pricing structure decides it for most small businesses.
Both Make and n8n are visual workflow automation platforms aimed at users who have outgrown Zapier's task pricing or its limits on branching logic. They occupy similar capability territory, so the choice hinges on commercial and operational differences rather than on what each can build.
Make if you want polish and zero infrastructure. n8n if cost at scale, self-hosting or AI agent workflows matter.
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