n8n

n8n is an open source workflow automation platform that has built a strong following among technically capable teams who want the power of tools like Zapier and Make.com but with the option to self-host for complete data control and no per-execution pricing constraints.

The self-hosted deployment model is n8n's primary differentiator. By running n8n on their own infrastructure, teams can create unlimited workflow executions with no per-use cost, keep all data within their own environment, and customise the platform without restrictions. For organisations with high automation volume or strict data handling requirements, self-hosting removes the cost and privacy concerns of cloud-based automation platforms.

The workflow builder uses a visual canvas similar to Make.com, with nodes representing application integrations and data operations. n8n has integrations with 400+ apps and supports custom HTTP requests to any API, which extends its connectivity to virtually any service with a web API.

AI agent capabilities, added alongside standard automation, allow building AI-powered workflows using LLM APIs from OpenAI, Anthropic, and others. An AI agent in n8n can receive input, reason about it using an AI model, use tools (web search, calculator, API calls), and take actions based on the outcome. This enables sophisticated AI workflows that combine language understanding with automation actions.

The technical knowledge required to set up and maintain a self-hosted n8n instance is a meaningful barrier. Teams without technical staff comfortable managing server infrastructure and the n8n platform will find the managed cloud service more practical, which removes the cost and privacy advantages of self-hosting.