n8n vs Make (Integromat): Which Is Better for AI Workflow Automation? (2026)

Short answer: n8n is open-source and self-hostable, with native code nodes and AI/agent building blocks — the better pick for developers building AI-heavy automations who want control and no per-task pricing. Make (formerly Integromat) is a polished, hosted visual platform with a gentle learning curve and many connectors — better for teams who want a managed tool and a clean visual builder. For AI pipelines with custom logic, n8n; for managed visual automation, Make.

At a glance

n8nMake

SourceOpen-source, self-hostHosted SaaS AI nodesNative (LLM, agents, vectors)Connectors + modules Custom codeYes (JS/Python nodes)Limited PricingFree self-hostPer-operation Best forDev-built AI workflowsManaged visual flows

How they differ

n8n has leaned hard into AI: nodes for LLM calls, agents, and vector stores, plus the freedom to drop into code when a step needs custom logic. Self-hosting means your data stays in-house and you skip per-task fees — attractive for production AI automations.

Make is a refined hosted experience: a strong visual canvas, lots of app connectors, and an approachable learning curve. It's great when you want a managed tool and don't need to self-host or write much code.

For the three-way view including Zapier, see n8n vs Zapier vs Make; for AI-task walkthroughs, AI 办公自动化.

How to choose

AI workflows with custom code, self-hosted, no per-task fees? n8n.

Managed, visual, easy onboarding for a team? Make.

Data must stay in-house? n8n (self-host).

Mostly connecting SaaS apps, minimal AI logic? Make (or Zapier).

FAQ

Which is better for LLM/agent steps? n8n, with native AI nodes and code flexibility. Which is easier to learn? Make, with its polished visual builder. Which avoids per-task pricing? Self-hosted n8n.

Verdict

For developer-built AI automations where control, custom code, and self-hosting matter, n8n is the stronger fit and avoids per-operation costs. For teams who want a clean, managed visual builder with broad connectors, Make is the smoother experience. Decide by how much custom AI logic you need versus how much you value a hosted, no-ops tool.

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*Last updated: June 2026. Verify features and pricing on the n8n and Make sites.*