Activepieces Open source
A workflow automation tool with a self-hosted community edition and a cloud version.
- Best for
- No-code automations that you can host yourself.
- Limits to know
- The cloud free tier has monthly limits. Check current terms.
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Free alternatives to n8n
n8n: Workflow automation. Free to self-host, with a paid cloud version. Here are 4 free or open-source options.
| Tool | Type | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Activepieces | Open source | No-code automations that you can host yourself. |
| Windmill | Open source | Developers who want to write scripts and automations in code. |
| Node-RED | Open source | Hobbyists and developers automating things on their own machine or server. |
| Make | Free tier | Simple automations with no hosting. |
The alternatives in detail
Windmill Open source
A platform for scripts and workflows, with a free self-hosted community edition.
- Best for
- Developers who want to write scripts and automations in code.
- Limits to know
- More technical than most no-code tools, and some features are in paid editions.
Node-RED Open source
A visual tool for wiring together devices, APIs and online services.
- Best for
- Hobbyists and developers automating things on their own machine or server.
- Limits to know
- You host and maintain it, and the interface is aimed at technical users.
Make Free tier
A cloud automation tool with a visual builder and a free plan.
- Best for
- Simple automations with no hosting.
- Limits to know
- Cloud only. The free plan has monthly operation limits. Check current terms.
When is n8n still worth paying for?
A free option is often enough, but not always. If you depend on specific features, file compatibility or support, check the limits above first. Visit n8n to compare.