n8n
Pipedream
| Feature | n8n | Pipedream |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Free / from $24/mo | Free / from $29/mo |
| Free Plan | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Rating | 4.6 / 5 | 4.5 / 5 |
| Best For | developers, technical-teams, agencies, cost-conscious-teams, ai-builders | developers, devops-engineers, technical-founders, api-integrators |
| Founded | 2019 | 2018 |
| Workflows | ✓ | ✗ |
| Self Hosting | ✓ | ✗ |
| Code Nodes | ✓ | ✗ |
| Webhooks | ✓ | ✗ |
| Ai Agents | ✓ | ✗ |
| Api | ✓ | ✗ |
| Docker | ✓ | ✗ |
| Code Steps | ✗ | ✓ |
| Pre Built Triggers | ✗ | ✓ |
| Http Requests | ✗ | ✓ |
| Data Stores | ✗ | ✓ |
| Cron Schedules | ✗ | ✓ |
| Event Sources | ✗ | ✓ |
✓ n8n Pros
- Free self-hosting (forever)
- Full JavaScript/Python in every node
- AI agent workflow builder
- No per-task pricing when self-hosted
✗ n8n Cons
- Requires technical setup for self-hosting
- 400+ integrations vs Zapier's 7,000+
- Steeper learning curve than Zapier or Make
✓ Pipedream Pros
- Write real code (Node/Python) in workflows
- Generous free tier
- 1000+ pre-built integrations
- Great for developer-led automation
✗ Pipedream Cons
- Requires coding knowledge for advanced use
- UI less visual than Zapier
- Debugging can be challenging
The Verdict
n8n is built for developers and technical teams, with a focus on workflows and self-hosting. Pipedream targets developers and devops engineers and leads with code-steps and pre-built-triggers.
On pricing, n8n is the clear winner for budget-conscious users — starting at $24/mo compared to $29/mo for Pipedream. That $5/mo difference adds up quickly for growing teams.
Both offer free plans, so you can test each with your real workflow before committing to a subscription.
Feature-wise, n8n offers broader built-in capabilities (7 features vs 6), while Pipedream takes a more focused approach — which can mean a simpler, faster onboarding experience.
Both tools are a solid fit for developers — in those cases, the decision often comes down to workflow style and how your team prefers to organize work.
This is a genuinely close comparison. If you can, sign up for both free trials (where available) and run a one-week test with your actual team tasks before deciding.
