Pipedream
Raycast
| Feature | Pipedream | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Free / from $29/mo | Free / from $8/mo |
| Free Plan | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Rating | 4.5 / 5 | 4.8 / 5 |
| Best For | developers, devops-engineers, technical-founders, api-integrators | mac-developers, power-users, productivity-enthusiasts, keyboard-driven-workflows |
| Founded | 2018 | 2020 |
| Code Steps | ✓ | ✗ |
| Pre Built Triggers | ✓ | ✗ |
| Http Requests | ✓ | ✗ |
| Data Stores | ✓ | ✗ |
| Cron Schedules | ✓ | ✗ |
| Event Sources | ✓ | ✗ |
| Launcher | ✗ | ✓ |
| Extensions | ✗ | ✓ |
| Ai Chat | ✗ | ✓ |
| Window Management | ✗ | ✓ |
| Clipboard History | ✗ | ✓ |
| Snippets | ✗ | ✓ |
| Quicklinks | ✗ | ✓ |
✓ 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
✓ Raycast Pros
- Incredibly fast keyboard-driven launcher
- Rich extension store with 1000+ community extensions
- Built-in AI chat with multiple models (GPT-4, Claude)
- Window management and clipboard history included
✗ Raycast Cons
- macOS only (no Windows or Linux support)
- AI features require Pro subscription
- Some extensions less polished than native apps
The Verdict
Pipedream is built for developers and devops engineers, with a focus on code-steps and pre-built-triggers. Raycast targets mac developers and power users and leads with launcher and extensions.
On pricing, Raycast is the clear winner for budget-conscious users — starting at $8/mo compared to $29/mo for Pipedream. That $21/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, Raycast offers broader built-in capabilities (7 features vs 6), while Pipedream takes a more focused approach — which can mean a simpler, faster onboarding experience.
Bottom line: Raycast has a slight overall edge — but if write real code (node/python) in workflows matters most to you, Pipedream may still be the right call.