About n8n
n8n is an open-source workflow automation tool that’s all about connecting apps and services to create automated processes. What sets it apart from other automation platforms is its extensive list of over 400 integrations, which means you’re not limited to just the usual suspects like Google and Slack. You can hook up pretty much anything, from your favourite CRM to obscure tools that only a handful of people have heard of. This flexibility is a boon for anyone looking to streamline their digital workspace, especially if you're the type who lives and breathes the interconnectedness of apps.
One of the standout features of n8n is its AI agent capabilities, which allow you to create workflows that can think for themselves, thanks to large language model (LLM) integration. In practice, this means you can set up automations that not only execute tasks but also adapt based on the data they encounter. For example, you could create an AI-driven workflow that gathers data from multiple sources, analyses it, and generates reports or alerts when certain conditions are met. This isn’t just about making your life easier; it’s about making your processes smarter.
Pricing is interesting with n8n. The self-hosted option is free, which is fantastic if you have the technical know-how and want full control over your data. The Cloud Starter plan is $24 per month, which is quite reasonable for small teams, but it does limit the number of workflows and executions. The Pro plan at $60 per month ramps things up, offering more features and flexibility. However, it’s worth noting that for larger enterprises, pricing is custom, which can lead to some awkward discussions if you’re not prepared.
In terms of who should use n8n, I’d say it’s perfect for developers and tech-savvy users who want granular control over their automations and are comfortable with a bit of coding. If you’re looking for an out-of-the-box solution that requires minimal setup, you might find n8n a bit overwhelming. This tool isn’t for everyone, particularly those who aren’t interested in diving deep into the technical side of things. If you’re just looking to automate a few simple tasks, you might be better off with something more straightforward, like Zapier or Integromat.
Our Review
Verified 11 May 2026Reviewed by Delv Editorial, Delv Team
I recently dove into n8n, and I must say, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, it’s an open-source workflow automation tool that allows you to connect a staggering number of applications—over 400 to be precise. That’s a dream for anyone who’s juggling multiple tools. I found that setting up even complex workflows can be accomplished with their drag-and-drop interface, but be prepared to roll up your sleeves if you want to dive deep into the more advanced features, particularly those involving AI agents.
The AI capabilities of n8n are what truly excited me. Imagine creating workflows that don’t just follow a set path but can actually adapt based on the data they encounter. For instance, I set up a workflow that pulled data from a sales platform and generated a report, adjusting parameters based on previous sales trends. It was a bit of a revelation to see the workflow evolve based on the information it processed. However, I did find that the documentation could be overwhelming at times—often I had to sift through a lot of technical jargon to find the information I needed.
Where n8n stumbles a bit is its learning curve. If you’re not comfortable with coding, you might find yourself feeling lost, especially if you venture into custom code nodes. While the community is supportive, I can see casual users getting frustrated. The pricing structure is also something to consider—while the self-hosted option is free, the cloud services can add up quickly if you need more functionality as your team grows.
In comparison to competitors like Zapier and Integromat, n8n offers greater flexibility but at the cost of ease of use. If you need a straightforward solution, those might be better bets. But for developers and technically savvy users looking for something that provides serious power and customisation, n8n is a worthy contender. Just be prepared to invest some time in learning the ropes.
Overall, I would recommend n8n to those who have a technical background and want to create intricate, adaptive workflows. If you’re looking for something simple and intuitive, though, you might want to look elsewhere. The pricing is fair for what you get, especially if you opt for the free self-hosted version, but be mindful of the potential for costs to rise as you scale up.
Getting started with n8n
With n8n, you can automate workflows by connecting various apps and services, allowing you to save time and streamline your processes. After reading this guide, you'll be able to create your first automation workflow in just a few minutes.
Step 1: Sign up and set up
Step 2: Your first workflow
Step 3: Get better results
Pro tip
Take advantage of the "Trigger" nodes to start workflows automatically based on events, like receiving an email or when a new row is added to a spreadsheet. This saves you from manual initiation.
Common mistake to avoid
Avoid skipping the configuration of node settings. Many users miss this step, leading to workflows that don’t perform as expected. Always double-check each node’s configuration before executing the workflow.
The Verdict
n8n is a powerful tool for those who have the technical skills and need for complex automation workflows. It's best suited for developers and tech-savvy users who want extensive customisation options. If you're simply looking to automate a few basic tasks without much hassle, you might want to consider an alternative.
Best For
- Developers who need granular control over their automation processes.
- Small to medium businesses looking for a cost-effective way to connect various applications.
- Tech-savvy marketers wanting to implement adaptive workflows based on customer data.
- Freelancers automating repetitive tasks across multiple platforms.
At a Glance
n8n is a powerful open-source workflow automation tool that allows you to connect over 400 apps and services with ease. Its standout AI agent capabilities make workflows smarter, adapting to data in real-time, but be prepared for a bit of a learning curve if you're not technically inclined.
Strengths
- +The extensive range of over 400 integrations means you can connect virtually any app you need, which is a major plus for those with diverse toolsets.
- +The self-hosted option is completely free, giving users full control over their data and allowing for extensive customisation without worrying about subscription fees.
- +AI agent capabilities are genuinely impressive, enabling workflows that can adapt based on incoming data, making automation not just simpler but also smarter.
- +The ability to write custom code nodes allows for tailored workflows, which can be a lifesaver if you have specific needs that standard integrations can't fulfil.
- +The community around n8n is active and supportive, offering a wealth of resources and help for new users, which can ease the onboarding process.
- +User-friendly interface despite the complexity, allowing even less tech-savvy individuals to get started with automations without feeling completely lost.
Limitations
- -The learning curve can be steep for those who aren't comfortable with coding or technical concepts, which may deter casual users looking for quick fixes.
- -Limited functionality on the free self-hosted version, especially if you're working on complex workflows, as you might miss out on certain advanced features.
- -The Cloud Starter plan's limitations on workflows and executions can be frustrating for small teams that quickly outgrow the basic tier.
- -Custom pricing for enterprise solutions can lead to uncertainty and potential budget overruns if you’re not cautious during negotiations.
- -The documentation, while comprehensive, can occasionally feel overwhelming and may not always provide clear guidance for specific use cases.
Use Cases
- -Developers creating intricate workflows that connect various APIs and services without needing to rely on third-party platforms.
- -Businesses looking to automate data collection and reporting from multiple sources to enhance decision-making processes.
- -Marketing teams using AI agents to analyse customer data and generate personalised email campaigns based on user behaviour.
- -Project managers who need to automate task assignments and reminders across different tools like Trello and Asana.
- -Freelancers automating repetitive tasks such as client onboarding, invoicing, and follow-up emails to save time.
