n8n (say “node-n”) is strong & bends. It stands out in the full auto space. It is not just code-free. n8n lets you host on your own.

Introduction

Now, we must cut dull tasks. Make hard things flow well. n8n is new & big for this. It’s good for fast work flows. It fits both easy no-code & full-code needs. You can tie apps, move data & run big tasks. No need for lots of code.

It came in 2019. It’s open & you can host it. It wins on hold & safe data. Its look is clear. Use “nodes” to drop & drag. Build from easy to AI smart flows. It has what you need to run any digital job.

It’s made for the “AI age.” Fits with AI tools well. You can add text make, data checks, & smart picks to flows. For devs, firms, or just one man. n8n is strong, wide, & gives lots for your money.

Low-Code

You Can Host

Work Flow Automation

AI-Powered

Clear Look

Review

n8n (say “node-n”) is strong & bends. It stands out in the full auto space. It is not just code-free. n8n lets you host on your own. You keep full hold of your data & set-up. More safe for those who like their data safe. You can build step-by-step flows. Link tons of apps & tools.

n8n is both easy & deep. Its look is easy to use. But you can add own code. Use JavaScript or Python. Hook to any API. Make own nodes too. It’s for tech folks who want full hold. But others can learn it, too. It works well with AI tools. It’s top for AI smart tasks.

You need some tech know-how to start. Big flows might look too full. But n8n is strong, good in price, & has many tools. It’s good for all who want to build safe, wide, & own auto jobs.

Features

Node-Based Look

Make wide autos by drop & drag "nodes".

Many Hooks (500+)

Join to lots of web tools, apps & APIs.

Code Use (JavaScript/Python)

Lets you write own code in nodes for tough runs & niche APIs.

Host on Your Own & Hold Data

Host it to keep full data hold & more.

AI Hooks

fits with AI tools for smart tasks like text make & wise chat help.

Logs & Trouble Fix

Good tools for check, logs, & fix to make sure flows work well & are easy to fix.

Best Suited for

Devs & Tech Folks

Want deep hold, own code, & fit with own tools.

One Worker & Small Boss

Cut the same client stuff, get leads, & sync data well.

Small to Mid Firms

Stream tasks, make work funnels, & help clients more.

Big Firms with Data Needs

Firms that must hold their data & fit tough rules.

AI Fans & Users

For those who add AI in tasks or try AI flows.

Teams Who Want to Save

Firms that dodge per-task costs for wide flows.

Strengths

Fits own code, API calls, & hosting.

Fits well with AI for smart autos.

Stop pay when you host, save more money.

Joins to tons of apps & any API.

Weakness

Tougher than just no-code tools.

Set up & keep safe needs IT know-how.

Start With n8n: Easy Steps

Start with n8n to get more choice, pick cloud ease or self-run strong hold.

Step 1: Pick How to Set Up

You can join n8n’s Cloud for an easy start or choose the Community Edition to self-run. Self-run needs some tech set up (like Docker, VPS). The Cloud gets you up fast.

Step 2: Look at the Space

Once in (or after you set up self-run), you’ll see the visual flow editor. Get used to the canvas, the node area on the left (has triggers, actions, & works), & the run area below.

Step 3: Make your first flow

Start by adding a “Trigger” node (like Webhook, Cron, or app-type like “New Email in Gmail”). Then, link “Action” nodes (like “Send Slack Note,” “Add Row to Google Sheet”) to make a simple run. Use the test key to run each node & see the flow.

Step 4: Add Rules & Changes

As you feel more sure, add “Function” nodes for custom code, “IF” nodes for if-this-then-that, or “Set” nodes to change data end to end. Try stuff to use data from past nodes in new ways.

Step 5: Test, Find Faults, & Start

Test your flow well with sample data or true triggers. Use the fault-find tools, like run logs & data play, to see & fix faults. Once all good, set your flow to run on its own.

Step 6: Try More & Join Others

Go for more, like custom nodes, AI links, or outside API calls. Join the n8n forums or look at their full how-to docs to know best ways & get help for tough cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is n8n?

A: n8n is an open, low-code flow auto group that lets users link many apps & sites to auto tasks & build big data flows with a visual, node-based space. It can be self-run or used as a cloud help.

Q: Is n8n free to use?

A: Yes, n8n has a free Community Edition that you can self-run, lets you run as many flows & runs as you want with only your hosting costs.

Q: What makes n8n stand out from Zapier or Make?

A: n8n is different as it is open & you can self-run it, gives you more rule over your data & saves on price. It also has more ways for custom code & deep AI mix, fits more to tech users who need big custom compared to the more new user-type Zapier or Make.

Pricing

n8n has a plan that bends to fit your needs, with a free self-run choice & some cloud plans.

Community Edition (Self-Run)

$0/month

Users can get & self-run n8n. This has no end, with costs only tied to your hosting set up (like server, web name). Lets you have as many flows & runs as you like.

Starter Cloud

€20/month

Starts at €20/month (billed yearly, or €24/month each month) – Lets you run 2,500 flows a month, have 5 flows on at once, no cap on steps, & basic help. Great for one or a small group.

Pro Cloud

€50/month

Starts at €50/month (billed yearly, or €60/month each month) – Lets you run 10,000 flows, have 15 flows on at once, better group tools, & top help. For teams that are growing.

Big Cloud

Custom Price

For big firms that need no cap on runs, top security (SSO, more time to keep data), help with SLA, & Git for versions.

Note: AI API use (like OpenAI credit) is billed on its own by the AI groups.

Alternatives

Zapier

A top no-code group known for its easy use & loads of built-in links (5,000+). Less rule & choice than n8n, often more cost for more use.

Make (was Integromat)

A strong show group with more ways to move data & handle it than Zapier, but still less bend than n8n, big for self-run & custom code.