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n8n vs Activepieces

n8n: Open-source workflow automation with AI agents you can self-host. Activepieces: Open-source automation builder with AI agents, a visual editor and a self-hosting option. Here is how they compare on features, pricing, platforms, pros and cons.

Quick verdict

n8n

Best for: Technical teams that want control over their automations.

Stands out for: Open source and self-hostable; Flexible with code when needed.

Activepieces

Best for: Teams that want automation with more control over data and cost.

Stands out for: Open source with self-hosting; Friendly visual editor.

Side-by-side comparison

Comparison of n8n, Activepieces
n8n
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Activepieces
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What it isOpen-source workflow automation with AI agents you can self-host.Open-source automation builder with AI agents, a visual editor and a self-hosting option.
Pricing
Open source
Open sourceSelf-host free; paid cloud plans available
Free to useYesYes
CategoryAI Agents & AutomationAI Agents & Automation
Editor rank#2 in category#18 in category
Made byn8nActivepieces
Best forTechnical teams that want control over their automations.Teams that want automation with more control over data and cost.
Key features
  • Self-hostable
  • Visual workflow builder
  • AI agent nodes
  • Visual automation builder
  • Open-source connector library
  • AI steps and agents
  • Self-host or use the cloud
Pros
  • Open source and self-hostable
  • Flexible with code when needed
  • Strong AI and LLM nodes
  • Open source with self-hosting
  • Friendly visual editor
Cons
  • Self-hosting needs technical skills
  • Steeper learning curve than Zapier
  • Fewer integrations than the largest platforms
Use it to
  • Self-host automations for full data control
  • Build AI agent workflows visually
  • Connect APIs with custom code steps
  • Self-host automations for privacy reasons
  • Add an AI step to classify incoming emails
  • Sync data between business apps
Web app
Windows
Mac
Linux

n8n vs Activepieces: questions

Is n8n better than Activepieces?

Neither wins for everyone. Our editors rank n8n slightly higher overall in AI Agents & Automation, but Activepieces can be the better fit: Teams that want automation with more control over data and cost.

Which is free, n8n or Activepieces?

Both can be used without paying: n8n is open source and Activepieces is open source. Paid plans add more usage or features.

Can I use n8n and Activepieces together?

Yes. Many people keep both and pick per task, for example self-host automations for full data control with n8n, and self-host automations for privacy reasons with Activepieces.

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