n8n vs Dify
n8n: Open-source workflow automation with AI agents you can self-host. Dify: Open-source platform for building AI apps, chatbots and agent workflows visually. 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.
Dify
Best for: Developers and technical teams building internal AI apps.
Stands out for: Open source and self-hostable; Large active community.
Side-by-side comparison
| Visit n8n.io (opens in a new tab) | Visit dify.ai (opens in a new tab) | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Open-source workflow automation with AI agents you can self-host. | Open-source platform for building AI apps, chatbots and agent workflows visually. |
| Pricing | Open source | Open sourceSelf-host free; paid cloud plans available |
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| Category | AI Agents & Automation | AI Agents & Automation |
| Editor rank | #2 in category | #10 in category |
| Made by | n8n | LangGenius |
| Best for | Technical teams that want control over their automations. | Developers and technical teams building internal AI apps. |
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n8n vs Dify: questions
Is n8n better than Dify?
Neither wins for everyone. Our editors rank n8n slightly higher overall in AI Agents & Automation, but Dify can be the better fit: Developers and technical teams building internal AI apps.
Which is free, n8n or Dify?
Both can be used without paying: n8n is open source and Dify is open source. Paid plans add more usage or features.
Can I use n8n and Dify together?
Yes. Many people keep both and pick per task, for example self-host automations for full data control with n8n, and build a chatbot that answers from company docs with Dify.