n8n vs Manus
n8n: Open-source workflow automation with AI agents you can self-host. Manus: A general AI agent that completes research and build tasks end to end. 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.
Manus
Best for: People who want to delegate whole tasks to an agent.
Stands out for: Handles long multi-step tasks; Works on its own in the background.
Side-by-side comparison
| Visit n8n.io (opens in a new tab) | Visit manus.im (opens in a new tab) | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Open-source workflow automation with AI agents you can self-host. | A general AI agent that completes research and build tasks end to end. |
| Pricing | Open source | Free + Paid |
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| Category | AI Agents & Automation | AI Agents & Automation |
| Editor rank | #2 in category | #7 in category |
| Made by | n8n | Manus |
| Best for | Technical teams that want control over their automations. | People who want to delegate whole tasks to an agent. |
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n8n vs Manus: questions
Is n8n better than Manus?
Neither wins for everyone. Our editors rank n8n slightly higher overall in AI Agents & Automation, but Manus can be the better fit: People who want to delegate whole tasks to an agent.
Which is free, n8n or Manus?
Both can be used without paying: n8n is open source and Manus is free + paid. Paid plans add more usage or features.
Can I use n8n and Manus together?
Yes. Many people keep both and pick per task, for example self-host automations for full data control with n8n, and research a topic and get a written report with Manus.