Microsoft Power Automate vs Activepieces
Microsoft Power Automate: Microsoft's workflow automation tool, with Copilot to build flows from plain-language requests. 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
Microsoft Power Automate
Best for: Organisations that already use Microsoft 365.
Stands out for: Deep Microsoft 365 integration; Handles both cloud and desktop tasks.
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
| Visit microsoft.com (opens in a new tab) | Visit activepieces.com (opens in a new tab) | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Microsoft's workflow automation tool, with Copilot to build flows from plain-language requests. | Open-source automation builder with AI agents, a visual editor and a self-hosting option. |
| Pricing | Free + PaidIncluded with some Microsoft 365 plans | Open sourceSelf-host free; paid cloud plans available |
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| Category | AI Agents & Automation | AI Agents & Automation |
| Editor rank | #9 in category | #18 in category |
| Made by | Microsoft | Activepieces |
| Best for | Organisations that already use Microsoft 365. | Teams that want automation with more control over data and cost. |
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Microsoft Power Automate vs Activepieces: questions
Is Microsoft Power Automate better than Activepieces?
Neither wins for everyone. Our editors rank Microsoft Power Automate 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, Microsoft Power Automate or Activepieces?
Both can be used without paying: Microsoft Power Automate is free + paid and Activepieces is open source. Paid plans add more usage or features.
Can I use Microsoft Power Automate and Activepieces together?
Yes. Many people keep both and pick per task, for example send a Teams alert when a form is submitted with Microsoft Power Automate, and self-host automations for privacy reasons with Activepieces.