n8n vs Make (Integromat) — Self-Hosted Automation Without Limits
Make (formerly Integromat) offers more sophisticated automation than Zapier, but it still charges per operation and limits active scenarios on lower plans. Self-hosted n8n matches Make's visual workflow builder and exceeds it with code nodes, community extensions, and zero usage-based pricing. Here's how they compare.
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Operations-Based Pricing vs Unlimited Executions
Make charges based on operations — each module execution in a scenario counts as one operation. A scenario with 10 modules processing 100 records uses 1,000 operations. Make's Core plan at $9/month includes 10,000 operations, which sounds generous until you realize how quickly operations accumulate with multi-module scenarios processing batches of data.
Self-hosted n8n has no operation counter. Run 10-module workflows processing thousands of records, and the only limit is your server's hardware capacity. A $18/month VPS handles workloads that would consume 50,000-100,000 Make operations per month — saving you $29-159/month compared to Make's equivalent plans.
For businesses that process data in batches — syncing CRM records, processing orders, or transforming datasets — the operation-based model is particularly punitive. n8n handles these batch workloads without any incremental cost per record.
Visual Builder Comparison
Both n8n and Make offer visual workflow builders, and both are significantly more capable than Zapier's linear interface. Make's builder uses a circular layout with connections between modules. n8n uses a node-based canvas with directional flow. Both support branching, error handling, and data routing.
Where n8n pulls ahead is programmability. n8n's Function nodes let you write arbitrary JavaScript (or Python with the code node), giving you full programming power within your workflows. Make has a formula language and basic data manipulation, but it's constrained compared to writing actual code. For complex data transformations, API response parsing, or custom logic, n8n is more flexible.
n8n also supports sub-workflows, allowing you to compose complex automation from reusable building blocks. This architectural pattern scales better for large automation setups with shared logic across multiple workflows.
Self-Hosted Advantages Over Make's Cloud
Make is cloud-only — there's no self-hosted option. Every scenario runs on Make's infrastructure, and your data passes through their servers. You can't inspect their security configuration, can't control where your data is processed, and can't prevent Make from accessing your workflow data if compelled by legal process.
Self-hosted n8n on AnubizHost puts you in complete control. Your workflows and data stay on your server. You choose the geographic location, the security configuration, and the access controls. If you need to comply with data residency requirements, self-hosting is the only option — Make can't guarantee where your data is processed.
Switching from Make to Self-Hosted n8n
Make scenarios translate well to n8n workflows. Most Make modules have n8n node equivalents — HTTP requests, database operations, file processing, email sending, and popular app integrations. Make's router module maps to n8n's IF and Switch nodes. Make's iterators map to n8n's loop functionality.
The main adjustment is moving from Make's formula language to n8n's expression syntax and Function nodes. n8n uses JavaScript-based expressions that are more verbose but also more powerful. Complex formulas that required workarounds in Make often become simpler in n8n's code environment.
AnubizHost can help plan and execute your migration from Make to self-hosted n8n. We'll review your existing scenarios, identify any nodes that need custom solutions, and ensure your new n8n instance handles all your automation needs before you cancel Make.
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