Open-source workflow automation platform — Reddit's favorite alternative to Zapier. n8n bills per workflow run, not per step, so a 20-step workflow counts once (Zapier counts every action as a task, Make every operation). Self-host the free Community Edition for full data control, or use n8n Cloud. Visual workflow builder, and every plan includes every integration. Ideal for consultants who want powerful automation without SaaS cost creep.
Editorial summary
Verified Oct 2026 (prices in EUR). Self-hosted Community Edition: free and open source. n8n Cloud: Starter €20/mo billed annually (€24 monthly) for 2,500 workflow executions a month; Pro from €50/mo annually (€60 monthly) for 10,000 executions. Business (self-hosted only) €667/mo annually (€800 monthly) for 40,000 executions. Enterprise custom. No free Cloud plan: a 14-day trial with 1,000 executions, no credit card. Every plan includes unlimited users, workflows and all integrations.
You pay per workflow run, not per step, so long multi-step workflows cost the same as short ones, and the self-hosted Community Edition is free. Self-hosting gives full data control. Visual workflow builder is intuitive despite the power underneath.
Steeper learning curve than Zapier. If you want plug-and-play automation with zero setup, Zapier is more beginner-friendly.
Confidence
Workflow fit
Capture work for Ops & Finance.
Get first value in 2 hour setup.
Connect with 6 integrations.
Integrations
HubSpotClient ManagementAll-in-one CRM with email sequences, meeting scheduling, and pipeline automation.
GmailCommunicationEmail integration for automated follow-ups, proposals, and correspondence tracking.
NotionKnowledge ManagementWorkspace for project wikis, deliverable tracking, and shared knowledge bases.
Google SheetsData & ReportingSpreadsheet integration for client data analysis, dashboards, and budget tracking.
StripePaymentsPayment processing for invoicing clients, subscriptions, and revenue tracking.Similar tools
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Guides
Your tool needs change at every growth stage. A practical guide to the technology, processes, and decisions that take you from solo consultant to small firm — without losing what made you great.
Building Your Consulting Knowledge VaultStop recreating work you have already done. Build a personal knowledge system that captures, organizes and reuses your research, frameworks and past deliverables.
The Consultant's Pricing Playbook: From Hourly to Value-BasedA framework to evaluate five pricing models, calculate what to charge, and build tiered packages — with formulas, scripts, and sourced benchmarks for solo consultants.
