Dev.to
5/9/2026

n8n vs Make vs Custom Scripts: When to Use What for AI Workflow Automation
Short summary
n8n, Make, and custom scripts serve different automation needs. n8n wins for technical teams with AI integrations and self-hosting cost savings; Make suits non-technical teams valuing ease and rapid setup; custom scripts provide full control for unique integrations and high-volume workloads. Select based on team skill level, scaling costs, and whether AI-native workflow nodes are required.
- •n8n: free, self-hosted, strong AI/LLM nodes; requires technical skill
- •Make: easy setup, visual builder, non-technical friendly; expensive at scale
- •Custom: full control and performance; highest maintenance cost
Generated with AI, which can make mistakes.
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