Technical Guide
14th July 2024
9 min read
Stu Mason
n8n vs. Zapier vs. Make: Which Automation Platform is Right for You?
A practical, no-bullshit comparison of the top automation platforms for growing companies.

Stu Mason
Automation expert • Sony, Paddle, Pfizer • 15 years experience • AWS certified

Choosing the right automation platform can make or break your project. Here's what we've learned from real-world deployments.
Platform Overview
- n8n: Open-source, flexible, developer-friendly
- Zapier: Easiest to use, best for simple automations
- Make: Great for complex, multi-step workflows
Case Example: Scale-up Platform Choice
One client switched from Zapier to n8n and saved £400/month while gaining more control.
Insider Insight
Don't pick a platform based on features—pick based on your team's skills and your real needs.
Pitfalls
- Overpaying for features you don't use
- Choosing a platform that's too complex for your team
Visuals
- Platform Comparison Table
- Cost Savings Chart
- Sample Workflow Screenshot
Conclusion
The best platform is the one your team will actually use. Test before you commit.
Want help choosing?
Book a free automation platform consult with ArcTether.
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