Like-for-like comparison
Make, n8n or Zapier: where the choice actually splits
Three popular automation platforms, compared by charging unit, code, hosting, connector breadth and operating ownership rather than feature-list applause.
Reduce the shortlist using one real process and the conditions that could disqualify a tool.
THE SHORT ANSWER
Zapier is the quick managed default, Make the visual orchestrator, and n8n the technical-control option. Those are starting positions, not a podium.
DECISION BOUNDARIES
What actually separates the options
Unit
Tasks, credits and executions are not interchangeable.
Control
Decide whether code or self-hosting solves a named constraint.
Repair
Compare logs, replay and the skill needed to restore service.
Use Zapier for common SaaS, Make for visible multi-step logic, and n8n for API/code or hosting control.
Keep the current process when volume is modest, exceptions dominate, or no one owns failures.
COST AND CONSTRAINTS
Price is one operating condition
Build one workload model with three translations. Entry prices are not comparable until the unit of work is.
EVIDENCE
What to test before committing
Run a representative workflow through each contender; remove any product that fails a must-have condition.
SIMPLER ALTERNATIVE
Before adding another account
Native integrations and manual controls remain valid outputs.
A shortlist is useful. A collection is merely organised indecision.