Head-to-Head Comparison · Alternative to n8n · 🤖 automation
n8n vs Automa
No-code platform for building AI agents and RPA workflows that automate repetitive business tasks across finance, HR, sales, and operations. Here is how Automa ($0/mo open source) stacks up against n8n ($15/mo) across cost, hosting, data privacy, and real-world trade-offs.
Automa is a verified Open Source-licensed open-source replacement for n8n. Switching from n8n ($15/mo) saves $180/yr per solo seat, or $900/yr for a 5-person team. Deployment: Runs on Self-host.
The catch: Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed UiPath.
n8n vs Automa Specifications
facts verified 2026-11-07
| Dimension | n8n (Paid) | Automa (Replacement) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $15 / mo | $0 / mo |
| 1-Year Cost (1 seat) | $180 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $180) |
| 1-Year Cost (5 seats) | $900 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $900) |
| 1-Year Cost (10 seats) | $1,800 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $1,800) |
| Source & License | Proprietary SaaS | open source Open Source |
| Where It Runs | Vendor Cloud | Self-host (your server) |
| Platforms | Web / Cloud | webself-hosteddocker to self-host |
| GitHub Stars | — | ★ 21.7k (active nov 2026) |
Deep Dive: Switching from n8n to Automa
Trade-offs, installation & data architecture
What you trade away
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed UiPath.
How to deploy Automa
Clone https://github.com/AutomaApp/automa or deploy with Docker Compose
What it takes to run
Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
Where your data lives
All application data and configuration live on your own server or local database.
Why fork Automa instead of vibe-coding a n8n clone?
Instead of paying recurring SaaS fees for n8n or rebuilding it from scratch, deploy one of the 5 battle-tested open-source alternatives like Flowise AI.
n8n vs Automa FAQ
Is Automa a good free alternative to n8n?+
Yes. Automa is a verified open-source (Open Source) replacement for n8n. No-code platform for building AI agents and RPA workflows that automate repetitive business tasks across finance, HR, sales, and operations.
What is the catch when switching from n8n to Automa?+
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed UiPath.
How much do you save switching from n8n to Automa?+
n8n costs $15/mo ($180/yr) per seat, whereas Automa is $0/mo. Switching saves $180/yr for a solo user, $900/yr for a 5-person team, and $1,800/yr for a 10-person team.
How do I install or self-host Automa instead of n8n?+
Install: Clone https://github.com/AutomaApp/automa or deploy with Docker Compose. Setup: Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
