Comparing n8n to enterprise-level automation tools: Worth the cost?

Hey everyone,

I’ve been using n8n for my personal stuff and it’s been great. Now I’m thinking about suggesting it at work, but I’m having second thoughts. Here’s why:

  1. The enterprise license is pretty steep at around $20k
  2. Even with that license, we’d still need to self-host for full functionality
  3. Other options like make.com seem more budget-friendly

I’m worried about recommending n8n when there are cheaper alternatives out there. Has anyone else faced this dilemma? What are the advantages of n8n that might justify the higher cost for a business? Are there hidden benefits I’m missing?

Any insights would be super helpful. Thanks!

I’ve been using n8n in a mid-sized tech company for about a year now, and I can say it’s been a game-changer for us. The initial cost was definitely a hurdle, but the ROI has been substantial.

The key advantage for us has been the ability to create highly specialized workflows that integrate seamlessly with our existing systems. This level of customization isn’t easily achievable with cheaper alternatives.

Self-hosting was actually a blessing in disguise. It allowed us to comply with strict data regulations in our industry, which was crucial for our operations.

That said, it’s not for everyone. If your company doesn’t need advanced customization or doesn’t have the technical resources to manage self-hosting, a simpler solution might be more appropriate.

My advice? Do a thorough needs assessment and maybe run a pilot project before committing. The cost is significant, but for the right organization, it can be well worth it.

n8n is pricey but awesome for complex workflows. i’ve used it at my company and the customization is unbeatable. self-hosting gives us total control over our data which is huge.

but yeah, if ur just doing basic stuff, cheaper options might work. depends on what u need really. maybe try a trial run to see if it’s worth the $$?

I’ve been in a similar situation, and here’s my take: n8n’s strength lies in its flexibility and extensibility. While the enterprise license is pricey, it offers unparalleled customization options that can be crucial for complex business processes. The self-hosting aspect, though initially daunting, provides better data control and security - a major plus for many organizations.

That said, the decision ultimately depends on your specific use case. If your workflows are relatively straightforward, a cheaper alternative might suffice. But if you need deep integrations, custom nodes, or have strict data residency requirements, n8n could be worth the investment.

Consider factors like long-term scalability, the technical expertise of your team, and potential ROI from improved automation. It might be worth running a small pilot to compare n8n with alternatives in your actual business environment before making a final decision.