n8n vs Microsoft Power Automate
Side-by-side from the Top 11 rankings of The 11 Best Automation Platforms (Zapier Alternatives) (2026) and The 11 Best RPA Software (2026). Last verified June 3, 2026.
The short answer
Microsoft Power Automate ranks higher on Top 11 (#2 vs #3) for Operators automating workflows across SaaS / Automation CoE leads, IT operations, and business process teams automating high-volume, rules-based work across finance, HR, and back-office systems. Lowest-friction RPA inside Microsoft 365.
At a glance
| n8n | Microsoft Power Automate | |
|---|---|---|
| Top 11 rank | #3 / The 11 Best Automation Platforms (Zapier Alternatives) (2026) | #2 / The 11 Best RPA Software (2026) |
| Score (out of 9.4) | 8.8 | 9.1 |
| Best for | Self-hosted, open-source flexibility | Best value for Microsoft 365 shops |
| Pricing | $ ($0 to $100+/mo) | $$ (From ~$15/user/mo, add-ons for unattended) |
| HQ | Berlin, Germany | Redmond, USA |
| Founded | 2019 | 2016 |
n8n
The best open-source option for self-hosting, offering deep customization and data control.
n8n.ioSee full entry in The 11 Best Automation Platforms (Zapier Alternatives) (2026)
Microsoft Power Automate
Lowest-friction RPA inside Microsoft 365.
www.microsoft.com/power-platform/products/power-automateMethodology and scoring weights live at /methodology. No vendor pays for placement — see about.