n8n
by n8n GmbH
Fair-code workflow automation with built-in AI agent nodes, self-hostable
Last reviewed 2026-06-18
n8n is a workflow automation platform that lets technical teams connect apps, APIs, and internal tools into multi-step automated workflows via a visual node-based builder, with custom JavaScript or Python where more control is needed. It is fair-code / source-available under the Sustainable Use License plus an Enterprise License: the source is visible and the community edition self-hosts for free, but it is not fully open source under an OSI license. Native AI is built in. The AI Agent node runs inside a workflow, can call any connected LLM, and use tools, memory, and vector stores, with optional human-in-the-loop steps. n8n offers a managed cloud and a self-hosted community edition, and is positioned for technical teams who want to combine AI, code, and human approval in one automation.
What it can do
Run AI agents inside workflows
SupervisedThe AI Agent node calls a connected LLM and uses tools, memory, and vector stores to complete tasks as a step within a larger workflow.
sourceOrchestrate multi-step automations visually
AssistantA node-based editor chains triggers, integrations, code, and logic into workflows that run on schedule, webhook, or event.
sourceExpose and consume MCP tools
SupervisedAn MCP Server Trigger exposes workflows as MCP tools, and an MCP Client Tool lets agents call external MCP servers, both within workflow guardrails.
sourceEmbed human-in-the-loop control
CopilotWorkflows can pause for human approval or input before an agent or downstream step proceeds.
source
Strengths
- +Genuinely flexible: visual no-code builder plus inline JavaScript/Python and HTTP-to-any-API
- +Self-hostable community edition is free with unlimited executions, giving full data control
- +Strong native AI: agent nodes, MCP support, model-agnostic LLM connections built into workflows
Limitations
- −Not truly open source: the Sustainable Use License restricts commercial use such as reselling n8n as a service
- −Execution-based cloud pricing can balloon for high-frequency workflows
- −Self-hosting shifts backups, security updates, scaling, and infra cost onto you
Overview
n8n is a fair-code workflow automation platform with native AI agent nodes, positioned for technical teams. It can run as managed cloud or as a free self-hosted community edition.
What it does
A visual node-based editor chains triggers, integrations, code, and logic into workflows. The AI Agent node runs inside a workflow, calls any connected LLM, and uses tools, memory, and vector stores. n8n can both expose workflows as MCP tools and call external MCP servers, and workflows can pause for human approval.
Integrations & setup
400+ integrations including OpenAI, Anthropic, Slack, databases, and an HTTP node for any API. It is model-agnostic across GPT, Claude, and open-source models.
Pricing
The self-hosted community edition is free with unlimited executions. Cloud starts around EUR 20/mo (Starter, billed annually), with execution-based metering and enterprise tiers.
Best for / not for
Best for technical teams that want flexible automation with AI and the option to self-host. Less suited to non-technical users wanting a turnkey product, or to those who need a fully OSI-open-source license.
Alternatives
Lindy and Relevance AI target less technical builders; LangChain is the developer framework for building agents from scratch.
What people are saying
Loved for
- +automation
- +workflow
- +data
Common gripes
- −automation
- −business
Recent mentions
“AI is changing how data analysts work. The advantage now comes from knowing which tools can help you clean data, write SQL, build dashboards, automate reporting, and explain insights faster. Here are 20 AI tools every da”
“I don't type context into Claude anymore. My tools do it for me. The immigrant mathematics of AI integration: Isolated tool = limited output Connected system = compounding leverage Once Claude talks to your existing stac”
“Built. Shipped. Learned. Repeat. When I started my MSc in Advanced Computing, I thought it would be lectures, assignments, and a degree at the end. And yes — it was that. But what I didn't expect was doing it all while”
“Honored to Be Part of the IBPC AI Advantage Certification Program I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to IBPC Qatar (Indian Business & Professionals Council) for organizing the IBPC AI Advantage Certificatio”
“Localization does not need another AI prophecy. It needs a builder’s playbook. From June 24 to 26, 2026, the GenAI in Localization Spring Workshop Conference will bring together localization professionals, language engin”
FAQ
Is n8n open source?+
Not in the strict OSI sense. It is fair-code / source-available under the Sustainable Use License: the source is public and the community edition is free to self-host, but commercial use such as reselling n8n as a hosted service is restricted.
Can n8n run AI agents?+
Yes. The AI Agent node runs inside a workflow, connects to any LLM, and can use tools, memory, vector stores, and MCP servers, with optional human-in-the-loop steps.
Sources
- n8n plans and pricing · accessed 2026-06-18
- n8n GitHub repository (license, integrations) · accessed 2026-06-18
- AI Agent node documentation · accessed 2026-06-18
Last reviewed 2026-06-18