n8n vs Huginn vs Node-RED
Automation platforms to connect apps and APIs, alternatives to Zapier. n8n has the most modern interface; Node-RED shines at IoT; Huginn is agent-oriented.
| Tool | ★ GitHub | License | Platform |
|---|---|---|---|
| | 193,648 | Apache-2.0, Commons-Clause | Nodejs |
| | 49,499 | MIT | Ruby |
| | 23,340 | Apache-2.0 | Nodejs, Docker |
Popularity (★ on GitHub)
n8n is a workflow automation platform that connects hundreds of apps and APIs with a visual drag-and-drop interface. Running on your own server, it's the self-hosted alternative to Zapier and Make — no per-execution billing and your data never leaves your infrastructure.
Huginn lets you create 'agents' that monitor the web and act on your behalf — a self-hosted alternative to IFTTT/Zapier. It runs on your server, with no execution limits or third-party dependency.
Browser-based flow editor that helps you wiring hardware devices, APIs and online services to create IoT solutions.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the best self-hosted alternative among n8n, Huginn, Node RED?
It depends on your case. n8n is the most popular (193,648 stars). Compare license, platform and features in the table above.
Are n8n, Huginn, Node RED free?
Yes, they're all open source and self-hosted — you run them on your own server with no monthly fee.