Head-to-Head Comparison · Alternative to n8n Cloud · 🤖 automation
n8n Cloud vs Automatisch
A smaller AGPL automation server for people who do not need n8n's entire ecosystem. Here is how Automatisch ($0/mo open source) stacks up against n8n Cloud ($27.73/mo) across cost, hosting, data privacy, and real-world trade-offs.
Automatisch
$0.00/mo · AGPL-3.0
n8n Cloud vs Automatisch Specification Matrix
facts verified 2026-08-10
| Dimension | n8n Cloud (Paid) | Automatisch (Replacement) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $27.73 / mo | $0 / mo |
| 1-Year Cost (1 seat) | $333 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $333) |
| 1-Year Cost (5 seats) | $1,664 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $1,664) |
| 1-Year Cost (10 seats) | $3,328 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $3,328) |
| Source & License | Proprietary SaaS | open source AGPL-3.0 |
| Where It Runs | Vendor Cloud | Self-host (your server) |
| Platforms | Web / Cloud | webself-hosteddocker to self-host |
| GitHub Stars | — | ★ 14k (active jan 2026) |
Deep Dive: Switching from n8n Cloud to Automatisch
Trade-offs, installation & data architecture
What you trade away
Automatisch is much narrower than n8n's ecosystem and still leaves every operational responsibility with you.
How to deploy Automatisch
Clone the repository and run Docker Compose.
What it takes to run
Requires Docker, PostgreSQL/Redis configuration and secret management; the default sample login must be changed immediately.
Where your data lives
Application and credential data stays on the user's server in PostgreSQL, with Redis for queues/cache; credentials are encrypted.
Why fork Automatisch instead of vibe-coding a n8n Cloud clone?
Because n8n itself is open source, the core cloud subscription can be replaced by self-hosting if you can own hosting, updates, and backups.
n8n Cloud vs Automatisch FAQ
Is Automatisch a good free alternative to n8n Cloud?+
Yes. Automatisch is a verified open-source (AGPL-3.0) replacement for n8n Cloud. A smaller AGPL automation server for people who do not need n8n's entire ecosystem.
What is the catch when switching from n8n Cloud to Automatisch?+
Automatisch is much narrower than n8n's ecosystem and still leaves every operational responsibility with you.
How much do you save switching from n8n Cloud to Automatisch?+
n8n Cloud costs $27.73/mo ($333/yr) per seat, whereas Automatisch is $0/mo. Switching saves $333/yr for a solo user, $1,664/yr for a 5-person team, and $3,328/yr for a 10-person team.
How do I install or self-host Automatisch instead of n8n Cloud?+
Install: Clone the repository and run Docker Compose.. Setup: Requires Docker, PostgreSQL/Redis configuration and secret management; the default sample login must be changed immediately.
