Appsmith vs n8n

Both tools are open-source and self-hostable, but target different use cases. n8n focuses on workflow automation and AI agents: it offers 500+ pre-built integrations, a visual workflow builder with JavaScript/Python code support, AI agent builder with multi-agent and RAG, human-in-the-loop approvals, and MCP support. It also provides Git-based version control, RBAC, SSO/SAML, audit logs, and workflow history. Appsmith focuses on building internal tools: drag-and-drop responsive UI widgets, centralized JavaScript IDE with auto-complete and linting, natural language code generation, and connections to any database, SaaS tool, or REST/GraphQL API. It offers Git-based CI/CD, SAML/OIDC SSO, RBAC, SCIM provisioning, audit logs, and SOC 2 compliance. n8n's latest news (June 2026) introduces agent-to-agent (A2A) protocol and data leak prevention node, expanding its AI orchestration capabilities. Appsmith lacks recent news. For integrations, n8n includes Slack, Salesforce, OpenAI, etc.; Appsmith connects to any REST/GraphQL API and databases directly. n8n is better for automating multi-step processes; Appsmith for building UIs over data sources.

Both tools offer freemium pricing with free self-hosted options. n8n's cloud plans start at $20/user/month (Starter) and scale to $50/user/month (Pro) with advanced features like RBAC, audit logs, and AI capabilities. Self-hosted is free with full features. Appsmith's cloud plans start at $10/user/month (Starter) for up to 5 users, $30/user/month (Business) for unlimited users, SSO, and audit logs. Self-hosted is free with unlimited users, SSO, and RBAC. Both are open-source but n8n uses a Sustainable Use License (not Apache 2.0) which restricts competitive use. Appsmith is Apache 2.0. For enterprises, both offer custom pricing with premium support. n8n's AI features (agents, RAG) require higher tiers. Appsmith's pricing is simpler for UI building. Overall, n8n can be more expensive for AI workflows, while Appsmith is more economical for basic internal tools.