n8n vs Workato
A side-by-side look at 2 AI & ML tools for 2026 — the verdict, pricing, ratings, features, and what readers think.
n8n.io
Best for Technical teams automating workflows and AI agents who want self-hosting and code access
Workflow automation and AI agents you can self-host, inspect and run step by step.
Visit n8n
workato.com
Best for Mid-size and large IT teams that need governed integration and AI agents
Enterprise automation and iPaaS platform that connects apps, data and AI agents with governance built in.
Visit WorkatoPricing compared
n8n
€20/mo (billed annually)
Workato
Quote-based; four editions (Standard to Workato ONE)
Head to head
| n8n | Workato | |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ||
| Starting price | €20/mo (billed annually) | Quote-based; four editions (Standard to Workato ONE) |
| Free tier | — | No |
| Free trial | Free trial on cloud plans, no credit card required | Free start offered; contact sales for plans |
| Platforms | Web · Self-hosted · API · CLI | Web · API |
Pros & cons
n8n
Pros
- Every plan includes unlimited users and workflows; pricing is by monthly executions.
- Self-hosting is supported, so data can stay in your own environment.
- Built-in AI Agent node, MCP server and client support, and human approval for tool calls.
- Code steps in JavaScript or Python sit next to the visual editor.
- 500+ native integrations plus any API over HTTP.
Cons
- Cloud Starter allows 5 concurrent executions and a 5-minute maximum execution time.
- SSO and LDAP are not on Starter or Pro; they start at Business (self-hosted only) and Enterprise.
- The Business plan is listed at €667/mo billed annually, a large step up from Pro at €50/mo.
- More technical than no-code tools, so non-technical users may find it harder to start.
Workato
Pros
- One platform covers integration, workflow orchestration, data pipelines and AI agents.
- Governance features include SAML SSO, role-based access control and encryption at rest and in transit.
- Pre-built MCP servers and an AI/MCP gateway are included from the Business MCP edition.
- Supports on-premise connectivity through on-premise agents.
- Regional logins listed for Europe, Singapore, Japan, Korea, Australia, Israel and the UK.
Cons
- No public per-seat or per-task price; costs need a sales conversation.
- Edition limits such as concurrency and workbots add planning overhead.
- Enterprise-oriented, so it is heavier than needed for small teams.
- Higher-tier AI features such as Agent Studio sit in the top edition.