3 alternatives to n8n Cloud
Compare free and open-source solutions before building your own. Check each option’s license, setup, and limitations.
A genuinely open-source workflow runner with a simpler one-container path.
LicenseMIT
PlatformsOn your server
InstallationRun one Docker container for personal/testing use, or Docker Compose with PostgreSQL and Redis for production.
ModelsAI pieces connect to providers such as OpenAI, Anthropic and Google Gemini using user-supplied credentials.
DataSingle-container mode stores data under ~/.activepieces; production uses PostgreSQL and Redis, with files/logs optionally in S3-compatible storage.
Limitations compared to n8n CloudActivepieces has a smaller node ecosystem and requires you to provide the uptime, upgrades, backups and security n8n Cloud manages.
SetupRequires Docker; public webhooks need a reachable HTTPS URL, while production also needs PostgreSQL, Redis and managed secrets.
Facts verified 2026-08-10
A smaller AGPL automation server for people who do not need n8n's entire ecosystem.
LicenseAGPL-3.0
PlatformsOn your server
InstallationClone the repository and run Docker Compose.
DataApplication and credential data stays on the user's server in PostgreSQL, with Redis for queues/cache; credentials are encrypted.
Limitations compared to n8n CloudAutomatisch is much narrower than n8n's ecosystem and still leaves every operational responsibility with you.
SetupRequires Docker, PostgreSQL/Redis configuration and secret management; the default sample login must be changed immediately.
Facts verified 2026-08-10
The same workflow engine without the cloud bill; you inherit updates, backups, and uptime.
Licensen8n Sustainable Use License
PlatformsOn your server
InstallationInstall with Docker or npm; Docker is the recommended production path.
ModelsAI nodes connect to OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, Ollama and many other model/vector backends.
DataSQLite stores workflows, credentials and executions by default; PostgreSQL is supported, with binary data in the database, filesystem or object storage.
Limitations compared to n8n CloudIt is the same core workflow engine, but the cloud plan's managed upgrades, backups, availability and support all disappear.
SetupRequires a server, HTTPS and a public webhook URL for many integrations, plus ongoing updates, backups and provider credentials.
Facts verified 2026-08-10
Updated 2026-08-10 · no paid listings
| Tool | License | Setup | Platforms | Stars | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activepieces Community Edition | MIT | Docker on your server | web, self-hosted | 23,604 | 2026-08 |
| Automatisch | AGPL-3.0 | Docker on your server | web, self-hosted | 13,923 | 2026-01 |
| n8n Community Edition | n8n Sustainable Use License | Docker on your server | web, self-hosted | — | — |
They pay to avoid maintaining an automation server that their business workflows depend on. If those points do not matter to you, the options above could save $277 per year.
Is there a free alternative to n8n Cloud?
Yes: Activepieces Community Edition, Automatisch, n8n Community Edition. This page lists 3 free or open-source options. Check the limitations of each.
Should I build my own n8n Cloud?
Our verdict: Buildable. Because n8n itself is open source, the core cloud subscription can be replaced by self-hosting if you can own hosting, updates, and backups. The complete prompt is on the n8n Cloud page on Vibe Radar.
