AI-augmented automation platforms for connecting your tools and removing repetitive manual work.
The right default automation tool for most SMEs.
Free tier · Pro from £8.50/mo
Make (formerly Integromat) is the right default for most SMBs starting on automation. The visual builder is more approachable than Zapier, the free tier is more generous, and the paid plans are roughly half the price for similar capability. AI module support is solid. The only reason to pick Zapier instead is if you specifically need its larger app marketplace.
Largest integration marketplace; pick if breadth matters.
Free tier · Pro from £16/mo
Zapier still has the broadest native integration library of any automation tool, and the embedded AI Actions, Tables, and Chatbots are credible. The right pick if you need to connect a long tail of niche SaaS tools that Make doesn't cover, or if your team prefers Zapier's simpler step-by-step builder. Pricier than Make at every tier above the free plan.
Self-hostable, open source, free.
Self-host free · Cloud from £20/mo
n8n is open source and self-hostable for free. Steeper setup than Zapier but no per-execution costs once running. Best for teams with a developer who wants automation without ongoing platform fees.
Browser-based automation with strong AI features. Great for personal workflows and lightweight team automation; not a replacement for Zapier-scale work.
Visit Bardeen →Open-source Zapier alternative. Growing ecosystem of integrations; worth watching if Zapier prices become an issue.
Visit ActivePieces →Developer-friendly with code workflows. Not for non-technical users; great if you have someone who can write JavaScript.
Visit Pipedream →Enterprise-grade automation. Overkill for SMEs but if you're scaling past 100 staff with serious integration needs, worth evaluating.
Visit Workato →Consumer-focused. Underpowered for serious business use, but the free tier is fine for very simple personal workflows.
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