Short answer: Zapier is usually simpler for linear app-to-app jobs. Make is usually better when you need visual branching. n8n belongs in the mix if you can self-host. Sticker price is meaningless until you know the billing unit.
The test
- Map one real workflow you already do weekly.
- Estimate monthly volume (emails, form submits, CRM updates).
- Build the same workflow in Zapier AI and Make on free or trial tiers.
- Count tasks vs operations vs executions before you compare plan pages.
Related: Zapier vs Make vs n8n, Zapier alternatives, client onboarding automation.
If you pay for Zapier and Make, that is overlap until proven otherwise. Premium includes an automation pricing decoder CSV. 7-day trial; LAUNCH50 for 50% off first paid month (new users).