Why use n8n?
n8n is a game changer for technical, no-code and data teams. Where Zapier or Make impose a rigid framework (limited number of steps, cost per action, dependence on the infrastructure), n8n leaves you alone total control of your automations.
You can self-host the platform, integrate custom functions (JavaScript, REST/GraphQL API), manage large-scale workflows at no cost per task, and build ultra-fine conditional logic. It is the ideal tool if you are looking for a sovereign, extensible and robust approach.
n8n is particularly suited to advanced Webflow projects, CRM/Slack/Notion automations, or even integrations between backends, billing systems and third-party services.
How does n8n work?
The interface is visual and modular : each “node” represents an action, a data source, a condition, or a transformation.
You put your workflows together like diagrams, with connections between nodes to define logic.
Each workflow can be triggered by a external event (webhook, email, trigger API) or at regular intervals (cron job).
You can:
- Create conditional branches
- Manipulate data (parse, reformat, filter)
- Call external APIs or run JavaScript
- Notify, send data, synchronize databases...
Key features of n8n
Open-source and self-hosting
Deploy n8n on your server to keep control of your data and costs.
Flexible visual editor
Create complex workflows with conditional logic, iterations, managed errors, and more
Advanced API integrations
Native connectors or custom HTTP requests, REST and GraphQL support.
Data processing
Manipulate, transform, filter data between stages.
Execution on events
Triggered by webhook, API, scheduled interval, or third-party service.
Examples of using n8n
- Sync Webflow → Notion → Slack : When a Webflow form is filled out, send the info to Notion, create a Trello card, and notify Slack.
- Standby Scraper : Automatic collection of items via RSS/API, sending by email or storage in Airtable.
- Stripe + CRM connection : When a Stripe payment is validated, create a lead in Pipedrive, trigger onboarding, send an invoice.
- Automated cleaning of database every week via cron + filter + delete.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about n8n
What is the difference between n8n and Make/Zapier?
N8n is open-source, self-hosting and without artificial limitations on the number of tasks or steps. It allows for much greater customization, but requires a bit more technical mastery.
Do you need to know how to code to use n8n?
No, but having notions (JSON, API, conditional logic) helps to take advantage of the full potential. The tool remains visual and accessible to any technical or product profile.
Can it be used with Webflow?
Yes Webflow has an API that n8n can query or use as a trigger (form submission, CMS update, etc.).
Is there a free version?
Yes. You can use N8n Cloud for free with limits, or install it freely on your own server.
Can several people collaborate?
Yes, especially via n8n Cloud (team management), or in a self-hosted version with defined permissions.
