Zapier and Make are two popular automation platforms offering free plans with distinct features. Zapier is ideal for simple, single-step automations with a limit of 100 tasks per month. Its user-friendly interface and AI-powered Copilot make it perfect for beginners. Make, on the other hand, allows up to 1,000 operations per month and supports multi-step workflows, branching, and advanced logic, making it better suited for complex automations. However, Make has a steeper learning curve.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Zapier Free Plan | Make Free Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Limit | 100 tasks | 1,000 operations |
| Workflow Complexity | Single-step automations | Multi-step workflows |
| Trigger Frequency | 15-minute intervals | User-configured scheduling |
| Ease of Use | Beginner-friendly | Requires technical knowledge |
| Best For | Simple automations | Advanced, high-volume workflows |
If you're new to automation or need basic workflows, Zapier is a great starting point. For more advanced needs, Make offers greater flexibility but requires more time to learn. Choose based on your workflow complexity and monthly usage needs.
Zapier vs Make: key differences and pricing explained (+ test automations)
Free Plan Features Overview
Zapier and Make both offer free plans, but they differ in terms of monthly limits and the complexity of automations they support. Let’s take a closer look at what each free plan includes.
Zapier Free Plan
Zapier’s free plan allows for 100 tasks per month and supports two-step Zaps. Each Zap includes one trigger and one action. For example, you could set up a Zap to save Gmail attachments to Google Drive, but you wouldn’t be able to add a Slack notification as an additional action.
This plan includes unlimited Zaps, access to 2,500 data records, and up to 10 interface pages for creating custom dashboards or forms. It also comes with basic AI-powered assistance through its Copilot tool, designed to simplify automation creation. However, only non-premium apps are available under the free plan.
Make Free Plan
Make’s free plan is more generous with 1,000 operations per month and supports multi-step workflows. These workflows can include branches, conditions, and advanced actions, giving you the flexibility to create more complex automations. Features like filters, routers, and webhooks allow you to process data along different paths based on specific conditions.
Make’s free plan provides access to most standard app integrations without premium limitations, but it doesn’t specify a data storage limit or offer interface pages for custom dashboards.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Zapier Free Plan | Make Free Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Limit | 100 tasks | 1,000 operations |
| Automation Complexity | Two-step Zaps only | Multi-step scenarios |
| Update Interval | 15 minutes | 15 minutes |
| Advanced Logic | None | Filters, routers, branching |
| AI Features | Basic Copilot included | Some AI modules (varies) |
| Data Storage | 2,500 records | Not specified |
| Interface Pages | 10 pages | Not applicable |
| App Restrictions | Non-premium apps only | Most standard apps |
The most striking difference is the 10x increase in monthly limits with Make’s free plan - 1,000 operations compared to Zapier’s 100 tasks. This difference can be a game-changer if you rely on frequent automations or more complex workflows.
Ease of Use and Learning Requirements
The learning curve for Zapier and Make varies significantly, as each platform caters to different levels of technical expertise and automation needs. Your choice will depend on how comfortable you are with technology and the complexity of the workflows you want to build.
Zapier: Simple Setup for Beginners
Zapier’s no-code editor is designed for simplicity, making it a great choice for those new to automation. The interface uses plain, straightforward language, avoiding technical terms that might intimidate beginners. When you create a "Zap", the platform walks you through each step with clear instructions and prompts.
Zapier also offers hundreds of templates for common tasks, allowing you to set up automations in just a few minutes. These prebuilt workflows make it easy to get started without needing to design everything from scratch.
One standout feature is Zapier Copilot, an AI-powered assistant included even in the free plan. It suggests automation ideas and guides you through the setup process, making the platform even more user-friendly. Additionally, Zapier’s two-step workflow format simplifies things further, helping you grasp the basics of automation without feeling overwhelmed.
For additional support, the Zapier Community is a valuable resource where you can ask questions and learn from other users’ experiences. In contrast, Make’s approach is more suited to users with a deeper interest in advanced customization.
Make: Advanced Workflow Builder
Make offers a visual workflow builder that’s powerful but more complex. While it uses a drag-and-drop interface, it introduces technical terms and concepts that might be daunting for beginners. However, for users who need more control over intricate workflows, Make’s flexibility is a strong advantage.
With Make, you can create multi-step scenarios that include conditional logic, branching paths, and data transformations. For example, you could design a workflow that syncs data between your CRM, spreadsheet, and email marketing tool, triggering different actions based on specific conditions. To do this, though, you’ll need to understand concepts like data mapping, filters, and routers.
The platform assumes some familiarity with automation logic, so users need to invest time learning its structure and advanced features like webhooks and API connections. While Make provides detailed documentation, the resources are geared toward users seeking more advanced customization, rather than step-by-step guides for beginners.
New users may find the learning process slower, as understanding the platform’s terminology and workflow design is essential before creating successful automations. This makes Make a better fit for those who are comfortable tackling a steeper learning curve in exchange for greater customization options.
| Learning Aspect | Zapier | Make |
|---|---|---|
| Time to First Automation | 5-10 minutes with templates | 30+ minutes learning the interface |
| Technical Knowledge Required | None | Basic understanding of workflow logic |
| Setup Complexity | Guided, step-by-step | Self-directed, with more customization |
| Best Learning Approach | Start with templates | Study documentation before starting |
Ultimately, the right platform depends on your comfort with technology and how intricate you need your automations to be. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to get started, Zapier is the way to go. On the other hand, if you’re willing to spend time mastering advanced concepts, Make offers the tools to build more sophisticated workflows.
Free Plan Restrictions
When deciding on the right platform, it's important to understand the limitations that come with free plans. Both Zapier and Make impose specific restrictions that can impact how you build and execute automations.
Zapier's Key Restrictions
Zapier's free plan comes with several notable constraints. First, it limits you to single-step automations, meaning each Zap can only include one trigger and one action. This makes it impossible to create more advanced workflows involving multiple apps or conditional logic.
Another restriction is the 100-task monthly limit. In Zapier, a task refers to any single action, like sending an email or adding a contact. For example, if you set up a Zap to create a new task in a project management tool every time you receive an email, hitting 150 emails in a month would exceed your task limit before the month ends.
Zapier also operates on a 15-minute polling interval, meaning it checks for new triggers every 15 minutes instead of instantly. This delay can be inconvenient for time-sensitive workflows, such as urgent notifications or customer support processes.
Additional limitations include access to only basic integrations - features like webhooks, custom fields, or advanced data formatting require a paid plan. The free plan is also restricted to one user, which rules out team collaboration. Furthermore, data storage is limited to 2,500 records in Zapier Tables and 10 interface pages, which may not suffice for managing large datasets.
Make, on the other hand, has its own set of restrictions to consider.
Make's Key Restrictions
Make's free plan is structured around an operations-based system. It allows up to 1,000 operations per month, but the complexity of workflows can quickly eat into this limit. An operation is any action performed in a scenario, such as retrieving, processing, or sending data. Since a single scenario may involve multiple steps, users need to design workflows carefully to stay within the monthly allowance.
Data transfer limits can also pose challenges, especially for scenarios handling large amounts of information. While Make doesn't specify exact data transfer caps, exceeding these limits could pause your workflows before you hit the 1,000-operation mark.
Make's free plan also comes with restrictions on the number of active scenarios and their scheduling frequency. Additionally, the platform's advanced interface has a steeper learning curve, which might slow down new users. Troubleshooting errors and managing workflows often require a higher level of technical expertise compared to Zapier.
| Restriction Type | Zapier Free Plan | Make Free Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Limit | 100 tasks | 1,000 operations |
| Workflow Complexity | Single-step only | Multi-step scenarios allowed |
| Trigger Frequency | 15-minute intervals | User-configured scheduling |
| User Access | 1 user | 1 user |
| Data Storage | 2,500 records in Tables | Limited by data transfer |
| Learning Investment | Minimal | Requires more time to learn |
Ultimately, your choice between Zapier and Make will depend on your specific automation needs. Zapier's free plan is better suited for simple, low-volume workflows, while Make's free tier - though more complex to master - offers greater flexibility for building multi-step automations.
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When to Use Each Free Plan
Choosing the right free plan depends on what you need to automate and your level of technical expertise. Below are examples to help you decide which plan works best for different scenarios.
Zapier: For Simple, Low-Volume Automations
Zapier's free plan is perfect for individuals or small teams handling straightforward, low-volume tasks between popular apps. It’s ideal for connecting two services without needing advanced logic or multiple steps.
Freelancers and solo entrepreneurs often benefit from Zapier's simplicity. For example, you can automatically save Gmail attachments to Google Drive or transfer new form responses from your website into a Google Sheets spreadsheet. These repetitive tasks fit comfortably within the 100-task monthly limit, making Zapier a great choice for non-urgent processes like daily reporting or scheduling social media posts.
Make: For Complex, High-Volume Workflows
Make's free plan is tailored for users who need more advanced workflows, including multi-step processes, conditional logic, and higher operation limits. With up to 1,000 operations per month, Make is better equipped for handling intricate automations.
Startups and growing businesses often rely on Make for more elaborate workflows. For instance, a SaaS company could design an automation that collects leads from multiple sources, checks them against a customer database, routes qualified leads to the sales team via Slack, and updates CRM records - all in one seamless process.
Marketing teams can use Make's branching logic to personalize lead nurturing. For example, when a new lead is added, Make can evaluate criteria like industry or company size and assign the lead to a tailored follow-up sequence.
E-commerce businesses with higher transaction volumes may also find Make's free plan useful for tasks like inventory management. Automations can monitor stock levels, trigger reorders, and send notifications - all within a single workflow. Additionally, Make's advanced data manipulation tools allow businesses to filter, transform, and route data between systems, cutting down on manual effort.
Although Make's visual workflow builder simplifies designing and troubleshooting complex automations, it does come with a steeper learning curve compared to Zapier’s more user-friendly setup.
Summary of Use Cases
Here’s a quick overview of how each plan aligns with specific tasks:
| Use Case | Best Free Plan | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Email to spreadsheet automation | Zapier | Simple, single-step process within limited task volume |
| Multi-step lead qualification | Make | Supports conditional logic and multiple actions |
| Social media posting | Zapier | Straightforward and easy to set up |
| Complex inventory management | Make | Handles multiple data sources and decision points |
| Basic form notifications | Zapier | Direct and uncomplicated |
| Advanced sales pipeline automation | Make | Allows branching logic and higher operation limits |
Both platforms provide valuable options for free. The best choice depends on how complex your automation needs are and the scale of your workflows.
AIapps.com as a Resource
After diving into the comparison of free automation plans, you might wonder how to streamline your research further. That's where AIapps.com comes in. This platform simplifies the process of evaluating tools like Zapier and Make, which can be tricky since features and offerings change so frequently. AIapps.com provides a curated directory of AI tools - including automation platforms - backed by expert analyses and industry updates. It’s an excellent companion to the detailed breakdown we’ve already explored.
One of the standout features of AIapps.com is its categorization system. Whether you're looking for straightforward workflow automations or tackling intricate multi-step processes, the platform allows you to filter tools by function, popularity, and user ratings. This makes finding the right solution quick and hassle-free.
Another helpful feature is the side-by-side comparison tool, which evaluates critical factors like free plan limits, available integrations, ease of use, and standout features. You’ll also find detailed comparison tables, user reviews, and expert insights to help you decide which tool best matches your technical expertise and business needs. For instance, founders can easily determine which platform scales better with their operations.
Beyond comparisons, AIapps.com offers additional resources like guides, trend reports, and case studies to help you implement automation strategies effectively. If you're specifically interested in Zapier and Make, you’ll find up-to-date insights and user experiences to guide your decision-making process.
AIapps.com also supports startups and developers by offering premium .ai domains. For anyone building AI-driven solutions, securing a domain that’s both memorable and relevant to the industry can boost credibility and help establish a strong online presence.
What sets AIapps.com apart is its commitment to accuracy and relevance. A team of editors and industry experts ensures the platform stays current, regularly updating tool listings, pricing, and features based on user feedback and official product updates.
To get started, explore the automation category and dive into detailed tool profiles. Use the comparison tool to weigh Zapier and Make side by side, and check out expert articles for deeper insights into which platform might best suit your business needs.
Conclusion
Deciding between Zapier's and Make's free plans boils down to three main considerations: how many tasks you need to automate each month, how complex your workflows are, and your level of technical expertise. Zapier's free plan is a great fit for individuals or small startups looking for simple, single-step automations that don’t require much setup. On the other hand, Make's free plan shines when it comes to handling more advanced workflows, like multi-step processes with conditional logic and branching. This makes it a strong choice for small businesses managing intricate systems, such as routing leads based on specific criteria across multiple platforms. Keep in mind, though, that Make’s features come with a steeper learning curve.
If your needs involve fewer than 100 straightforward automations each month and you prefer a plug-and-play experience, Zapier will likely meet your expectations. But if your workflows demand more than 100 operations per month or require complex, multi-step processes, Make’s free plan provides a lot more flexibility and capability.
For a deeper dive into automation tools or to explore other solutions, check out AIapps.com. They offer a curated selection of automation and AI tools to help you find the right match for your needs. Start with the platform that best aligns with your current goals and technical skills - you can always explore other tools as your requirements grow.
FAQs
How do Zapier's task limits and Make's operation limits affect workflow automation?
When it comes to automation within their free plans, Zapier and Make have different approaches to limits. Zapier sets a monthly cap on tasks, with each task being an action your automation performs - like sending an email. If you reach that limit, your workflows stop running until the next month unless you upgrade. Make, on the other hand, counts operations, where every single step in a workflow is considered an operation. This means workflows with many steps can use up your allowance faster.
Knowing these limits is key to planning your automations. For straightforward workflows with minimal steps, either platform can handle the job. But if your workflows are more complex or require greater flexibility, you may need to consider upgrading to a paid plan or exploring alternative solutions.
What challenges might I face when using Make for complex workflows compared to Zapier?
When diving into Make for more intricate workflows, you might notice it has a steeper learning curve than Zapier. Its highly visual and flexible interface is undeniably powerful, but for beginners or those less familiar with automation tools, it can feel a bit overwhelming at first.
Another hurdle is Make’s free plan, which comes with tighter usage limits - fewer operations and a shorter data history. These restrictions can be a challenge if you're working on larger or more complex workflows. On the other hand, Zapier’s interface tends to be more user-friendly, allowing newcomers to set up basic automations with ease.
For those looking to tackle advanced automations, dedicating time to learn Make’s features can pay off. However, it does demand more upfront effort compared to the simpler setup process of Zapier.
Can I switch between Zapier and Make if my automation needs change? What should I keep in mind?
Yes, you can switch between Zapier and Make if your automation needs change, but there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, take a close look at the free plans for both platforms to see which one aligns with your current needs. For instance, Zapier’s free plan limits the number of tasks you can run each month, while Make’s free plan uses a structure based on scenarios and operations. Second, assess how complex your current workflows are and whether they can be easily recreated - or even improved - on the new platform. Lastly, don’t overlook the learning curve. Both platforms have distinct interfaces and logic, so you might need some time to get familiar with the new system.
If you're looking for ways to boost productivity or optimize your processes, tools like these are just the starting point. To explore more options or find AI tools that pair well with your automation setup, consider browsing directories that focus on AI solutions.
