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Zapier vs. Make

Zapier vs. Make

Automating processes, outsourcing repetitive work or designing sophisticated customer journeys – both are possible with Zapier and Make. But which cloud-based process automation tool is better?  

To figure this out, we will examine the main features, interfaces, integration options and prices of both tools and highlight the differences. Our goal is to highlight what each automation tool does better so you can find the best tool for your needs.

What are Zapier and Make?

Zapier: Zapier is a workflow automation tool that can be used to link different web applications, transfer data, and implement process automation. This requires so-called “Zaps”, which connect two or more apps with each other. These consist of a trigger and the subsequent automated actions. You can also find a detailed guide to Zapier in our blog.

Make: Formerly known as Integromat, Make is another no-code iPaaS application. This automation tool also enables the integration of various applications in order to automate complex and repetitive work processes. The tool works with APIs, which Make represents in simplified form as “modules” that can then be easily integrated into automated scenarios. We also offer a more detailed blog post on Make.

Interface

Zapier: The interfaces of the two tools are structured very differently. Once a workflow is created in Zapier, the required apps and functions are added one by one. This results in a linear process. The disadvantage of this view is that if you want to replace a single action, you have to delete all subsequent actions and create new ones.

Overview of the Zapier interface
Zapier interface

Make: Make, on the other hand, employs a visual representation that displays all the tools used and can be edited using drag-and-drop. Individual modules can be moved and edited at will without affecting the other steps. The flexible, clear view allows for better troubleshooting and is more intuitive by our standards.

Overview of the Make interface
Make interface

Integrations

Zapier: Currently, Zapier supports the integration of over 7,000 apps and counting. These app integrations cover a wide range of categories, including artificial intelligence, communication, marketing, CRM and more. In addition, Zapier also offers the possibility to create your own app.

A selection of Zapier integrations
Zapier integrations

Make: Make offers over 1,900 app integrations, including a variety of Google apps, as well as AI, communication, marketing and CRM applications and much more. A pre-built HTTP module also allows you to connect to any app that offers an API. In addition, Make allows you to create your own apps as well.

A selection of Make integrations
Make integrations

Pricing

Zapier: A total of four pricing plans are offered on this platform:

  • Free plan
  • Professional plan ($19.99 / month)
  • Team plan ($69 / month)
  • Enterprise plan (custom pricing)

All paid plans include access to the Zapier automation platform, the visual no-code editor, unlimited app integrations, and other custom features. However, the free plan is limited to two-step Zaps, i.e. Zaps with exactly one trigger and one action, which can greatly limit your options for complex processes.

Overview of the Zapier pricing structure
Zapier pricing

Make: In comparison, Make offers five different pricing plans:

  • Free plan
  • Core plan ($9 / month)
  • Pro plan ($16 / month)
  • Teams plan ($29 / month)
  • Enterprise plan (custom pricing)

All these plans include 10,000 operations per month, i.e. every action performed in a scenario. Depending on your needs, you can also purchase additional operations at any time. Here it is already clear that Make is the more cost-efficient alternative. In addition, the number of available operations and functions gives you far more freedom when it comes to your processes.

Overview of the Make pricing structure
Make pricing

Zapier vs. Make: Pros and Cons

Finally, let's compare the main advantages and disadvantages of the two automation platforms Make and Zapier:

Zapier Pros

  • Code execution: Even though Zapier is primarily a no-code tool, it is still possible to use JavaScript or Python code for more specific requirements.
  • Number of apps: Zapier currently offers over 7,400 apps and counting.
  • Simple interface: Zapier offers a clean, beginner-friendly user interface.

Zapier Cons

  • Linear process: Simply “replacing” an app is difficult. Once you have created Zaps, it becomes tedious to change them without deleting everything.
  • Path limitation: Zaps are limited to 100 steps and allow a maximum of 3 nested paths.

Make Pros

  • Modularity: It is much easier to rearrange a process in Make. Move the modules around intuitively in the drag-and-drop editor.
  • No limits: In Make, you can add as many routes as you like to your scenarios.
  • API integration: Although it provides fewer integrations with 1,900+ apps, Make currently offers 2x more API endpoints per app than Zapier. This means you can automate more actions within one app.
  • Pricing: Make is significantly more cost-efficient than Zapier.

Make Cons

  • Limited code execution: As the focus of this platform is on no-code - which can of course also be an advantage for many - the use of code is only possible to a limited extent here.
  • Complexity: As Make is particularly suitable for specific, complex workflows, the learning curve can also be much steeper.

Getting Started

If you have already decided on one of the two tools, there are numerous options available to help you get started:

Zapier: You can find all the resources and step-by-step instructions you need in the Zapier community. There you can ask questions, exchange ideas with other Zapier users or get inspired. Zapier also offers ready-made templates as well as detailed documentation and courses.

Make: Here you will also find a community that offers you support if you have questions or need instructions and tips. You will also find courses and certifications that you can complete in the Make Academy. Finally, you will also find Make templates available here.

If you are still looking for more helpful courses for Make and Zapier, you can find the most necessary online courses summarized in our blog post here.

Zapier vs. Make: What Do We Recommend?

As a Make Gold Partner and Zapier expert, we develop process automation with both platforms. That's why we can also highly recommend both – after all, it depends on your requirements and the scope of your automation.  

Make impresses with its cost-effective pricing structure and its flexibility, which makes it possible to create complex workflows. With its drag-and-drop editor, Make is ideal for users who want to dive deep into automation and create specialized scenarios that are easy to rearrange. In addition, the multiple API integration options and the unlimited nature of the scenarios allow for extensive design freedom. However, Make requires a certain training period, which can be bridged with the help of courses and the Make community.

Zapier, on the other hand, scores with user-friendliness and a simple interface that makes it easy even for beginners to create automations. The extensive app integrations and the ability to run code make it an attractive choice for many. However, the platform can quickly become costly and offers less flexibility for complex automations.

We are also happy to support you with the analysis and subsequent automation of your business processes. Feel free to contact us at any time and arrange a consultation!

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