The Short Answer
Zapier is faster to set up and has more app integrations. Make (formerly Integromat) is more powerful, more affordable, and better for complex multi-step workflows. Beginners should start with Zapier. Power users who want to save money should move to Make.
Zapier — Speed and Simplicity
Zapier connects over 6,000 apps and can be set up in minutes without any technical knowledge. The linear trigger-action format is intuitive: “When this happens, do that.” For simple automations like adding a new email subscriber to a spreadsheet or posting a Slack notification when a form is submitted, Zapier is the fastest tool available.
The App Store integration depth is unmatched. If an app exists, Zapier probably connects to it.
Make — Power and Value
Make uses a visual canvas where you drag and drop modules and connect them with lines. It looks more complex at first, but this visual approach makes it easier to build sophisticated workflows with multiple branches, filters and error handling.
The pricing model is based on operations rather than tasks, which makes it significantly cheaper for high-volume automations. A workflow that would cost $50/month on Zapier often runs for under $10 on Make.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Zapier | Make |
|---|---|---|
| App integrations | 6,000+ | 1,500+ |
| Ease of use | Very easy | Moderate |
| Complex workflows | Limited | Excellent |
| Visual builder | Linear only | Full canvas |
| Error handling | Basic | Advanced |
| Free plan | 100 tasks/month | 1,000 ops/month |
| Paid starting price | $19/month | $9/month |
| Best for | Beginners, simple workflows | Power users, complex automations |
Verdict
Start with Zapier if you are new to automation and need something working today. Switch to Make once your workflows become more complex or your task volume makes Zapier expensive. Many power users run both.