

Make is a no-code platform that allows users to build automations with modular building blocks like a LEGO set by connecting all the blocks in a linear chain of triggers to create triggers followed by logic for each trigger, the outcome of which are actions. Through these actions users can do anything from sending emails to updating spreadsheets. With a large number of integrations available for Google Sheets and Salesforce just to name two, Make allows users to create very complex automated systems without actually writing any code.
If you are using it for very basic things like syncing your emails to your CRM, creating newsletter campaigns, etc. The interface is easy to use and there are lots of resources available for reference, Support Forum is full of users that are active using the platform. Small businesses and Startup Medium sized businesses would also find this a great product for them, as it would allow them to get started quickly and with little learning curve. Though, as the user starts using more complex features, or working with other data sources that aren't integrated, issues arise with Make. Issues include either a lack of pre-existing modules for niche outside of API's, a lack of ability to successfully handle large amounts of real-time streaming data or a sudden increase in cost as scaling occurs.
Make also has difficulty in the Cryptocurrency Industry because there isn't a way to use the provided App Store directly with block-chain nodes, DeFi API's or on-chain transactions. Users are left trying to build complicated trigger chains using Webhook consumer APIs or other third-party services, which increases processing times leading to errors. This is especially critical in the cases of Arbitrage monitoring and Whale Monitoring due to the speed of the cryptocurrency market, leading to crucial errors that can occur with these two categories of businesses.
Make is great for starting out, but when your requirements are complex and dynamic, it proves to be a limited platform. Your main reasons for looking for an alternative are as follows:
Firstly, the costs associated with Make can be quite high. Each operation that you perform on Make will incur a cost, and those costs will quickly add up. In addition to the hundreds of dollars a month spent on token monitoring, and lead scoring, there are many cases where you may incur hundreds of dollars for failed API requests as well. With a self-hosted solution such as n8n, you could set up your own server for a cost of $20-$50, with no limits on operational usage.
Secondly, Make is a low-specialized tool. In this respect, it has a "swiss army knife" of automation capabilities. While this is good for a wide variety of industries, there are many instances in which an industry such as crypto requires more than just a universal solution. In the case of crypto, you require a more specialized set of tooling to handle tasks like direct interaction with a blockchain node, aggregation of DeFi, analysis of sentiment on social media, and compliance with financial regulations. Make's universal modules only allow for the most basic levels of automation, while the remaining areas will require you to write custom code and develop webhooks, which makes maintenance difficult and increases the time needed to respond.
Thirdly, there is a high level of vendor dependency when using Make. When Make goes down, your entire business process will come to a stop. With self-hosted solutions, you have a higher level of control over your business processes. You can create backups of your processes and configure them to be fault-tolerant, giving you a sense of security and confidence.
Finally, Make offers limited customization options. While Make's visual editor is useful for simple scenarios, as soon as you start adding complex, nested conditions and loops, the visual editor becomes a huge mess and is nearly impossible to debug and maintain. Platforms such as Make, which allow for Python or JavaScript scripting, offer more flexibility and will allow for you to create more streamlined scenarios than will Make.
Based on experiences from many crypto projects, it is clear that while Make works well for getting started, as your business grows, the time to consider switching to a more specialized solution will eventually arrive.
The no-code automation market is on track for growth over the next few years, and there are four prominent types of no-code automation being used in 2026:
Universal Cloud Automation Platforms provide basic no-code automation capabilities to connect popular cloud applications together. Examples include Zapier, Make, and Automate.io. Customers can expect fast initial deployment of such services, but rising costs and inflexible workflows will likely become challenges.
Enterprise-level solutions include Microsoft Power Automate, Workato, and Tray.io, which are designed specifically for larger companies that require strong security, scalability, and compliance. Monthly pricing starts at several hundred dollars per month, offering enough capabilities to power many complex enterprise workflows.
Self-Hosted, Open Source Platforms (e.g., n8n, Activepieces) allow users complete control over their infrastructure and data. Therefore, they can also offer considerable savings for teams with the required technical expertise. Self-hosting is a strong choice in industries where hi-tech businesses and privacy protection are concerns.
Specialized Platforms include ASCN.AI, which focuses on Web3 and AI agents; Pabbly Connect, a low-cost alternative to Zapier; and IFTTT, which supports simple IoT scenarios. As these platforms target specialized use cases, universal platforms will likely ignore them at this stage of the evolution of automation technology.
Companies that have deployed no-code automation solutions typically see a reduction in labor costs of between 40-60% for repetitive types of work. Many companies (over 70%) will be required to migrate away from their no-code platforms within their first year, according to data from McKinsey Digital (2025). Selecting an automation solution will be a part of an overall strategy, rather than being viewed as a "set it and forget" decision.

ASCN.AI is a no-code automation technology focused on the cryptocurrency ecosystem. This technology utilizes AI agents powered by modern large language models. ASCN directly connects to Ethereum and Solana Blockchains and offers real-time indexing and analytics of Web3 Data through the use of its API; whereas Make and Zapier provide only an interface for building workflows.
AI Workflow Tool: The tool allows for scenarios where the AI Agent evaluates the tokenomics of a project, compares it against another project's tokenomics, and makes recommendations to the user, rather than simply executing the user's request without deviation.
Proprietary Data: In addition to on-chain metrics like whale activity and DEX trading volumes, proprietary sources provide additional data not typically found through standard API's.
Exchange Integration: ASCN Direct provides out-of-the-box access to many major exchanges (e.g., Binance, Bybit, OKX), and other services (e.g., wallets, DeFi Protocols, Telegram Bots).
White-Label and API: ASCN Direct also provides an API that can be integrated into your own products, making it easy to build custom solutions using on-chain metrics.
Pricing for ASCN.AI is based on a subscription model with fixed monthly fees and no charges based on usage like those of Make and Zapier.
As there are no fees per operation, users can expect to save hundreds of dollars per month in terms of budget predictability, even during peak usage times.
Speed: Typically, AI assistants produce results within 10 to 30 seconds, and can process tens of thousands of data sources at the same time.
Zapier is among the oldest and most recognized cloud-based no-code builders with over 6,000 integration options with other SaaS products. The primary selling feature of Zapier is that it is user-friendly for those without a technical background.
Microsoft Power Automate is considered to be an enterprise-level platform within the Microsoft Ecosystem as it has been focused on meeting the needs of organizations that have a strong need for automation. Due to this integration, Microsoft Power Automate is able to take advantage of existing investments in Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365, Azure and Teams. Therefore, Microsoft Power Automate allows for integration of Cloud Flow with RPA (Robotic Process Automation) and the ability to automate and/or optimize strategic business processes. In addition to these aspects, Microsoft Power Automate was built to be compliant with Security Regulations and Standards such as GDPR & HIPAA. Also, a feature that Microsoft Power Automate has is an AI Builder.
Microsoft Power Automate starts at $15 per user per month or $100 per process for an organization. For Organizations that are already subscribed to Microsoft 365, many of Microsoft Power Automate's features will already be included in their existing subscriptions.
Microsoft Power Automate has very powerful features and functionality; however, it does require a relatively steep learning curve (high entry barrier) and not all of the connectors to the Microsoft Power Automate platform and the Microsoft 365 Cloud Ecosystem are very stable when connecting to other third-party (non-Microsoft) services.
Pros: Deep integration with Microsoft 365, RPA & AI Builder, Very high Security, & Regulatory compliance.
Cons: Very steep learning curve, Some unstable connectors, and Locking in to the Microsoft Ecosystem.
Workato is an enterprise-level Integration Platform as a Service (iPaaS). Workato offers an expansive library of over 1200 Integrations built specifically for automating complex business processes. Workato also has a very powerful Version Control platform and allows for the use of Custom Connectors using Ruby, as well as Workbot for both Slack & Teams.
Workato pricing starts at $10,000. There are no "tiered budget" levels and is targeted at large enterprises who have high security and scalability demands.
Users love the breadth of Workato integrations and their overall reliability, but most users would agree on two things: One — it's costly, and two — it is difficult to learn to use the complete capabilities of the Workato platform.
Pros: 1200+ Integrations, Recipe Lifecycle Management, Workbot for Slack & Teams, Support for Custom Connectors using Ruby.
Cons: It costs a lot, takes a long time to learn how to use it properly and there isn't anywhere to get started with them without spending a fortune.
This is an alternative to Zapier. The price is significantly lower than Zapier's and they are targeting small business customers with about 200 integrations. They allow you to automate a series of complex activities by providing the ability to automate the entire workflow with webhooks and by using APIs to create multiple-step processes.
Starts at $9.99 per month for 3,000 actions. There is also a free plan that has 300 actions.
The advantages of Automate.io are affordability and the ease of use. The disadvantages include the small selection of integration options and issues surrounding stability.
Pros: Affordable and easy to use, allows for automated workflows to be created using webhooks, multi-step workflows.
Cons: Approximately 200 integrations available and reports that Automate.io's stability is questionable.
Tray.io's low-code platform allows customers to create workflows using drag-and-drop tools or code (JavaScript or Python) to create complex workflow scenarios. In addition to this flexibility, Tray.io also offers the most advanced data transformation, API management capabilities, and embedded iPaaS functionality on the market today for SaaS providers.
Tray.io's pricing starts at $15,000 per year, aimed at larger enterprise customers that require extensive customization and scalable solutions.
Customers give Tray.io high marks for being flexible and powerful, but there is a common thread regarding the cost and complexity being significant obstacles for many customers.
Pros: Advanced data transformation capabilities and support for JavaScript and Python, embedded integration platform as a service (iPaaS) for SaaS businesses.
Cons: High price and steep learning curve.
Pabbly Connect allows you to create unlimited automated workflows at no additional cost. Only external tasks associated with your workflows will be counted against your plan. Internal filters are free to use, so they do not cost anything. Pabbly Connect provides access to a premium-level integration platform, and customers may use webhooks to automate these integrations.
Pabbly Connect pricing starts at $19 per month. Customers also can subscribe to a lifetime plan that provides a one-time purchase option for lifetime access.
The primary advantage of Pabbly Connect is its affordability. The disadvantages include a lack of stability and limited options for use in complex scenarios.
Advantages: Cost-effective, unlimited workflows available, possibility for a lifetime subscription.
Disadvantages: Stability concerns, limited in application for complex scenarios.
IFTTT is very popular for home automation and other straightforward consumer applications. Currently, it supports more than 700 household appliance and service integrations.
IFTTT Pricing starts at only $2.50 per month. It's economical, simple, and not meant for the more complex commercial solutions.
Many users report that IFTTT is easy to use, but has only limited capabilities and if you are a company, it does not integrate well with corporate systems.
Advantages: Low cost, simple to use, great for home automation and IoT applications.
Disadvantages: Limited capability, doesn't integrate well for companies.
With n8n, you can manage the entire infrastructure and data yourself as you can implement it on your own server. In addition, it allows for the use of custom JavaScript, has around 400 integrations and has a flexible workflow editor.
Pricing is based on the server you choose, so expect around $5 to $20 per month for that. n8n Cloud Service begins at $20. n8n is very much a cloud service used by most Fintech and Healthtech tech teams.
The information reported about n8n is that they provide users with control over their content and lower costs compared to other platforms. However, users also expressed a need for technical abilities to set up and maintain the self-hosted version and provided limited support to do so.
Advantages: Opensource, user control of data, low cost, support for JavaScript.
Disadvantages: Needs a technical level of understanding, limited support.
Make (formerly Integromat) provides a visual editor, many different types of integration opportunities, and has very few barriers when it comes to usability. It is possible to automate very complex use cases and integrate APIs at the same time with the use of the Make platform. While the Make platform provides lots of opportunities for automation, it struggles with large quantities of traffic. The pricing for Make is relatively low ($9 per month), but as usage increases, the cost of using the platform will also increase significantly when compared to other similar platforms where costs remain the same regardless of the amount of usage.
When reviewing Make, users love the way it works, the number of integrations, and the ability to be able to automate with an easy-to-use visual interface. However, on the downside, Make tends to be expensive as you increase the amount of automation you are performing and does not specialize in crypto or real-time automation.
| Platform | Multiple-Step Scenarios | Supports Code | Self Hosted | AI Agent(s) | IoT Integration | Enterprise Capability | Starting Monthly Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASCN.AI | Yes | API Only | No | Yes (Web3) | No | Yes | $29 |
| Zapier | Yes | Limited | No | No | Partial | Partial | $20 |
| Power Automate | Yes | Power FX, C# | Partial | Yes (AI Building Tool) | Yes | Yes | $15 |
| Workato | Yes | Ruby | Partial | Partial | No | Yes | Starting at $833 |
| Automate.io | Yes | No | No | No | Partial | No | $9.99 |
| Tray.io | Yes | Python, JavaScript | Partial | Partial | No | Yes | Starting at $1,250 |
| Pabbly Connect | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | $19 |
| IFTTT | No | No | No | No | Yes | No | $2.50 |
| N8N | Yes | Javascript | Yes | Partial | Partial | Partial | $20 |
| Make | Yes | Limited | No | No | Partial | Partial | $9 |
ASCN.AI has the best pricing approach, with a regular pricing structure and no charges per task. Due to an increase in volume, Zapier and Make can cost hundreds of dollars monthly. Enterprise Products like Workato and Tray IO start at thousands of dollars per year. Self-hosted n8n costs just the price of a server, which ranges between $5 and $20 monthly.
Zapier and Make provide the best user interface design and fastest time to get started. ASCN.AI has excellent customer support and has a low barrier of entry into the world of crypto automation. Power Automate and Workato require more time on the part of an employee to become fully developed, however, they also provide many of the available options available that support very robust corporate capability. N8N is designed for technical development teams that are willing to establish and maintain their own infrastructure.
The best thing you can do is figure out what your budget is, who will be working with you, what specific tasks you need automated, and what your security needs are. If you need a budget-friendly solution, you can go with Automate.io, Pabbly Connect, or IFTTT. If you have developers that can handle self-hosted systems and have coding skills, then n8n or Tray.io would be the best options for you. If you are in the crypto industry, then ASCN.AI would be the best option for you because it is built from the ground up to utilize their blockchain and artificial intelligence agents. Microsoft 365 users will find that Power Automate is the best option because it has the easiest integration to 365 and offers the highest level of security. For larger companies with higher demands, Workato is the best option.
To migrate from Make to another platform, you first need to analyze the current scenarios you have created by creating a list of them. The next step is to identify what key triggers and actions are required for each scenario.
Next, you need to identify the new platform you want to migrate to and ensure that the new platform meets your requirements.
After that, create a pilot workflow to test the new platform and ensure that it works for you.
Finally, run both systems in parallel while comparing the results of the migrated workflows.
Start the migration of your scenarios with the simplest one and work your way to the more complex workflows.
Be sure to document your processes on your new platform and train your team on how to use the new platform.
Generally speaking, the average time for migration will range from about two weeks for very small projects to potentially several months for much larger or more complex projects.

The automation market is moving toward the specialization of automation platforms. AI agents are slowly but surely replacing rigid rule-based automation. Self-hosted solutions will continue to become more prevalent in the privacy-conscious communities, while the use of embedded automations within SaaS products will become the norm. According to Forrester Research, a specialized platform can decrease a routine operation's workload by as much as 55% to 70%, while also increasing the accuracy of their overall data processing efforts by 40%.