Zapier vs Make: 14 Factors to Decide the Best One

With over 7,000 apps, Zapier is the go-to tool for simple, no-code automations. But if your workflows are getting more complex, Make (formerly Integromat) might be the smarter pick. It offers 2,000+ app integrations, real-time data control, and advanced branching logic.

As a Make Silver Tier agency, we’ve helped dozens of teams move beyond basic task automation into scalable, custom workflows that support entire operations.

So which tool should you trust? Zapier is known for its ease of use, while Make offers more power and flexibility. In this guide, we compare them across 14 key factors including integrations, error handling, workflow logic, and pricing.

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Quick Comparison Table - Zapier vs Make

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1. What’s the core difference between Zapier and Make?

The core difference between Zapier and Make lies in how they handle automation complexity and control.

Zapier is known for its simplicity. It’s ideal for users who want to create quick, no-code workflows (called Zaps) between apps like Gmail, Slack, Google Sheets, and thousands more. It focuses on ease of use and linear, step-by-step automation.

Make, on the other hand, is built for more advanced users and offers a visual editor where you can create multi-step, branching workflows with filters, routers, and real-time error handling. It gives you greater control over data processing and conditions.

In short, Zapier is best for simple, fast automation without much setup. Make is better when you need complex logic, custom paths, or more power under the hood. Your choice depends on whether you need speed and simplicity or flexibility and depth in your automation.

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2. User Interface and Ease of Use

Both tools offer visual builders, but their learning curves and flexibility are quite different. Here's how they compare.

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How beginner-friendly is Zapier’s visual workflow builder?

Zapier is designed with simplicity in mind. Its clean, step-by-step interface makes it easy for beginners to create automations without prior experience. You select a trigger, and add actions, and Zapier walks you through each step. The platform hides complex logic behind a simple UI, which is great for non-technical users.

While it doesn’t offer deep customization or branching paths, it’s perfect for straightforward workflows like sending emails, syncing data, or posting updates. If your goal is to get up and running quickly, Zapier is the more beginner-friendly option.

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Is Make harder to learn or more powerful for technical users?

Make has a steeper learning curve but offers far more control and customization. Its visual interface uses a drag-and-drop canvas where you can build workflows with multiple paths, filters, routers, and error handlers. This gives technical users the flexibility to create complex logic, map data between apps, and monitor execution in real-time.

While it may feel overwhelming at first, the modular layout is powerful once mastered. Make is best for users who want precision and advanced features, not just simple automations. It’s ideal for power users, developers, and teams building multi-step workflows.

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3. App Integrations

Both Zapier and Make support thousands of integrations, but they differ in depth and flexibility. Here's what you need to know.

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What apps and services does Zapier connect with?

Zapier connects with over 7,000+ apps, including popular tools like Gmail, Slack, Trello, Google Sheets, HubSpot, and Shopify. It supports a wide range of business, marketing, and productivity apps, making it easy to connect different parts of your workflow. Zapier focuses on accessibility—most integrations are pre-built with triggers and actions that require no coding.

While it doesn’t always offer deep customization, it’s perfect for automating common tasks across well-known tools. For teams needing fast, reliable app connections, Zapier’s integration library is one of the most extensive available.

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How deep and customizable are integrations in Make?

Make offers integrations with over 2000 apps, but what it lacks in quantity, it makes up for in depth. It allows you to access more granular settings, map custom fields, and handle complex data structures. Make also lets you connect to any app with an open API using its HTTP module, making it highly flexible.

You can build custom requests, parse JSON, and create dynamic workflows that go far beyond surface-level automation. For users who need deep customization, detailed control, and the ability to work with niche or custom tools, Make provides unmatched flexibility.

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4. Workflow Complexity

If your automation needs go beyond basic tasks, the platform’s ability to handle logic and structure becomes critical. Here’s how Zapier and Make compare.

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Can Zapier support conditional paths, multi-step flows, and branching?

Yes, Zapier supports multi-step workflows and conditional paths, but with some limitations. Using tools like "Paths" and "Filters," you can create simple logic branches—such as “if X happens, do A; if not, do B.” It also allows for delays, formatting, and some data transformation.

However, Zapier’s interface isn’t ideal for deeply nested workflows or multiple branching paths. It’s best suited for straightforward automations or slightly advanced scenarios. While it works great for most teams, users needing very granular control or complex logic may find it less flexible than Make.

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Does Make allow for complex automation logic and data transformations?

Absolutely. Make is built for advanced workflows with detailed logic, branching, and real-time data handling. You can add routers for parallel paths, filters for conditional logic, and multiple actions across apps. It supports complex data transformations, including arrays, variables, and custom functions.

Make also lets you handle errors, retries, and advanced scheduling. The visual interface gives you a clear overview of the entire flow, even with dozens of steps. For technical users or teams automating multi-layered operations, Make offers the depth and structure needed to build robust and flexible systems.

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5. Use Case Suitability

Zapier and Make shine in different environments. Let’s break down which platform fits best based on your use case.

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Is Zapier better for marketing automation and small tasks?

Yes, Zapier is a great fit for marketing teams, solo founders, and small businesses looking to automate repetitive tasks quickly. It excels at automating simple workflows like sending leads from forms to CRMs, triggering emails, or syncing data between spreadsheets and calendars.

The easy setup and wide app library make it perfect for non-technical users. If your workflows are straightforward and you want to save time on routine work without building complex systems, Zapier is the ideal starting point.

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Is Make more suited for operations, internal tools, or technical teams?

Yes, Make is better for teams that need to automate operations, backend workflows, or build complex internal tools. It allows technical users to create workflows that involve multiple systems, detailed logic, and real-time data transformation. Operations teams use it to connect CRMs, inventory systems, and analytics tools.

Developers can also integrate custom APIs, handle advanced scheduling, and manage error handling. If your team needs full control and flexibility, Make is more capable for building scalable and technical automation systems.

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6. Pre-built Templates

Both Zapier and Make offer pre-built templates to help users get started quickly, but they differ in quantity and customization options.​

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Does Zapier offer automation templates for quick setup?

Yes, Zapier provides an extensive library of over 7,000 templates designed for immediate use. These templates cover a wide range of use cases, including marketing, sales, project management, and customer support.

Each template connects popular apps with predefined triggers and actions, allowing users to set up automations without coding. The user-friendly interface and guided setup make it accessible for beginners to implement workflows efficiently. ​

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How many pre-made scenarios or templates does Make provide?

Make offers a collection of 7,000 public templates that users can customize to create new scenarios. These templates serve as a foundation, allowing for expansion and personalization to fit specific needs.

Users can also create and share their own templates within teams, enhancing collaboration. Make emphasizes flexibility and depth, catering to users who need detailed control over their automation.

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7. Advanced Features and Customization Options

Beyond basic automations, both tools offer powerful features—especially for technical users who want more control. Let’s explore what each one provides.

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What advanced features does Zapier offer to power users?

Zapier includes advanced tools like multi-step workflows, filters, delays, and formatting options. Power users can also access Webhooks, Code by Zapier (JavaScript or Python snippets), and Transfer for bulk data movement. Zapier Paths allows conditional logic, though only on higher-tier plans.

These features make it possible to handle more dynamic workflows, though Zapier still prioritizes ease over depth. While it’s not built for very complex branching, its combination of simplicity and control works well for advanced business automations without heavy coding.

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How customizable is Make for developers or technical teams?

Make is highly customizable and ideal for technical users. It supports advanced logic, real-time data mapping, and branching with routers and filters. Developers can integrate any API using HTTP modules, handle JSON structures, and run custom functions with variables and expressions. You can build error-handling paths, set up data iterations, and create nested scenarios.

Make also provides precise scheduling, logging, and execution control. It’s built for those who need full control over how data flows, transforms, and reacts—making it perfect for internal tool automation, backend workflows, and custom API-based operations.

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8. Data Handling and Flexibility

If your workflows involve structured data, arrays, or APIs, your platform's ability to process and manipulate that data matters. Here's how each tool performs.

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How well does Zapier handle arrays, JSON, and structured data?

Zapier can handle basic structured data and some JSON parsing through its Formatter and Code steps. However, its capabilities are limited when dealing with arrays or deeply nested data structures. You may need to write custom JavaScript or use third-party tools to process complex responses.

Zapier is great for straightforward data handling but becomes less practical when advanced transformation or iteration is required. For most simple use cases, it works well, but technical users may find its data processing tools lacking compared to more flexible platforms.

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Can Make process and manipulate data in more advanced ways?

Yes, Make is built to handle complex data structures with ease. It natively supports arrays, nested JSON, and iterative processing across multiple data items. You can use built-in functions to split, map, filter, or restructure data directly within your workflows.

The visual mapping tools allow you to transform inputs step by step, and routers let you branch logic based on dynamic conditions. For developers or data-heavy use cases, Make offers far more flexibility and control, making it a top choice for manipulating structured or API-sourced data.

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9. Error Handling and Debugging

Even the best automations can break. Knowing how each platform handles errors can save you time and stress. Here’s how Zapier and Make compare.

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What error tracking and alerts does Zapier offer?

Zapier provides basic error handling with email alerts and activity logs. If a Zap fails, you’ll receive a notification explaining the issue, and you can review task history to identify what went wrong. Some errors can be replayed manually after fixing the root cause.

However, Zapier doesn’t support conditional retries, error branches, or detailed debugging tools. It’s built more for reliability than deep troubleshooting. For simple automations, Zapier’s alerts are usually enough, but for advanced workflows, the lack of detailed control can be limiting.

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Is Make better for debugging and monitoring automation?

Yes, Make offers much deeper error handling and debugging features. You can visually track each step of your scenario in real time, view inputs and outputs, and isolate where things failed. Make allows you to create custom error routes, retries, and even notifications for failed operations.

You can pause execution, inspect data, and rerun failed steps with detailed logs for each module. For users managing complex workflows or critical automations, Make provides far better visibility and control, making it the preferred tool for monitoring and fixing issues efficiently.

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10. AI Integration

Both Zapier and Make offer AI integrations, but they cater to different levels of complexity and customization.​

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Does Zapier integrate with AI tools like ChatGPT or OpenAI?

Yes, Zapier provides seamless integrations with AI tools such as ChatGPT and OpenAI. Users can automate tasks like content generation, summarization, and data extraction by connecting ChatGPT with various apps like Gmail, Slack, and Google Sheets.

Zapier's user-friendly interface allows for quick setup of AI-powered workflows without the need for coding. While it excels in simplicity and speed, it may offer limited customization for more complex AI tasks. ​

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How does Make use AI in workflow creation or enhancement?

Make offers robust AI integration capabilities, supporting tools like OpenAI, Anthropic Claude, and Google Vertex AI. Its visual workflow builder allows users to design intricate automations that incorporate AI for tasks such as data enrichment, content creation, and decision-making processes.

Make's flexibility enables the handling of complex logic, real-time data processing, and custom API calls, making it ideal for technical users seeking advanced AI-driven workflows.

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11. Scalability for Growing Automation Needs

As your business grows, your automation platform should grow with it. Here’s how Zapier and Make handle increasing scale and complexity.

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Can Zapier handle high-volume workflows and scale with your team?

Yes, Zapier can handle high-volume workflows, especially with its higher-tier plans that offer increased task limits, advanced features, and priority support. It works well for growing teams that need to automate across multiple departments without heavy technical setup. Shared folders, team access controls, and user roles help manage collaboration.

However, as workflows become more complex, Zapier’s linear structure may become a limitation. It’s best for teams scaling straightforward automations that need to remain easy to build and maintain without deep customization.

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Is Make better suited for scaling automation in large businesses?

Make is well-suited for large teams and enterprise automation. Its ability to create modular, multi-layered workflows with branching logic and data mapping makes it ideal for scaling across departments. It supports custom API connections, high execution volumes, and granular control over processes.

Make also offers organization-level management, team collaboration tools, scenario versioning, and detailed execution logs. For businesses with complex operational needs and technical teams ready to manage sophisticated workflows, Make provides the structure and flexibility required to scale confidently and efficiently.

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12. Support and Documentation Quality

Reliable support and clear documentation are essential when building and troubleshooting automations. Here's how Zapier and Make compare in these areas.​

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What kind of customer support does Zapier offer?

Zapier provides a tiered support system. All users have access to a comprehensive Help Center and community forums. Pro plan users with a task limit of 2,000+ and accounts on Teams and Enterprise plans can access live chat support within Zapier.

Additionally, Zapier offers email support via a contact form, allowing the support team to access technical information in your account to troubleshoot issues.

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Is Make’s documentation and support helpful for new users?

Make offers extensive documentation, including detailed tutorials on various functions, mapping exercises, and features suitable for both beginners and intermediate users. The Make Community is active, providing a platform for users to share insights and seek assistance.

While some users have noted that not all modules have comprehensive descriptions, the available resources, including the Make Academy and Partner Training Portal, offer a solid foundation for users to learn and troubleshoot effectively.

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13. Switching Platforms

If you're considering changing platforms, it's important to understand what's involved in the transition. Here's what to know about moving between Zapier and Make.

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Can you transition from Zapier to Make or vice versa?

Yes, you can switch between Zapier and Make, but there’s no one-click migration. You’ll need to manually recreate your workflows on the new platform. Zapier’s step-by-step layout is easier to replicate in Make’s visual canvas than the other way around.

However, if your workflows use advanced features or custom logic, replicating them may require some adjustments. It’s doable, but time-consuming, especially for complex automations.

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What should you consider when moving your workflows?

Before switching, review all existing workflows to map triggers, actions, and logic. Note which apps are integrated, check for feature parity, and test the new setup in stages. Also consider team training, access control changes, and pricing differences.

If you're moving from Zapier to Make, be prepared for more setup but greater flexibility. If switching to Zapier, expect faster setup but reduced control over complex flows.

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14. When to Choose Each Tool

Your choice depends on your technical comfort, team needs, and how complex your workflows are. Here’s when each tool fits best.

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When should you choose Zapier over Make?

Choose Zapier if your goal is to build quick, reliable automations without a steep learning curve. It’s ideal for solo founders, marketers, and small teams who want to connect popular apps like Gmail, Slack, Google Sheets, or HubSpot in just a few clicks.

If your workflows are mostly linear and you prefer a user-friendly interface over deep customization, Zapier is the smarter choice. It’s especially helpful when speed, simplicity, and ease of collaboration across tools matter more than building deeply technical systems.

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When does Make.com make more sense than Zapier?

Make is the better choice when your workflows require advanced logic, custom API calls, or data-heavy processing. It’s perfect for technical teams, operations staff, or developers who need visual control over every step of a process. If you’re handling complex backend systems, multi-path flows, or real-time data manipulation, Make offers far more flexibility.

It’s also ideal if you need granular debugging, detailed error handling, and scalability across custom-built tools or lesser-known APIs. For power users, Make delivers more depth and automation control.