These tools all automate “when this happens, do that.” Differences show up in hosting, Microsoft fit, and how complex the logic gets.
Rough guide
- Zapier: fast connectors, great for lighter SaaS glue; watch task costs as volume grows
- n8n: strong when you want self-hosting and heavier logic under your control
- Power Automate: natural inside Microsoft 365 and Dataverse-heavy workplaces
We treat them as delivery options under Workflow Automation, not as separate products. If a step needs AI judgment, add an AI step—or graduate to an agent when the path is no longer fixed.