A Comprehensive Guide to n8n Cloud and Self-Hosted Deployment Options

1. Introduction: Understanding n8n and the Choice of Deployment

n8n stands out as a highly adaptable workflow automation platform, distinguished by its open-source foundation and extensive capabilities for integrating diverse applications and services.1 Its node-based architecture empowers users to visually construct intricate automation sequences, connecting various tools and functionalities to streamline business processes without necessitating deep-seated coding expertise. This inherent flexibility positions n8n as a powerful solution for a wide range of automation needs.

The deployment of software fundamentally involves a choice between two primary models. The cloud-hosted model, often referred to as Software as a Service (SaaS), entails utilizing a version of the software that is hosted and managed by the vendor. In this scenario, the user typically accesses the software through a web browser, and the vendor takes on the responsibility for all underlying infrastructure and maintenance. Conversely, the self-hosted model requires the user to install and operate the software on their own infrastructure, whether it be a local machine, a private server, or a virtual instance in the cloud. This approach grants the user greater control over the environment but also places the onus of management on them.

This report aims to provide a detailed and expert-level comparison between n8n's cloud and self-hosted deployment options. By examining critical aspects such as hosting, maintenance, scalability, control, cost implications, and the availability of integrations, this analysis seeks to equip readers with the comprehensive understanding required to make an informed decision about which deployment method best aligns with their specific technical skills, resources, and organizational objectives. The ultimate goal is to facilitate a deployment choice that maximizes the benefits of n8n's automation capabilities while minimizing potential challenges.

2. n8n Cloud: A Managed Automation Platform

2.1. Hosting and Maintenance: The Convenience of a Cloud Service

n8n cloud presents itself as a fully managed automation platform where the complexities of infrastructure are entirely handled by the n8n team.1 This encompasses a wide array of responsibilities, including the initial provisioning of servers, the installation and configuration of the operating system, the deployment and ongoing updates of the n8n software itself, the implementation of necessary security measures and patches, the administration of the underlying database system, and continuous monitoring to ensure optimal uptime and performance.1 This comprehensive management by n8n significantly alleviates the burden on the user.

A key advantage of this managed service model is the substantial reduction in operational overhead for the user.1 By entrusting the intricacies of infrastructure management to n8n, users are freed from the need to possess or acquire in-depth server administration skills. This allows them to dedicate their time, resources, and expertise to the core task of leveraging n8n: designing, building, and efficiently running their automation workflows. The focus shifts from managing servers to achieving business automation objectives.

Snippet 1 aptly illustrates the streamlined onboarding process associated with n8n cloud, stating that users can get started by simply providing their credit card details and registering, with their instance up and running within minutes. This immediacy highlights the significant time-to-value proposition offered by the cloud deployment model, allowing users to quickly begin automating their processes without the delays associated with setting up and configuring their own infrastructure.

2.2. Scalability and Performance in the Cloud

n8n cloud is engineered to provide seamless scalability, automatically adjusting the underlying infrastructure resources based on the demands of the user's automation workflows.4 While the precise mechanisms for this automatic scaling may differ across the various pricing plans, n8n generally manages the allocation of processing power and memory to accommodate fluctuations in workload. This eliminates the need for users to manually intervene and scale their server resources as their automation needs evolve.

However, it is important to note that the scalability and performance characteristics within n8n cloud are also governed by the limitations inherent in the chosen pricing tier, as outlined in snippets 6 and.6 These limitations can include monthly caps on the number of workflow executions, restrictions on the number of concurrently running active workflows, limits on the number of parallel executions, and maximum allowable execution times for individual workflow runs. Users must carefully evaluate their anticipated automation workload and performance requirements to select a plan that adequately meets their needs and avoids potential bottlenecks.

Snippet 7 provides specific details regarding the resource allocation for different n8n cloud offerings, such as the Starter and Pro plans. This includes information on the amount of RAM and the burstable CPU capacity allocated to each plan, offering users a more tangible understanding of the underlying infrastructure capabilities they can expect. This transparency aids in making informed decisions about which plan best aligns with their performance expectations.

2.3. Control and Customization within the n8n Cloud Environment

While n8n cloud abstracts away the complexities of infrastructure management, it still empowers users with a substantial degree of control over their automation initiatives.6 Users retain complete autonomy in designing the logical flow of their workflows, selecting from a comprehensive library of pre-built integrations that connect to a vast ecosystem of applications and services, and configuring these integrations to meet their specific requirements. This control at the application level ensures that users can tailor n8n to their unique automation needs.

Furthermore, n8n cloud offers powerful customization options that extend beyond the pre-built nodes. The inclusion of the Code node allows users to embed custom JavaScript or Python code directly within their workflows, enabling the implementation of complex logic and the manipulation of data in highly specific ways.6 Additionally, the HTTP Request node provides the capability to interact with virtually any service that exposes an Application Programming Interface (API), significantly expanding n8n's integration potential beyond its native node library.

It is important to acknowledge that n8n cloud, by its nature as a managed service, offers less direct control over the underlying server infrastructure compared to a self-hosted deployment. Users typically do not have access to the operating system level, cannot install custom server-level software, or fine-tune low-level system configurations. This trade-off is inherent in the convenience offered by a cloud-based platform.

2.4. Exploring n8n Cloud Pricing and Feature Tiers (Starter, Pro, Enterprise)

Prospective users can also take advantage of a free trial offered for the Starter and Pro plans, allowing them to explore the features and functionality of n8n cloud firsthand before committing to a paid subscription. This trial period provides a valuable opportunity to assess the platform's suitability for their specific automation requirements.

3. n8n Self-Hosted: Taking Control of Your Automation Infrastructure

3.1. Hosting and Maintenance: Responsibilities and Considerations

Choosing to self-host n8n means that the user takes on the responsibility of installing and running the platform on their own infrastructure.1 This infrastructure can take various forms, ranging from a local development machine to dedicated physical servers located on-premises, virtual private servers (VPS) rented from hosting providers, or virtual machine instances provisioned through major cloud computing platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure.1 The flexibility in choosing the hosting environment allows users to tailor it to their specific needs and budget.

However, this flexibility comes with a comprehensive set of responsibilities that the user must manage.1These responsibilities include the initial setup and configuration of the chosen server, the installation and ongoing maintenance of the operating system (including applying security updates and patches), the installation and subsequent updating of the n8n software itself, the configuration and management of the underlying database system (which n8n supports with options like SQLite for simpler setups and PostgreSQL for more robust production environments, as mentioned in 8), the implementation and upkeep of robust security measures to protect the n8n instance and the sensitive data it processes, and the critical task of diagnosing and resolving any issues or downtime that may occur.1 As highlighted in snippet 1, in a self-hosted scenario, the user is directly responsible for ensuring the stability and availability of the server and its resources.

For many users, particularly those with some technical familiarity, the use of Docker is a highly recommended approach for deploying and managing n8n in a self-hosted environment.1 Docker containerization simplifies the installation process by packaging n8n and all its dependencies into a single, portable unit. This ensures a consistent runtime environment across different systems and makes it easier to manage and update the n8n instance. Docker also aids in isolating n8n from other applications running on the same server, enhancing stability and security.

3.2. Scalability Options for Self-Hosted n8n

Achieving scalability in a self-hosted n8n environment is entirely within the user's control and depends directly on the infrastructure choices and management strategies they employ.6 Users can opt to vertically scale their server by upgrading its resources, such as increasing the amount of CPU processing power, Random Access Memory (RAM), and storage capacity, to handle a greater workload. This approach is often the simplest for initial scaling needs.

For more demanding scenarios, users can implement horizontal scaling techniques, which involve setting up multiple instances of n8n running in parallel behind a load balancer. This distributes the workload across several servers, enhancing both performance and resilience. This level of scaling typically requires more advanced technical knowledge and infrastructure management capabilities.

Snippet 13 offers valuable practical guidance by providing different resource level recommendations tailored to various levels of production traffic, categorized as low, moderate, and high. These recommendations offer a starting point for users to estimate their infrastructure needs based on their anticipated scale of automation. For instance, for a growing operation with several concurrent workflows, the snippet suggests a moderate traffic setup with 4 vCPUs, 8-16 GB RAM, and 40-80 GB SSD.

In self-hosted cloud environments, users can also leverage container orchestration platforms like Kubernetes.14 Kubernetes can automate the deployment, scaling, and management of containerized n8n instances, providing a more robust and scalable architecture for complex and high-demand deployments. This approach allows for dynamic scaling of resources based on real-time utilization, optimizing both performance and cost.

3.3. Full Control and Customization Capabilities

One of the primary advantages of self-hosting n8n is the unparalleled level of control it provides over the entire automation environment.2 Users have unrestricted access to the underlying file system, the operating system, and the database, allowing for deep-level configuration and optimization tailored to their specific needs.2 This granular control extends to network settings, security protocols, and the ability to integrate with other self-hosted services or internal systems in a highly customized manner.

Furthermore, self-hosting enables users to leverage the vibrant n8n community by installing custom community-developed nodes, which extend the platform's integration capabilities beyond the core set of pre-built nodes.15 For organizations with highly specific or niche requirements, self-hosting offers the unique ability to develop and integrate proprietary nodes tailored precisely to their internal systems or unique workflows. As n8n is open-source, users with sufficient development expertise even have the option to directly examine and modify the n8n source code itself to implement highly specialized functionalities or integrations, granting an unparalleled degree of customization.1

This level of control and customization is particularly beneficial for organizations operating under strict data privacy regulations or those requiring highly customized setups that go beyond the standard capabilities typically offered by cloud-based platforms.3 Self-hosting ensures complete data sovereignty, as all data remains within the user's infrastructure, and allows for the implementation of bespoke security protocols and compliance measures that align precisely with the organization's policies and industry standards.

3.4. System Requirements for Running a Sizable n8n Server

To effectively run a sizable n8n server in a self-hosted environment, it is crucial to understand the minimum and recommended system requirements, which can be gleaned from snippets 13 and.8 The definition of "sizable" can vary depending on the specific use case, but generally implies a setup that handles a significant number of active workflows, a high volume of workflow executions, and potentially large datasets.

When determining the necessary system resources, several key factors should be considered. These include the anticipated number of concurrently running active workflows, the expected frequency and volume of workflow executions (daily, weekly, or monthly), the typical size and complexity of the data being processed within the workflows, and the desired level of performance and responsiveness for the automation tasks. Workflows that involve processing large files or interacting with numerous external services will naturally demand more resources.

Based on the official n8n documentation in snippet 8, a minimum starting point for a production-ready self-hosted n8n server would include at least 10 CPU cycles (though the documentation notes that memory is often a more critical factor), a database with 512MB to 4GB of Solid State Drive (SSD) storage (with PostgreSQL being the strongly recommended option for production deployments due to its robustness and features), and a minimum of 320MB to 2GB of Random Access Memory (RAM).

Snippet 13 provides more specific and practical recommendations based on different levels of anticipated traffic for production environments:

• For a low-traffic production setup, suitable for small teams or low-frequency workflows, the recommendation is 2 virtual CPUs (vCPUs), 4-8 GB of RAM, and 20-40 GB of SSD storage.
• For a moderate-traffic production environment, designed for growing operations with several concurrent workflows, the suggested configuration is 4 vCPUs, 8-16 GB of RAM, and 40-80 GB of SSD storage (with a preference for faster input/output operations).
• For a high-traffic or enterprise-level production deployment, intended for high-volume and complex workflows with many concurrent executions, the recommendation is 8 or more vCPUs, 16 or more GB of RAM, and 80 or more GB of SSD storage, with considerations for scaling storage as needed.

The n8n documentation in snippet 8 also explicitly recommends the use of SSD storage for optimal performance, as it significantly improves data access speeds, which is particularly important for database operations and the overall responsiveness of the n8n instance.

4. Cost Analysis: Cloud vs. Self-Hosted

4.1. Detailed Breakdown of n8n Cloud Pricing

The n8n cloud offering employs a tiered subscription model designed to cater to varying levels of usage and feature requirements, as detailed in snippets 6, and.6 The Starter plan, ideal for individuals and small teams embarking on their automation journey, is priced at $24 per month or $20 per month when billed annually. This plan provides a monthly allowance of 2,500 workflow executions, accommodates up to 5 active workflows alongside unlimited test workflows, includes 1 shared project for basic collaboration, offers community support via the n8n forum, and allows for 5 concurrent workflow executions.6

For teams with more substantial automation needs and a requirement for enhanced collaboration, the Pro plan is available at $60 per month or $50 per month with annual billing. This tier significantly increases the monthly workflow execution limit to 10,000 (with options to upgrade to 50,000 executions for $120 per month), supports 15 active workflows (with similar upgrade options), includes 3 shared projects for more extensive team collaboration, introduces admin roles for user management and access control, provides the functionality of global variables for streamlined workflow management, retains workflow execution history for up to 5 days for debugging and auditing, enables execution search for efficient troubleshooting, and offers email support in addition to the forum support provided in the Starter plan.6

Organizations with stringent security, performance, and compliance requirements can opt for the Enterprise plan, for which pricing is customized based on their specific needs and scale. Interested parties must contact n8n directly to obtain a tailored quote.6 This plan offers highly scalable resources, including customizable limits for workflow executions and active workflows, supports unlimited shared projects for large-scale team collaboration, allows for 200 or more concurrent executions to handle high-throughput automation, incorporates advanced security features such as SSO with SAML and LDAP, facilitates the management of multiple environments (development, staging, production), enables integration with external secret management systems for enhanced security, provides log streaming for real-time monitoring and debugging, supports version control using Git for robust workflow management, offers flexible scaling options to adapt to evolving needs, provides extended data retention for up to one year for compliance purposes, includes dedicated support with defined Service Level Agreements (SLAs), and offers invoice billing for simplified procurement processes.6

A significant advantage of n8n cloud's pricing model is its focus on workflow executions rather than individual operations or steps within a workflow, as highlighted in snippets 9 and.6 This execution-based pricing can be particularly cost-effective for complex workflows with numerous steps, as users are only billed once per complete workflow run, offering a more predictable and potentially lower cost compared to platforms that charge for each individual action. Furthermore, n8n offers a free trial for its Starter and Pro plans, allowing prospective users to experience the platform's capabilities firsthand before committing to a paid subscription.6

4.2. Estimating the Costs of Self-Hosting

4.2.1. Virtual Private Server (VPS) and Cloud Instance Pricing (AWS, Google Cloud, Azure)

The cost of self-hosting n8n can vary considerably depending on the chosen hosting provider, the specific type and size of the server instance, and the geographical region where the server is located. For users opting for a Virtual Private Server (VPS), which offers a balance of performance and affordability, basic plans suitable for running n8n can often be found in the range of $5 to $20 per month, as suggested by snippets 5, and.20 Providers like Hostinger, OVH Cloud, and Contabo are often cited as offering cost-effective VPS options for this purpose.

For users seeking the scalability and reliability of major cloud computing platforms, the pricing structures of AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure offer a wide range of options:

• AWS: Amazon Web Services provides several avenues for self-hosting n8n. AWS Lightsail, as referenced in snippets , and , is often considered a user-friendly and cost-effective option for simpler deployments. Instances with sufficient resources for moderate n8n workloads can start from around $5 to $7 per month. For more demanding workloads or the need for greater customization, users can opt for Amazon EC2, as mentioned in. However, EC2's pricing is more complex and varies significantly based on the chosen instance type, compute resources, storage options, and data transfer.

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• Google Cloud: Google Cloud Platform offers Compute Engine instances suitable for self-hosting n8n, as discussed in snippets , and. Notably, Google Cloud offers a free tier that includes an e2-micro instance, which can be utilized for running a basic n8n setup for testing or low-usage scenarios. For more sizable workloads, paid Compute Engine instances with adequate CPU, RAM, and storage can range from approximately $20 to $100 or more per month, depending on the selected machine type and resources.

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• Azure: Microsoft Azure provides a wide array of Virtual Machine series that can be used to self-host n8n, as referenced in snippets , and. The starting prices for Azure VMs vary considerably across different series, from a few dollars per month for basic instances to hundreds of dollars for high-performance machines. For a sizable n8n server, instances in the D-series or similar general-purpose series, which offer a balance of compute and memory, might be appropriate, with monthly costs potentially ranging from around $40 to $150 or more depending on the specific configuration and region.

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4.2.2. Considerations for CPU, RAM, and Storage

The selection of appropriate CPU, RAM, and storage resources is paramount for the performance and stability of a self-hosted n8n server, and these choices directly impact the overall cost of the server instance. Generally, higher specifications in these areas will translate to increased monthly expenses from hosting providers or cloud platforms.

As discussed in Section 3.4, the system requirements for a self-hosted n8n instance depend heavily on the anticipated workload. For a server intended to handle a significant number of active workflows and a high volume of executions, a configuration with at least 4 virtual CPUs (vCPUs), 8 to 16 GB of Random Access Memory (RAM), and 40 to 80 GB of Solid State Drive (SSD) storage would be a reasonable starting point, based on the recommendations in snippet.13 However, these figures are not absolute and can vary based on the specific nature and complexity of the automation tasks being performed. Workflows that involve intensive data processing or frequent interactions with external APIs may necessitate more robust resources.

It is crucial to carefully align the chosen server resources with the expected workload of the n8n instance. Over-provisioning, while ensuring ample capacity, can lead to unnecessary expenditures on resources that are not fully utilized. Conversely, under-provisioning can result in performance degradation, instability, and potential workflow failures. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the automation requirements is essential for cost-effective resource allocation.

4.2.3. Additional Costs: Monitoring, Backups, and Software Licenses

Beyond the fundamental cost of the server infrastructure, self-hosting n8n can entail several additional expenses that need to be factored into the total cost of ownership. One such essential cost is for monitoring the health and performance of the server. While basic monitoring might be available through the hosting provider, more comprehensive monitoring solutions, such as those offered by AWS CloudWatch 33, Google Cloud Monitoring 34, or Azure Monitor 36, often incur additional monthly charges based on the volume of data ingested, the retention period, and the complexity of the monitoring setup. Effective monitoring is crucial for identifying and addressing potential issues before they impact the automation workflows.

Another critical consideration is the implementation of a robust backup strategy. Regularly backing up the n8n instance, including its configuration, workflows, and execution history, is vital to prevent data loss in the event of server failures or other unforeseen circumstances. Utilizing backup services provided by cloud platforms like AWS Backup 37, Google Cloud Backup and DR 40, or Azure Backup 41 will add to the overall cost, typically based on the amount of data being backed up and the frequency of the backup schedule.

Furthermore, depending on the specific requirements and the scale of the self-hosted n8n deployment, there might be costs associated with software licenses. While the community edition of n8n is free for internal, non-commercial, or personal use 4, organizations requiring advanced features such as Single Sign-On (SSO), multiple environment management (development, staging, production), version control using Git, and external secret store integration, as mentioned in snippets 6, and 46, may need to consider purchasing an n8n Enterprise license. The cost of such a license can be substantial, potentially reaching thousands of euros per year, as indicated in snippets 45and.46

Finally, while many self-hosting users opt for free and open-source operating systems like Linux distributions, which do not incur licensing fees, there might be costs associated with the operating system if a commercial option like Windows Server is chosen. Similarly, while PostgreSQL, the recommended database for production n8n environments, is also open-source, using a commercially licensed database might introduce additional costs.

5. Integration Landscape: Cloud and Self-Hosted

5.1. Core Integrations Available in Both Versions

n8n prides itself on offering a vast and versatile library of integrations, currently exceeding 400 pre-built nodes that facilitate connections to a wide spectrum of applications and services.3 A significant advantage for users is that the vast majority of these integrations are designed to function seamlessly and identically in both the n8n cloud and self-hosted deployment models.1 This consistency ensures that users can leverage n8n's extensive connectivity regardless of their chosen deployment method.

Examples of commonly utilized integrations that are readily available in both n8n cloud and self-hosted include popular applications such as Google Sheets for spreadsheet automation, Slack and Telegram for communication and notifications, a variety of SQL and NoSQL databases like MySQL and PostgreSQL for data interaction, and numerous productivity and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools such as Notion and Airtable for streamlining business workflows.47 These integrations empower users to automate tasks across a multitude of essential business applications.

Furthermore, both n8n cloud and self-hosted versions provide the fundamental and highly versatile HTTP Request node and Webhook node.47 These core nodes are instrumental in extending n8n's integration capabilities far beyond its pre-built node library. The HTTP Request node allows users to connect to virtually any service that exposes a publicly accessible Application Programming Interface (API), enabling custom interactions and data exchange with a vast array of online platforms. The Webhook node provides a mechanism for n8n to receive real-time data and trigger workflows based on events occurring in other applications, facilitating event-driven automation scenarios.

5.2. Identifying Integrations Exclusive to n8n Cloud

A careful examination of the provided research material reveals that there is no explicit list of integrations that are entirely exclusive to the paid n8n cloud version. While snippet 51 does highlight several features that are absent in the community edition of n8n (such as collaboration tools, Single Sign-On (SSO), and multiple environments), it does not specifically mention any complete integrations being exclusive to the cloud offering. Similarly, snippet 52 points out that the configuration of credentials for certain services might differ between n8n cloud and self-hosted, suggesting that n8n cloud might offer a more streamlined initial setup in some cases due to n8n managing the OAuth application configuration.

Specifically, snippets 52 and 4 indicate that n8n cloud may provide a more convenient and user-friendly experience for setting up OAuth-based integrations with certain services. In the cloud environment, n8n often handles the complexities of creating and configuring the necessary OAuth applications behind the scenes, simplifying the process for users compared to self-hosting, where users typically need to manually create and configure these applications within the respective service provider's developer portal. This difference streamlines the initial setup and authentication process for some integrations in the cloud.

It is also worth noting that while the core set of integrations remains largely consistent, the enhanced collaboration features available in the paid tiers of n8n cloud, as mentioned in snippets 4, and 51, might indirectly lead to a smoother and more efficient experience when working with integrations that involve team access or the sharing of credentials among multiple users. These cloud-specific collaboration tools can simplify the management and utilization of integrations within a team environment.

However, based on the available information, there is no definitive evidence to suggest that any specific integration nodes are entirely exclusive to the n8n cloud platform. The primary differences appear to lie in the ease of initial setup for certain integrations, particularly those using OAuth, and the enhanced collaboration capabilities that might improve the overall experience of using integrations within a team setting in the cloud environment. Further investigation, potentially involving a direct comparison of the integration libraries in both deployment models, might be necessary to definitively identify any fully exclusive integrations.

6. Comparative Analysis: Features, Benefits, and Drawbacks

7. Conclusion and Recommendations: Guiding Your Decision Based on Your Specific Needs

In conclusion, the choice between n8n cloud and self-hosted deployment hinges on a fundamental trade-off between convenience and control. n8n cloud offers a streamlined, fully managed experience, abstracting away the complexities of infrastructure management and allowing users to focus solely on building and running their automation workflows. This ease of use and reduced operational overhead make it an attractive option for individuals and teams who prioritize simplicity and speed of deployment. However, this convenience comes with a subscription-based cost and a degree of limitation in terms of infrastructure control and customization.

Conversely, self-hosting n8n provides users with complete autonomy over their automation environment. This model offers granular control over server configurations, the ability to implement highly customized integrations, and the potential for cost savings in the long run, particularly for users with the technical expertise to manage their own infrastructure. However, self-hosting also entails a significant responsibility for maintenance, security, and scalability, demanding a higher level of technical proficiency and ongoing effort.

For users who prioritize ease of use, rapid deployment, and minimal operational overhead, and whose automation needs align with the limits of the paid plans, n8n cloud is a recommended solution. Its built-in scalability and managed infrastructure simplify the automation journey. Organizations with stringent data privacy requirements, a need for extensive infrastructure or code-level customization, or those comfortable managing their own servers might find self-hosting a more suitable option, granting them the necessary control and flexibility. Cost-sensitive users with moderate automation requirements and the technical skills to manage a server can potentially achieve a more economical solution through self-hosting the community edition on an appropriately sized VPS. Teams requiring robust collaboration features and advanced functionalities should consider the paid tiers of n8n cloud or the self-hosted Enterprise version, keeping in mind the associated licensing costs for the latter.

Ultimately, the optimal decision depends on a careful evaluation of the user's technical capabilities, budget constraints, data security policies, and anticipated automation workload. It is advisable for prospective users to explore the free trial of n8n cloud or set up a test instance of the self-hosted community edition to gain firsthand experience and make a more informed choice tailored to their specific needs and priorities.