Mastra vs n8n
Both are business tools covering business, productivity, agent, which is why they come up as alternatives to each other. They differ on 4 attributes worth checking before you commit.
Mastra
TypeScript framework for building production-ready AI agents
Mastra is an open-source TypeScript framework for building AI agents and workflows with support for memory, tool use, RAG pipelines, and multi-agent orchestration. It is LLM-provider-agnostic and integrates with Vercel's AI SDK. Designed for TypeScript developers who want a structured, batteries-included framework for production AI applications.
Choose Mastra if you need to self-host or audit the source, or if you need to call it from your own code, or if you need it on Web.
n8n
Extendable workflow automation with AI nodes and self-hosting
n8n is a source-available workflow automation platform with 400+ integrations, a visual node editor, and built-in AI agent and LangChain nodes. It can be self-hosted for full data control or used via cloud, and supports JavaScript code nodes for custom logic. Popular with developers and operations teams who want powerful automation without vendor lock-in.
Choose n8n if you need it on Self-Hosted, or if your work leans toward automation.
Where they differ
| Attribute | Mastra | n8n |
|---|---|---|
| Public API | Yes | Not stated |
| Open source | Yes | Not stated |
| Platforms | Web | Self-Hosted |
| Distinct strengths | llm, rag | automation |
What they have in common
Mastra vs n8n: common questions
Is Mastra or n8n better?
Neither is better across the board — they differ on public api, open source, platforms, distinct strengths. Choose Mastra if you need to self-host or audit the source, or if you need to call it from your own code, or if you need it on Web. Choose n8n if you need it on Self-Hosted, or if your work leans toward automation.
Is Mastra free?
Mastra is listed as Paid. There's no free tier listed, though many paid tools offer a trial.
Does n8n have an API?
Public API for n8n: not stated. The tool hasn't stated one either way, so check its own documentation before planning an integration.