5 reasons to "move" to Latenode for building automation workflows

#1. Optimal cost-saving solution

Many automation platforms charge fees based on the number of actions performed by a module within a scenario, such as Make.com or Zapier. In contrast, Latenode employs a credit-based system and calculates costs based on execution time. Specifically, 1 credit on Latenode equals $0.0019 and corresponds to 30 seconds of action execution.

Within those 30 seconds, multiple actions can be performed simultaneously, resulting in significantly lower overall costs compared to other platforms (reportedly 7.67 times cheaper than Make.com, as per its developers).

Oleg Zankov, founder of Latenode, analyzed the cost-effectiveness of his platform on Medium. He tested workflows with 2,000 unique actions across four automation platforms—Zapier, Make.com, Pipedream, and Latenode. The results were as follows:

• Zapier: $123.84
• Make.com: $10.59
• Pipedream: $29.00
• Latenode: $1.38

Although cost isn't the only deciding factor, these statistics highlight that Latenode is well-suited for complex scenarios requiring numerous actions.

#2. Flexible workflow design

Despite being a newcomer, Latenode has learned from its competitors by addressing user pain points. For instance, Make.com allows only one trigger per scenario, while Latenode enables unlimited triggers, inspired by n8n.

Additionally, merging branches—a common challenge on other platforms—is simplified on Latenode. Whereas Zapier doesn't officially support branch merging and Make.com requires multiple manual steps, Latenode makes it straightforward.

Users can also turn workflows into reusable sub-scenarios, providing greater flexibility when managing and building complex automation scenarios.

#3. Custom code and NPM package integration

Latenode markets itself as a "low-code" platform tailored for professionals. Its support for embedding custom code across entire workflows—not limited to individual modules—sets it apart from competitors like Make.com and Zapier.

This feature allows users to:

• Perform complex data manipulations.
• Seamlessly connect with custom APIs.
• Execute mathematical operations using JavaScript.

Latenode also provides access to over one million pre-integrated NPM packages, expanding its capability to handle intricate automation tasks without significant limitations.

#4. API-free connectivity

Most automation platforms allow HTTP requests and external API calls but impose limits on API usage. The more you call APIs, the higher your costs on platforms like Make.com or Zapier.

Latenode stands out with its Headless Browser feature, enabling users to automate workflows without relying on APIs. This capability allows data extraction from any website, even those lacking official APIs. For example, you can gather product details, pricing, reviews, and other data from sites like Tiki or Lazada effortlessly.

This feature makes Latenode an excellent choice for working with older systems, API-restricted websites, or when API documentation is unavailable.

#5. AI assistant for enhanced efficiency

Latenode integrates AI as a constant assistant for users, capable of:

• Writing code based on user descriptions or requirements.
• Detecting and fixing errors in code or workflow logic.
• Explaining code snippets.
• Suggesting solutions for complex problems.

While this intelligent assistant acts as a "partner" for developers, the current lack of Vietnamese language support is a limitation. If Latenode adds support for additional languages, it could become an indispensable tool for local developers.