A plain comparison of n8n Cloud, DIY self-hosting and managed n8n hosting, so you can pick the option that fits your workload and your team.
Sooner or later every n8n user hits the same question: do I keep paying for n8n Cloud, or do I run n8n on my own server? Both are valid. The right answer depends on how many workflows you run, how sensitive your data is, and how much server work you are willing to own.
This guide compares the three realistic options: n8n Cloud, DIY self-hosting on a VPS, and managed n8n hosting, where a provider runs the server for you.
| n8n Cloud | DIY self-hosted | Managed n8n hosting | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who runs the server | n8n | You | Your hosting provider |
| Pricing model | Plans tied to execution volume | Server cost only | Flat monthly plan |
| Execution limits | Per plan | None (limited by your hardware) | None on PCRDP plans |
| Data location | n8n's infrastructure | Wherever your server is | Dedicated server you control |
| Backups and monitoring | Handled by n8n | You build and test them | Included |
| Setup effort | Minutes | Hours to days | Minutes |
| Custom domain, SSL, env vars | Limited by plan | Full control | Included |
Cloud is the fastest way to start. There is nothing to install, updates are handled for you, and it is a good fit while you are still learning n8n or running a handful of light workflows. It becomes less attractive as execution counts grow, because cost follows volume. Check n8n's own pricing page for current plan limits before you commit.
Self-hosting removes execution-based limits and keeps your data on a server you choose, which matters for teams with privacy, compliance or data-residency needs. It also lets you tune the setup: queue mode, extra workers, custom nodes and your own database. The trade-off is that you are now responsible for updates, backups, monitoring, SSL renewal and security. Our step-by-step self-hosting guide shows what that involves.
One licensing note: n8n is distributed under a source-available licence that allows self-hosting for your own internal business use. If you plan to resell n8n as a service to customers, read the licence terms first.
Many teams end up in the gap between the two. They have outgrown Cloud limits but do not want to maintain a server. Managed n8n hosting fills that gap: you get a dedicated n8n instance with unlimited executions, daily backups, uptime monitoring and a real person for infrastructure support, at a flat monthly price. n8n's own version updates stay in your hands, so nothing changes under your workflows without you deciding.
Not sure which option fits? Compare the three managed plans, or talk to us and we will tell you honestly whether Cloud or self-hosting is the better fit for your workload.
See Managed n8n Hosting Plans
