Why do manually what can run automatically? Personal automation tools handle the recurring tasks in your digital life - from email sorting to file organization to app connections. We tested tools for individual use, not enterprise workflows.
| Tool | Starting Price | Ease of Use | Power | App Coverage | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zapier | Free/$19.99 | Easy | Good | Best | 9.3/10 |
| Make | Free/$9 | Medium | Excellent | Great | 9.1/10 |
| IFTTT | Free/$3.49 | Easiest | Basic | Good | 8.6/10 |
| Apple Shortcuts | Free | Easy | Good | Apple only | 8.8/10 |
| Keyboard Maestro | $36 | Complex | Excellent | Mac only | 9.0/10 |
| n8n | Free/$20 | Technical | Excellent | Great | 8.7/10 |
Zapier is the default choice for connecting apps. With 6,000+ integrations, it probably supports everything you use. The interface is simple enough for anyone. Start with the generous free tier.
Make (formerly Integromat) handles complex automations that Zapier can't. Visual scenario builder, branching logic, and data transformation. More powerful but requires more learning.
IFTTT (If This Then That) is the simplest automation tool. Perfect for basic triggers and actions, especially with smart home devices. The free tier is surprisingly generous.
Apple Shortcuts is built into iOS and macOS. Automate device actions, create workflows, and trigger with Siri. Free and well-integrated, but limited to Apple ecosystem.
Keyboard Maestro is the most powerful Mac automation tool. Control apps, create complex macros, automate repetitive tasks. One-time payment for unlimited power.
n8n is an open-source automation platform you can self-host. Full control over your data and workflows. Technical to set up but powerful and free if you host yourself.
We evaluated tools for personal use: ease of setup, reliability, and practical time savings.
Zapier is easier and has more integrations. Make is more powerful and often cheaper. Start with Zapier, move to Make when you need complexity.
Apple Shortcuts if on Mac/iOS. IFTTT for cross-platform simple automation. Zapier and Make have useful free tiers too.
Start with email sorting, file organization, or calendar notifications. Then move to app connections like saving email attachments to cloud storage.
