The Short Answer
For small business owners prioritizing the lowest recurring cost, IFTTT is the most economical option at $2.99/month billed annually. If your workflow requires a specific volume of 10,000 credits/month, Make offers the Core plan for $9/month billed annually. Zapier is the highest-priced option at $19.99/month billed annually or $29.99 billed monthly, so it is best reserved for users who specifically need its Professional plan features.
For small business owners and professionals, selecting the right automation platform is critical for maintaining efficiency without overextending resources. Tools like IFTTT, Make, and Zapier serve as the backbone of modern digital workflows, connecting disparate applications to streamline daily operations.
Understanding the distinct capabilities of these three leading platforms helps you make an informed decision that aligns with your specific operational needs. By evaluating their approach to integrating AI and automating tasks, you can identify the solution that best supports your growth strategy and professional objectives.
Quick Comparison
| Tool | Price | Free Plan | Verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| IFTTT | $2.99/month billed annually ($35.88/year, Pro plan) | 2 Applets (Free plan) | 2026-09-24 |
| Make | $9/month billed annually (Core plan, 10,000 credits/month) | 1,000 credits/month | 2026-09-24 |
| Zapier | $19.99/month billed annually or $29.99 billed monthly (Professional plan) | 100 tasks/month (two-step Zaps only) | 2026-09-24 |
How We Compare
The prices and plan details in the table above are what we recorded for each tool, last checked on . Each section below links to the official site. Prices change often, so confirm the current price there before you decide.
IFTTT
Verified 2026-09-24Overview
IFTTT is an AI automation tool that allows users to create Applets to connect various services. It offers a Pro plan designed for advanced automation needs with a low-cost subscription model.
- AI Automation functionality
- Applet creation for task automation
- Simple monthly pricing structure
Small business owners and professionals looking for an affordable AI automation solution with a straightforward pricing structure.
- Affordable annual billing rate of $35.88/year
- Low monthly cost of $2.99/month for the Pro plan
- Free plan is limited to 2 Applets
Make
Verified 2026-09-24Overview
Make is an AI Automation tool designed for small business owners and professionals. It offers a core plan that includes monthly credit allotments for automated tasks.
- AI Automation capabilities
- 10,000 credits/month included in the Core plan
- Free plan availability with monthly credits
Small business owners and professionals looking for a cost-effective AI Automation solution with a generous free tier.
- Affordable annual pricing at $9/month
- Includes a free tier with 1,000 credits/month
- Monthly credit limit of 10,000 on the paid Core plan
Zapier
Verified 2026-09-24Overview
Zapier is an AI automation tool that connects different applications to streamline workflows. It offers a Professional plan starting at $19.99/month when billed annually or $29.99 when billed monthly.
- Automates workflows using Zaps to connect various apps
- Provides a free tier limited to 100 tasks per month
- Restricts free plan usage to two-step Zaps only
This tool is best for small business owners and professionals who need to automate multi-app workflows and can benefit from a free tier for basic two-step tasks.
- Offers an affordable annual billing option at $19.99/month
- Includes a free plan for basic automation needs
- The free plan is restricted to 100 tasks per month and only supports two-step Zaps
How to Choose the Right Tool
Understanding billing cycles
You need to verify whether the free tier converts to a monthly or annual payment to avoid unexpected costs. Check the specific terms to see if prices change when you switch billing methods.
Credit and task limits
The volume of automated actions you can perform is often capped in lower-cost plans. Confirm how these operational units are calculated to ensure your workflow fits within the allowed scope.
Integration availability
Different platforms support varying numbers of third-party applications for your automation needs. Review the list of supported services to guarantee your essential tools are included before committing.
Plan feature differences
Higher tiers may unlock advanced capabilities that are missing from the basic options. Determine if the extra features justify the increased expenditure for your specific business requirements.
Which Tool Is Best
IFTTT is well-suited for users seeking a simple automation tool starting at $2.99/month billed annually. Make fits professionals who need a Core plan for $9/month billed annually and require 10,000 credits/month. Zapier is appropriate for those choosing the Professional plan at $19.99/month billed annually or $29.99 billed monthly.
FAQ
What is the starting monthly cost for IFTTT if billed annually?
The Pro plan for IFTTT is $2.99/month when billed annually.
How much does the Make Core plan cost per month on an annual billing basis?
The Make Core plan is $9/month when billed annually.
What are the monthly pricing options for the Zapier Professional plan?
The Zapier Professional plan costs $19.99/month when billed annually or $29.99 when billed monthly.
How much does the IFTTT Pro plan cost per year if paid annually?
The IFTTT Pro plan costs $35.88/year when billed annually.
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Pricing shown was accurate at the time of publishing and may change — verify on the official site.