Code-friendly automation running Node.js workflows excellent when you need custom logic, API integrations, or automations that Zapier can't handle.
Pipedream builds serverless workflows using prebuilt triggers plus custom code, letting developers automate without managing infrastructure.
You're technical, need custom logic that no-code tools can't handle, and want the speed of managed infrastructure without learning complex platforms.
€
348
/ year
€
45
/ month
Build custom API integrations with Node.js
Process webhooks with transformation logic
Deploy workflows without managing servers
Technical marketers building custom integrations, growth teams with engineering support, and developers who want automation without managing servers.
Looking for other options? These are tools I've personally used with clients or tested extensively. Some might better suit your budget, tech stack, or team size. Consider this a shortlist if you need alternatives.
Visual automation platform with advanced logic and error handling more powerful than Zapier when you need control over complex, branching workflows.
Open-source automation with self-hosting ideal when you need complete control, want to own infrastructure, or have technical teams building workflows.
No-code automation connecting 5,000+ apps to move data and trigger actions excellent for quick wins when you need integrations that just work.
Tools like Zapier, n8n and Make.com are incredibly powerful, but they can feel overwhelming when you’re just getting started. Since you can connect almost anything, it’s hard to know where to begin.
No-code automation connecting 5,000+ apps to move data and trigger actions excellent for quick wins when you need integrations that just work.
Open-source automation with self-hosting ideal when you need complete control, want to own infrastructure, or have technical teams building workflows.
Visual automation platform with advanced logic and error handling more powerful than Zapier when you need control over complex, branching workflows.
Pipedream bridges no-code and code you can use prebuilt components or write custom Node.js logic. Free tier is generous (workflows, invocations) but limits exist. Compared to Zapier/Make, Pipedream offers more flexibility for technical users but steeper learning curve. Compared to n8n, Pipedream is fully managed (no server maintenance) but less control over infrastructure. If you're technical and need custom logic, Pipedream is excellent. If you're non-technical, stick with Zapier. If you need complete control, use n8n. Pipedream works best when you want the power of code without DevOps overhead. Requires JavaScript knowledge.
My personal notes on how to use this tool.
If you’re considering using Pipedream to automate your workflows, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set it up and get started with building your first workflow.
To get started, go to the Pipedream website and sign up for an account. You can quickly sign up using your Google or GitHub account.
After logging in, you’ll be directed to your Pipedream dashboard. To create a new workflow, click on the "New" button. You’ll be prompted to choose a trigger for your workflow. This could be an event like an HTTP request or a scheduled time trigger.
Once you’ve set up your trigger, you can connect your services to the workflow. Pipedream supports over 1,000 integrations, including Google Sheets, Slack, Stripe, and many others. To add an integration, simply search for the service you want to connect, and Pipedream will guide you through the process.
If you need more customisation, Pipedream allows you to write your own code within the workflow. You can use languages like Node.js, Python, Go, or Bash to write custom scripts that manipulate data, perform calculations, or make API calls. This is where Pipedream really shines, as it lets you build workflows that are not possible on no-code platforms.
Before publishing your workflow, use Pipedream’s testing feature to ensure everything works as expected. You can preview the workflow to see how it behaves in a live environment.
Once you’ve tested your workflow and made any necessary adjustments, you can deploy it. Pipedream will run your workflow according to the trigger you set, automating the task in real-time.
Pipedream provides logs and debugging tools to help you track the performance of your workflows. You can view detailed logs to troubleshoot any issues and make adjustments as necessary.
Pipedream is a powerful automation tool for developers who need deep customisation and control over their workflows. If you have a technical team, it’s an excellent choice for building complex integrations and automating advanced processes. However, if you’re a non-technical marketer or need simple workflows, tools like Zapier or Integromat may be more suitable. By following this guide, you can start building workflows on Pipedream and take full advantage of its capabilities for your business.
If you’re considering using Pipedream to automate your workflows, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set it up and get started with building your first workflow.
To get started, go to the Pipedream website and sign up for an account. You can quickly sign up using your Google or GitHub account.
After logging in, you’ll be directed to your Pipedream dashboard. To create a new workflow, click on the "New" button. You’ll be prompted to choose a trigger for your workflow. This could be an event like an HTTP request or a scheduled time trigger.
Once you’ve set up your trigger, you can connect your services to the workflow. Pipedream supports over 1,000 integrations, including Google Sheets, Slack, Stripe, and many others. To add an integration, simply search for the service you want to connect, and Pipedream will guide you through the process.
If you need more customisation, Pipedream allows you to write your own code within the workflow. You can use languages like Node.js, Python, Go, or Bash to write custom scripts that manipulate data, perform calculations, or make API calls. This is where Pipedream really shines, as it lets you build workflows that are not possible on no-code platforms.
Before publishing your workflow, use Pipedream’s testing feature to ensure everything works as expected. You can preview the workflow to see how it behaves in a live environment.
Once you’ve tested your workflow and made any necessary adjustments, you can deploy it. Pipedream will run your workflow according to the trigger you set, automating the task in real-time.
Pipedream provides logs and debugging tools to help you track the performance of your workflows. You can view detailed logs to troubleshoot any issues and make adjustments as necessary.
Pipedream is a powerful automation tool for developers who need deep customisation and control over their workflows. If you have a technical team, it’s an excellent choice for building complex integrations and automating advanced processes. However, if you’re a non-technical marketer or need simple workflows, tools like Zapier or Integromat may be more suitable. By following this guide, you can start building workflows on Pipedream and take full advantage of its capabilities for your business.
This tool is part of tactical playbooks that walk you through every stage of this engine. Read the full guides to learn how to implement the framework, set up your infrastructure, and execute the tactics that drive results.
The wrong tools waste money and create friction. The right tools compound productivity. Avoid vendor promises and feature bloat. Choose what actually fits your workflow, integrates cleanly, and grows with you.
See playbook
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