zapier vs pipedream

Zapier vs Pipedream

Table of Contents

Zapier vs Pipedream: Choose The Best Tool For Your Business

Key Takeaways

  • Both are big names in automation. Zapier is easy to use, while Pipedream offers more customization with code.
  • Zapier connects 7,000+ apps with simplicity. Pipedream focuses on code-driven automation for control.
  • Zapier is user-friendly and easy to use. Pipedream allows advanced customization but has fewer built-in connections.
  • Zapier is beginner-friendly. Anyone can use it, but Pipedream requires coding knowledge.
  • Zapier has a vast library of applications. Pipedream lets you use code for custom connections and event-driven automation.

Automating your work processes can make all the difference. Both Zapier and Pipedream are big names in the automation game. With these tools, users can reduce jobs, boost output, and simplify complicated processes. But which tool will work best for you? In this article, we will compare Zapier vs Pipedream in depth so you can make an educated choice for your automation journey.

Zapier: The Trailblazer

Zapier has been around since 2011, making it a veteran in automation. With over 7,000+ app integrations, everyone and every business should choose it. Think of it as the reliable Swiss Army knife of automation.

Pipedream: The New Kid on the Block

Pipedream, on the other hand, is a new company. It’s the new kid on the block with a unique robotics take. It came out in 2019. The code in Pipedream has a lot of power, making it an excellent choice for writers and tech-savvy users.

Zapier Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

Pipedream Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

Zapier vs Pipedream: Ease of Use

pipedream vs zapier Ease-of-Use

Zapier: Your Grandma Can Use It

You don’t need to be an expert to create “Zaps” (automation workflows), It is known for its user-friendly interface. It’s as easy as connecting the dots. If you can follow a recipe, you can create a Zap.

Pipedream: A Coder’s Playground

Pipedream is more developer-centric. While it offers a visual workflow builder, it allows you to write custom code to create advanced automation. If you’re a developer, you’ll feel right at home here. Learning takes longer for people who could be better with technology.

Zapier vs Pipedream: Integration Game

Zapier: A Vast Ecosystem

The best feature of Zapier is its vast app library. It meets many needs because it can connect to thousands of apps. Zapier can help you with marketing, sales, or project management.

Pipedream: Extensible with Code

Pipedream has fewer built-in integrations than Zapier, but it makes up for it by letting you use code to make your connections. There are many options if you are ready to get your hands dirty.

Zapier vs Pipedream: Integration Process

Zapier vs Pipedream Integration Process

How to Use Zapier

  1. Go to the Zapier website.
  2. Click on “Sign Up” and create your account. You can start with a free plan or choose a paid plan for more advanced features.
  3. Log in to your Zapier account.
  4. Click on “Make a Zap” to begin the automation process.
  5. Select the app that will trigger the automation. For example, you can choose “Gmail” as the trigger app.
  6. Configure the specific trigger event, like “New Email Received.”
  7. Connect your Gmail account with Zapier by following the prompts.
  8. Test the connection to ensure it’s working correctly.
  9. Choose the action app where you want the data to be sent. For instance, you can select “Google Sheets” to save email data.
  10. Configure the action event, like “Create Row.”
  11. Map the data from your trigger app to the action app. For example, map the sender’s email address to a column in Google Sheets.
  12. Test the action to ensure it’s working as expected.
  13. Give your automation a name.
  14. Turn on the Zap, which will start automatically when the trigger event occurs.
  15. Monitor your Zaps in the Zapier dashboard.
  16. Edit or add new actions to your Zaps as your needs evolve.

How to Use Pipedream

  1. Visit the Pipedream website.
  2. Sign up for an account. Pipedream offers a generous free plan to get you started.
  3. After logging in, click “Create a Workflow” to start building your automation.
  4. Select the trigger event for your workflow. Pipedream supports trigger types like HTTP requests, timer schedules, and third-party app events.
  5. Configure the trigger settings. For example, set the endpoint URL and authentication if you’re using an HTTP request trigger.
  6. Add one or more steps to your workflow. These can be code steps or third-party app integrations.
  7. Write custom code if needed or choose from pre-built actions for popular apps.
  8. Test your workflow to ensure it’s working correctly.
  9. Deploy the workflow to make it live and start automating tasks.
  10. Keep an eye on your workflows from the Pipedream dashboard.
  11. Edit, add, or delete steps as your automation needs to change.

Combining Zapier vs Pipedream

You can use both Zapier and Pipedream together for comprehensive automation. Here’s how:

  1. Set up a Zap in Zapier to handle simple, everyday tasks and integrations.
  2. Use Pipedream to handle complex, event-driven automation that requires custom coding.
  3. Connect the two by making Zapier an action app in Pipedream or triggering Pipedream workflows from Zapier.

Remember that the choice between Zapier and Pipedream depends on your specific needs and technical skills. Zapier is user-friendly and suitable for straightforward automation, while Pipedream offers more control and flexibility, especially for developers.

Pipedream vs Zapier: Automation Logic

Zapier: Simple and Effective

Zapier’s logic is based on a trigger-action model. When a trigger event occurs, it initiates an action. This simplicity is perfect for straightforward automation needs.

Pipedream: Event-Driven Automation

Pipedream excels in event-driven automation. It can respond to various events, making it ideal for complex scenarios. If you need more control and flexibility, Pipedream is your ally.

Zapier vs Pipedream: Pricing

Zapier: Free, But Limited

Zapier’s free plan has basic features, but to unlock the full potential, you’ll need to subscribe to a paid plan, starting at $19.99 per month.

Pipedream: Generous Free Tier

Pipedream is more generous with its free plan, offering 750 monthly credits. Paid plans start at $19 monthly, making it an economical choice.

Zapier Pricing