2 Best Automation Tools in 2026
Compare Automation Tools by their features, costs, and limitations. Read the reviews to decide which fits your work.
Best Automation Tools
Make
Best for visual workflow automation with complex, multi-step logic.
Watch for: Steep learning curve for new users.
Pricing: Make offers a free plan with 1,000 credits/month. Paid plans start at $12/month for 10,000 credits and are best for users with complex, high-volume workflows.
More about Make
Make is a powerful automation platform for building complex, multi-step workflows. Its visual editor is perfect for technical users who need granular control and find simpler tools too limiting. Be prepared for a steep learning curve and a credit system that requires careful management.
Check before choosing
- Credit-based pricing is complex and can be hard to predict.
- Free plan's 15-minute interval is very restrictive.
Relay
Best for small businesses that use the Profit First method or need multiple accounts to manage cash flow.
Watch for: No physical branches for in-person service.
Pricing: Relay offers a free 'Starter' plan with no monthly fees. Paid 'Grow' and 'Scale' plans offer higher savings APY and advanced features like automated bill payments.
More about Relay
Relay is a digital banking platform for small businesses. It lets you open up to 20 checking accounts for free. This helps you organize your money for taxes, payroll, and profit. While great for cash management, it lacks physical branches and charges fees for international card use.
Check before choosing
- Charges a 1-2% fee on international card transactions.
- Does not support cash deposits directly.
How to choose
Start with the task you need to finish. Compare the relevant features, plan limits, and setup effort in each review.
Listed alphabetically. Use the reviews to find your best fit. These are research-based reviews, not hands-on test scores.
Automation Tools FAQs
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Best all-in-one finance platform for VC-backed startups, but its strict eligibility excludes many businesses.
Watch for: Strict eligibility requires high cash balances (often $50,000+).
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Airtable
A useful next step when connected records matter more than a simple task list.
Watch for: Commenters are billable on Team; self-serve Business bills Editor permissions and above.