Does n8n have a Mac app?
While a dedicated n8n Mac app did exist in the past, it is no longer the primary or recommended method for using the platform on macOS. The n8n team now focuses on more scalable and robust solutions: the browser-based n8n Cloud and self-hosting via Docker. Both methods provide a superior, up-to-date experience and allow you to run powerful automations right from your Mac, effectively serving as modern replacements for a traditional desktop application.
The Story of the Original n8n Desktop App
Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane. For early adopters and those just dipping their toes into automation, the original n8n desktop app for Mac and Windows was a godsend. It was a simple, downloadable package that installed a local n8n instance on your machine without you ever needing to open a terminal. You could build, test, and run workflows right there. It was fantastic for getting a feel for n8n’s power.
So, what happened? As n8n grew into the powerhouse it is today, the focus naturally shifted. Maintaining separate desktop applications for different operating systems is a huge undertaking. The core team pivoted toward perfecting two main deployment models that offer more flexibility, scalability, and control:
- n8n Cloud: For ultimate convenience and zero maintenance.
- Self-Hosting: For ultimate control, privacy, and customization.
This strategic shift ensures that whether you’re a hobbyist or an enterprise team, you’re getting the most secure, feature-rich version of n8n possible. Let’s be honest, it was the right call. It allows for faster feature development for everyone.
How to Run n8n on Your Mac in 2024
Just because the standalone n8n mac app is no longer the star of the show doesn’t mean you can’t work on your automations from your MacBook. In fact, the modern methods are far better. You essentially have two fantastic options.
The Easiest Route: n8n Cloud
The simplest way to use n8n on any machine, including a Mac, is through n8n Cloud. There’s nothing to install. You just sign up, log in through your web browser (like Safari or Chrome), and start building.
Think of it like the difference between the old Microsoft Word software you had to install from a CD and the Google Docs you use in your browser today. Both get the job done, but the cloud version is always up-to-date and accessible from anywhere. It’s the perfect choice if you want to focus purely on building workflows without thinking about servers or setup.
The Power User’s Desktop Solution: Self-Hosting with Docker
Now, here’s where it gets interesting for those of us who like to tinker. If you want the true “it’s running on my machine” experience, self-hosting n8n with Docker is the way to go. This is my personal setup for all local development, and it’s the most powerful and flexible option for a desktop environment.
What does this mean? In simple terms, you use a free tool called Docker Desktop to run a lightweight, self-contained version of n8n on your Mac. It gives you the best of both worlds: your data stays on your machine, you have full control, and you can access other local services (like a database running on your computer) that a cloud service couldn’t reach.
Getting Started with Docker on Mac:
- Install Docker Desktop for Mac: Grab it from the official Docker website. It’s a straightforward installation.
- Create a
docker-compose.ymlfile: This simple text file tells Docker exactly how to run n8n. Create a folder for your n8n setup and save this file inside it. - Run one command: Open your Terminal, navigate to that folder, and type
docker-compose up -d.
That’s it! After a minute, you can open your web browser to http://localhost:5678 and you’ll have your very own, fully functional n8n instance running right there on your Mac. All your workflows and credentials will be saved locally in a .n8n folder, just like with the old desktop app.
Comparing Your macOS Options
Still not sure which path is right for you? Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide.
| Feature | n8n Cloud | Self-Hosting with Docker on Mac |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Effort | None. Just sign up and log in. | Low. Install Docker and run one command. |
| Maintenance | Handled entirely by the n8n team. | You are responsible for updates. |
| Cost | Free and paid tiers available. | Free (Community Edition), but requires your own machine. |
| Data Location | On n8n’s secure servers. | On your local Mac. |
| Accessibility | From any device with an internet connection. | Primarily from your Mac. |
| Best For… | Users who want convenience and no-hassle setup. | Developers, power users, and those needing to connect to local services. |
A Final Word of Advice
So, does n8n have a Mac app? The answer is a nuanced yes and no. The dedicated app of yesterday has evolved into the far superior cloud and self-hosted solutions of today. As an automation professional, I can’t recommend the Docker approach enough for anyone doing serious development on a Mac. It provides a level of control and integration with your local environment that is simply unmatched.
If you happen to be one of the few who still have the old desktop app installed, I strongly urge you to migrate. Export your workflows and spin up a new instance using Docker. You’ll gain access to years of security updates, new features, and a much more stable platform for your automation journey. Don’t get left behind—embrace the modern way of running n8n on macOS!
