Node-RED
Low-code, event-driven flow editor on Node.js for wiring devices, APIs and online services.
A browser flow editor on Node.js with a library of community nodes.
Node-RED is a low-code programming tool for event-driven applications that runs on Node.js. It suits developers, makers and IT teams who want to connect hardware, APIs and services in a visual editor.
What it is
You install it with one npm command and open a flow editor in your browser. The project links a library of custom nodes, shared flows and node collections that you can add to your own flows.
Who it's for
It suits people comfortable with Node.js who want to run automations on a PC, server or small device. It does not suit anyone who wants a hosted service with managed app connections and billing.
Key features
Browser flow editor
Build event-driven flows in a visual editor.
Node library
Add community nodes from the project's library.
Shared flows
Import flows and collections others published.
npm install
Install globally with one npm command.
Runs on Node.js
Works on a PC, server or small device.
Run from source
Clone the repo, build and start it locally.
Up and running in 3 steps
Our honest verdict
What's great
- Installs with sudo npm install -g node-red, then node-red starts the editor.
- The project hosts a library of nodes, flows and collections you can reuse.
- Apache-2.0 licence has no per-seat or per-run fee.
- Maintained by an OpenJS Foundation project team.
Where it falls short
- You need Node.js and must keep it and your nodes updated.
- The README shows no hosted plan, so uptime, backups and security are yours.
- Community nodes vary in quality and you review them yourself.
Pricing & license
Node-RED is free under Apache-2.0. The README shows no paid hosted plan, so the only cost is running it yourself.
Open remote AI-training roles
880 open remote AI-training roles, updated November 15, 2026; most pay $20–$175 an hour. Zekai lists them free; the application goes to the employer’s platform.
Alternatives
These reviewed AI tools do the same job instantly — from our scored directory.
Use it, or have us set it up
FAQ
Is Node-RED free?
Yes. The code is Apache-2.0; you pay only for wherever you run it.
Does it need a server?
It runs wherever Node.js runs, including a PC, a server or a small device.
Where do extra nodes come from?
From the project's node library, which also lists shared flows and collections.
