Best MuleSoft Alternatives for Business Process Integration in 2026: Top Picks Compared

Quick Comparison Table

What is MuleSoft?

MuleSoft is a platform that allows organizations to automate processes, manage APIs, integrate data, and connect with third-party systems. The MuleSoft Anypoint Platform is its standout product for on-premise and cloud-based connections, providing features like Connectors, DataGraph, Flex Gateway, DataWeave, and Exchange. It also supports API governance, monitoring, and management.

The main advantage of MuleSoft is its compatibility with multiple platform connectors via a no-code or low-code setup, plus strong API management and security capabilities.

Key MuleSoft Features

MuleSoft offers several products beyond Anypoint Platform:

• MuleSoft Composer: Connects apps and data using templates, custom expressions, pre-built connections, and invocable actions
• MuleSoft RPA: Uses robotic process automation to streamline internal and external processes
• MuleSoft IDP: Uses intelligent document processing to extract and import information from documents automatically
• Dataloader.io: Imports, deletes, arranges, and loads data from multiple sources
• MuleSoft AI: Uses machine learning and artificial intelligence to improve automated task accuracy
• API Manager: Prevents API sprawl by establishing a coherent system for managing APIs

Why Consider MuleSoft Alternatives?

While large corporations can afford MuleSoft, small and mid-sized businesses often struggle with the subscription costs. The platform has a steep learning curve requiring experts familiar with it to set things up. If you need only an integration solution, you end up paying for extra MuleSoft features your business doesn’t need.

Common reasons teams seek alternatives include:

• High total cost of ownership: Licensing, implementation, and ongoing maintenance costs add up quickly
• Complex deployment cycles: Setup can take months for enterprise scenarios
• Developer-heavy requirements: Requires trained technical staff fluent in proprietary tools
• Overkill for specific use cases: Many organizations need targeted integration solutions rather than a full iPaaS suite

Exalate

Exalate is a bidirectional integration tool designed for teams that need to connect and sync data across internal and external systems with full control over what gets shared and how.

What Makes Exalate Different

Unlike template-based tools, Exalate uses a Groovy-based scripting engine that handles any custom workflow, no matter how complex. This makes it particularly strong for cross-company integration scenarios where precision and control matter most.

Exalate supports integrations between Jira, Salesforce, ServiceNow, Zendesk, Azure DevOps (Cloud and Server), GitHub, Freshdesk, Freshservice, Asana, and many other platforms through both native connectors and custom connector development for enterprise customers.

Key Features

Unified Console: Manage all your integrations from a single interface. See all your connections and sync rules, monitor active queues, and view errors for both sides of your connection simultaneously through a side-by-side view.

Aida AI Assistant: Aida helps you implement integrations based on your platform and the context of existing scripted rules. It explains errors in easy-to-understand language and gives context-aware suggestions for error resolution, cutting troubleshooting time significantly.

Test Run: Safely test your sync scripts before deployment without creating actual entities on the destination side. This reduces the risk of errors affecting live data and enables safer configuration management.

Script Versioning and Rollback: Every configuration change creates a new version. You can work with draft versions without affecting production, trace changes through version history, and roll back to previous versions if needed.

Activity Dashboard: Monitor outgoing and incoming synchronization messages in progress. Filter by connection name or entity ID and view processing status for complete visibility into sync operations.

Real-time Sync: Always up-to-date view with full issue history, no delays, no data gaps.

Bulk Operations: Link existing items and sync new items in bulk for efficient data management.

Custom Triggers: Use query-based triggers to control exactly which items sync and when.

Security

Exalate provides enterprise-grade security, including ISO certification, role-based access control, and encryption of data both in transit and at rest. The platform uses flexible authentication models (API keys, OAuth, PAT) for managing integrations without exposing ticketing system credentials. Visit the Exalate Trust Center for complete security documentation.

Pricing

Exalate uses outcome-based pricing where you pay based on active items in sync, not arbitrary user counts or rigid connection tiers. You can choose a different plan for every integration you create.

Use the Exalate pricing calculator to estimate your costs based on actual usage.

Best For

• Enterprise teams needing bidirectional sync between Jira, Salesforce, ServiceNow, and other major platforms
• MSPs and solution providers managing integrations across multiple client environments
• Organizations requiring granular control over exactly what data flows in each direction
• Teams that need complex data transformations or conditional sync logic

Not For

• Teams seeking simple one-way data pushes with no customization
• Organizations without any technical resources for initial configuration
• Use cases requiring only basic Zapier-style automations without bidirectional sync

Pros

• Excellent support and documentation
• Aida AI assistant speeds up implementation and troubleshooting
• Seamless real-time synchronization with full history
• Each side maintains autonomous control over its data flow
• Unified console eliminates context switching between systems

Cons

• Requires scripting knowledge for complex integrations
• Initial setup time for sophisticated configurations

Boomi

Boomi provides an integration platform as a service (iPaaS) for connecting business processes with applications, systems, and cloud services through a centralized hub.

Key Features

• ETL (Extract, Transform, Load): Data transformation and movement capabilities
• API Management: Build, deploy, and manage APIs across environments
• B2B/EDI Management: Streamline partner integrations and supply chain workflows
• Master Data Hub: 360-view of your data across systems
• Event Streams: Scalable, high-performance event processing
• Pay-as-you-go option: Starting at $99/month with $0.05 per message

Pricing

Boomi offers custom pricing across tiers: Professional, Pro Plus, Enterprise, and Enterprise Plus. The pay-as-you-go model starts at $99/month. Enterprise deployments typically range from $15,000-$20,000+ annually, depending on volume and features. Contact their sales team for quotes.

Best For

Large enterprises need hybrid cloud and on-premise integrations with strong master data management.

Not For

Small businesses with basic integration needs or teams without technical staff to manage the platform.

Pros

• Supports multiple integrations and hybrid deployments
• Works well for templated integrations
• Handles data integration in real-time and batches
• Strong customer support

Cons

• Not completely no-code despite marketing claims
• Performance issues with multiple simultaneous connections
• Complex user interface with steep learning curve
• Pricing becomes expensive at scale

Workato

Workato uses recipes (pre-made instruction sets) to control how systems interact with each other. IT teams can use it to govern and secure APIs and integrate data between teams and organizations.

Key Features

• Recipes: Automated workflows with triggers, actions, conditions, and multiple steps
• API Platform: Build, run, and manage APIs in one place
• Workflow Apps: Create custom workflows using a drag-and-drop editor
• Copilot AI: Assists with recipe creation and troubleshooting

Pricing

Workato uses a usage-based pricing model combining workspace costs and task packages. Subscription fees typically range from $15,000 to $50,000 per year based on factors like number of connections, integration styles, and workspace configurations. Task packages start at 1 million tasks with volume discounts available. Contact sales for exact pricing.

Best For

Mid-size to enterprise organizations automating cross-departmental workflows with IT governance requirements.

Not For

Small teams with limited budgets or organizations needing simple point-to-point integrations.

Pros

• Intuitive user interface
• Detailed and well-organized documentation
• Massive library of connectors
• Recipes handle both simple and complex syncs

Cons

• Simple recipes often require complex logic
• Expensive compared to alternatives
• Setting up recipes and triggers can be daunting for first-time users

Jitterbit Harmony

Jitterbit Harmony is a low-code integration platform that allows users to connect systems, automate workflows, and build applications through a visual interface.

Key Features

• Data Loader: Import and export data between Salesforce and other systems
• Message Queue Service: Store and clear messages in queues
• Management Console: Control and monitor APIs and integrations in one place
• Cloud Studio: Create workflows using drag-and-drop interface
• API Manager: Publish, manage, analyze, and secure APIs

Pricing

Custom pricing across Standard, Professional, and Enterprise tiers. Contact sales for quotes.

Best For

Teams that want visual, low-code integration without deep technical requirements.

Not For

Organizations needing granular scripting control or complex bidirectional sync logic.

Pros

• Several pre-built connectors
• User-friendly interface
• Quick deployment for standard use cases

Cons

• Error messages are unclear and difficult to troubleshoot
• Steep learning curve for advanced features
• Limited customization options

Informatica

Informatica is an AI-powered, cloud-based data management platform that automates workflows and business processes. The Informatica Intelligent Data Management Cloud (IDMC) helps businesses consolidate fragmented data end-to-end.

Note: Informatica was acquired by Salesforce in 2025, placing it under the same parent company as MuleSoft.

Key Features

• Data Catalog: Scan and organize metadata
• API Integration: Connect applications and workflows
• Data Marketplace: Cloud-native AI data sharing solution
• Master Data Management (MDM): 360-degree view of business data
• CLAIRE AI Co-pilot: Unifies metadata intelligence

Pricing

Quote-based pricing per Informatica Processing Unit on demand. Tailored to business size.

Best For

Data-centric organizations prioritizing data quality, governance, and analytics over application integration.

Not For

Teams needing quick, lightweight workflow automation or those with limited budgets.

Pros

• Uses AI to improve syncs and data quality
• Tailored pricing for businesses of all sizes
• Connects with numerous on-premise and cloud-based applications

Cons

• Expensive to purchase and maintain
• Complex setup and configuration
• Performance can degrade with increasing workloads

Zapier

Zapier allows users to automate workflows and connect systems across 8,000+ apps without coding. It’s designed for simplicity and quick setup.

Key Features

• Zaps: Automated multi-step workflows
• Tables: Built-in databases
• Interfaces: Custom pages and forms
• Canvas: AI-powered workflow mapping
• Chatbots: Customer-facing automation
• Copilot AI: Helps build and troubleshoot Zaps

Pricing

Best For

Non-technical teams needing simple app-to-app automation with minimal setup.

Not For

Organizations needing complex bidirectional sync, custom scripting, or high-volume automation at a reasonable cost.

Pros

• Easy to configure and use
• Thousands of third-party integrations
• Excellent customer service
• No-code approach accessible to anyone

Cons

• Limited customization for complex workflows
• Costs rise quickly with task volume
• Needs constant monitoring and maintenance
• Task-based pricing becomes expensive at scale

Cleo Integration Cloud

Cleo Integration Cloud allows users to automate API and EDI integrations for better visibility across the supply chain and partner ecosystems.

Key Features

• EDI and API Integration: Connect trading partners and systems
• Managed File Transfer (MFT): Secure file exchange
• B2B Gateway: Partner onboarding and management
• Pre-built Integrations: Standard connectors for common systems

Pricing

Contact sales for pricing.

Best For

Supply chain and logistics organizations with heavy EDI/B2B integration requirements.

Not For

Teams focused on SaaS-to-SaaS workflow automation.

Pros

• User-friendly interface for EDI
• No-code integration support
• Detailed monitoring and tracking data

Cons

• Steep learning curve
• Difficult to customize
• Struggles with high-volume transactions

SnapLogic

SnapLogic integrates, automates, and orchestrates data and applications across organizations using pre-built connectors called “Snaps.”

Key Features

• Snaps: Pre-built connectors for no-code integration
• AutoSync: Pre-packaged pipelines for instant data transfer
• GenAI Builder: Create LLM-powered applications
• SnapGPT: Translate intent into real integrations using AI
• API Management (APIM): Design and manage APIs

Pricing

Premium Snaps start at $9,995/year with two tiers:

• Tier One: +$45k
• Tier Two: +$15k

Contact sales for exact pricing based on your use case.

Best For

Enterprises wanting AI-assisted integration with strong legacy system support.

Not For

Small businesses or teams needing simple, affordable automation.

Pros

• Supports no-code integrations
• Compatible with numerous platforms
• Supports legacy system integration
• Automates data flow using simple logic

Cons

• Requires writing scripts for advanced integrations
• Doesn’t support automated unit testing
• Customer support could be improved
• No auto-retry for failed jobs

Tray.io

Tray is an AI-powered iPaaS solution that automates business processes and connects cloud or on-premise systems through low-code and code-based options.

Key Features

• Tray Build: Low-code workflow editor
• Tray Code: Script-based API interactions
• Tray Chat: AI-powered on-demand assistance
• Merlin AI: Transforms LLM outputs into business processes

Pricing

Available for Pro, Team, and Enterprise plans. Tray Advantage and Tray Advantage Plus support tiers are available. Contact sales for quotes.

Best For

Operations teams automating GTM stack integrations and departmental workflows.

Not For

Teams seeking extensive community resources or a simple no-code setup.

Pros

• User-friendly interface
• Makes process automation easy
• Allows advanced scripting when needed
• Rich library of resources and documentation

Cons

• Limited community support
• Difficult learning curve
• Pricing not transparent

Make (formerly Integromat)

Make is a visual automation platform that connects applications, databases, and web services through automated workflows called scenarios.

Key Features

• Visual Scenario Builder: Drag-and-drop workflow creation
• Advanced Logic Tools: Routers, filters, iterators, and error handlers
• 3,000+ App Connections: Extensive integration library
• AI Features: Make AI Agents and AI Toolkit
• Data Transformation: Built-in tools for transforming data between systems

Pricing

Best For

Teams wanting powerful visual automation at lower cost than competitors like Zapier.

Not For

Organizations needing extensive hand-holding or those who find visual builders confusing.

Pros

• Easy to use once learned
• Intuitive drag-and-drop interface
• Handles complex multi-step scenarios
• More affordable than Zapier at scale

Cons

• Errors can be difficult to debug
• Steeper learning curve than Zapier
• Documentation could be clearer
• Auto-save missing (changes can be lost)

Exalate: The Choice for Complex Bidirectional Integration

If your integration use case involves Salesforce, Jira, ServiceNow, or other enterprise platforms with requirements for bidirectional sync, complex data transformations, or cross-company collaboration, Exalate stands out as an excellent MuleSoft alternative.

Exalate’s scripting flexibility means you’re never limited by templates. The unified console eliminates the need to switch between multiple systems. Aida AI helps you build and troubleshoot faster. And the outcome-based pricing model means you pay for actual sync outcomes rather than arbitrary user counts.

For MSPs managing client integrations, Exalate’s Integration as a Service (IaaS) option provides a scalable foundation. For enterprises needing enterprise-grade security, the Trust Center documents certifications and compliance standards.

To learn more about how Exalate compares to other integration tools, explore our comparison guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best alternative to MuleSoft for small businesses?

For small businesses with limited budgets, Make (formerly Integromat) offers the best balance of capabilities and affordability, starting at $9/month for 10,000 operations. Zapier is another option if you prioritize ease of use over cost efficiency. For businesses needing bidirectional sync with enterprise platforms like Salesforce or Jira, Exalate’s Starter plan at $100/month per integration provides enterprise-grade capabilities at an accessible price point.

Is MuleSoft worth the cost?

MuleSoft is worth considering for large enterprises with complex API management needs across multiple systems and significant IT resources. However, if your primary need is connecting specific applications like Salesforce to Jira or ServiceNow, more specialized tools like Exalate often provide better value with faster implementation times and lower total cost of ownership.

What’s the difference between iPaaS tools like Workato and bidirectional sync tools like Exalate?

iPaaS platforms like Workato, Boomi, and MuleSoft focus on broad application integration, API management, and workflow automation across many systems. Bidirectional sync tools like Exalate specialize in deep, real-time two-way synchronization between specific platforms with granular control over data transformation. Exalate excels when you need complex sync logic, cross-company collaboration, or autonomous control over what each side shares.

How do I choose between Zapier and Exalate?

Choose Zapier if you need simple one-way triggers between apps with no coding, and you’re comfortable with task-based billing. Choose Exalate if you need bidirectional synchronization, complex data transformation logic, cross-company integrations, or granular control over exactly what data flows in each direction.

What support options do MuleSoft alternatives offer?

Support varies by vendor and plan tier:

• Exalate: Community support (Starter), Standard support (Scale), Proof-of-concept support (Pro), Priority support with 2x faster response (Enterprise). Plus extensive documentation and an active community.
• Boomi: Tiered support based on subscription level
• Workato: Varies by plan; enterprise includes 24/7 support
• Zapier: Email support (Pro), Premier support (Team), dedicated manager (Enterprise)

How does outcome-based pricing compare to user-based or task-based pricing?

• User-based pricing (common in some iPaaS tools): Costs scale with team size regardless of actual usage
• Task-based pricing (Zapier, Workato): Costs scale with automation volume, which can become unpredictable
• Outcome-based pricing (Exalate): You pay based on active items in sync, not users or transactions. If you’re syncing 50 work items, you pay for 50 regardless of how many updates or users interact with them. This creates predictable costs aligned with actual business value.

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