8 Essential n8n Nodes You Should Master in 2026

I just dropped a new video breaking down the core nodes you need to understand if you want to build solid, scalable automations in n8n this year.

This is based entirely on real experience — from simple CRM automations to complex AI-powered workflows with agents, tools, and sub-flows.

In the video, I walk through:

The triggers you’ll use all the time (and why they’re more powerful than they look)
How to properly use Set / Edit Fields to clean and structure data
Why HTTP Request + Code unlock almost any integration
When to use IF vs Switch
The difference between AI Agents vs Message Model steps
Why Sub-workflows are a must once things start getting complex

If you’ve ever built something that worked but felt overcomplicated — this video will help you rethink how you design automations.

I’d also recommend revisiting one of your older workflows after watching and asking yourself:“How would I rebuild this today using these nodes?”

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