What is the n8n data store node?
Quick answer
The n8n data store node is the built-in Data table node: it saves rows of data inside n8n itself, so a workflow can remember things between runs. You use it to insert, look up, update or upsert rows in a table, without connecting Google Sheets or a database.
Last updated
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Updated · By Robert Breen
Why it matters for a small business
Most workflows forget everything when a run ends. That is fine until you need memory: which leads you already emailed, which invoice numbers you already logged, the last time a job ran. Without it, a workflow sends the same email twice or adds the same row again.
The Data table node is n8n's answer: a dedupe list or a small lookup table lives right next to the workflow, with no extra account or credential to manage.
Data table node operations, and a business use for each
| Operation | What it does | Example use |
|---|---|---|
| Insert | Adds a new row | Log each new web lead with the date it arrived |
| Get | Reads rows that match your conditions | Look up a customer's tier before an AI step writes a reply |
| Update | Changes rows that match | Mark a lead as Contacted after the follow-up goes out |
| Upsert | Updates the row if it exists, adds it if not | Keep one row per email address, however often the form is sent |
| If Row Exists, If Row Does Not Exist | Passes items on only when a match is, or is not, found | Skip invoice numbers you have already processed |
| Delete | Removes rows that match | Clear test rows before you go live |
Row operations as listed in the node. There are also table operations: Create, List, Update and Delete. The example uses are mine.
In a real lesson: n8n: Read, Add and Update Google Sheets Rows with an AI Step
The free n8n Google Sheets lesson solves the same "remember what you already did" problem with a sheet instead. Northgate Content Studio, a made-up team, keeps its content requests in Google Sheets, and the workflow uses Append or Update Row with Column to match on set to a unique column, so running it twice never creates a duplicate.
A Data table does the same job with Upsert, matched on the same unique column. I pick the sheet when people need to see and edit the list, and the Data table when only the workflow needs it.
Try this lesson free or read the step-by-step guide.
How AI helps
The node also has a tool version for the AI Agent node, so an agent can look up or save rows while it works, for example checking a price list table before it answers. Start it on read-only lookups before you let it write.
Common confusions
n8n Data table vs Make data store
"Data store" is the name Make uses for its built-in storage. In n8n the built-in equivalent is called Data table, which is why searches for an n8n data store node often come up empty.
Data table vs Google Sheets
A Data table lives inside n8n and needs no credential. A Google Sheet is easier for people to read, share and edit. Pick by who needs to see the data.
Tips
- If you do not see the Data table node, check your n8n version. It is a newer node, and older installs do not have it.
Related terms
More n8n and automation terms
Where you use it: free lessons
- n8n: Read, Add and Update Google Sheets Rows with an AI Step (n8n, 12 min)
- n8n AI Agent Tutorial: Save Social Media Ideas to Google Sheets (n8n, 12 min)
Frequently asked questions
- Does n8n have a data store node?
- Yes, under a different name. The built-in node for saving data between workflow runs is called Data table. Search for "Data table" in the node panel.
- Where is the n8n data store node documentation?
- Look for the Data table node in the official n8n docs at docs.n8n.io, since that is its real name. This page covers what it does and when to use it.
- Should I use a Data table or Google Sheets in n8n?
- Use a Data table when only the workflow needs the data, such as a list of IDs you already processed. Use Google Sheets when people need to read or edit it.