If you want the short version: Zapier is usually easier to operate, while Make gives you more flexibility if you can tolerate more complexity.
Where the wrong choice hurts
Zapier usually wins when the priority is simplicity and lower operating friction. Make usually wins when the workflow needs deeper branching and more custom handling.
If AI tools are also part of your workflow, see Best AI Assistants for Work for a practical comparison of the assistants teams actually use alongside automation tools.
What people get wrong
The most common mistake is choosing based on flexibility alone without thinking about who will actually maintain the workflows later.