The concept of fully autonomous AI agents is enticing, promising to handle tasks independently once a goal is set, but it often comes with the tradeoff of losing some control, as large language models (LLMs) can deviate unpredictably. This guide explores the balance between autonomy and oversight in AI agents, highlighting that the degree of autonomy required varies by industry and task. It examines 12 autonomous AI agents, ranging from user-friendly no-code platforms to advanced systems, and discusses how tools like n8n enable custom workflows with precise autonomy levels. Autonomous AI agents excel in complex, multi-step processes where human involvement might slow progress, yet they require careful integration and monitoring to ensure reliability and alignment with business goals. The guide also delves into the characteristics that differentiate autonomous from traditional AI agents, emphasizing goal-driven behavior, multi-step planning, and tool integration. Additionally, it describes various use cases and industry-specific applications, from legal and sales to web navigation and strategic decision-making, while also providing insights into building tailored AI agents using n8n.