Cloud cost · commitments
Savings plan break-even, in one hourly number.
Test whether a fixed hourly commitment beats pay-as-you-go at your usage, using a discount you enter.
Break-even on-demand usage = your commitment per hour. A commitment C at discount d covers C ÷ (1 − d) of on-demand usage; below C of on-demand spend you pay more than pay-as-you-go.
Your usage
Estimate
Method and limits
AWS describes Compute Savings Plans as a commitment measured in $/hour for a 1 or 3 year term, with usage up to the commitment billed at the discounted rate and usage above it billed on-demand. The model covers C ÷ (1 − d) of on-demand usage per hour. If usage is lower than that, you still pay C, so the commitment beats pay-as-you-go only when on-demand usage exceeds C.
Sources, checked 15 October 2026: Compute Savings Plans: "up to 66%" savings, 1 or 3 year terms, commitment in $/hour, applies to EC2, Fargate and Lambda usage; usage beyond the commitment is billed at on-demand rates. Retrieved 15 October 2026. Estimates only: this is not a provider quote, and list prices change. Check the linked page and your own account before committing spend.
Frequently asked questions
What is the break-even for a savings plan?
The commitment pays off once your eligible on-demand-equivalent usage exceeds the hourly commitment. Below that you pay the full commitment for less usage than it covers.
What discount should I enter?
Use the rate shown for your term, payment option and services in the AWS console or your quote. The AWS page states savings of up to 66%, which is a ceiling and not a rate, so this tool has no fixed discount.
Does the plan cover Lambda?
AWS states Compute Savings Plans also apply to Fargate and Lambda usage in addition to EC2.
What if my usage fluctuates?
Enter an average, then test a lower figure. Hourly variation is not simulated; this is a steady-state model.