> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.loadforge.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Cloud Costs

> Understanding cloud costs on LoadForge.

LoadForge utilizes **DigitalOcean** to power its load generation capabilities. By running tests through our platform, you can leverage the **scalability of cloud infrastructure** to simulate real-world traffic scenarios efficiently.

By default, LoadForge provides **test minutes**, which allow you to run tests on our managed cloud infrastructure. However, you also have the option to **bring your own DigitalOcean account** for cost savings and additional flexibility.

## DigitalOcean Integration and Costs

If you choose to integrate your own **DigitalOcean account**, LoadForge will launch its test servers directly within your cloud environment. This means:

* You are responsible for **all fees** associated with running the cloud instances.
* Costs depend on **test duration and the number of workers required**.

Typical pricing per test:

* **Small tests (10,000 users)**: \~\$0.05 - \$0.10 per test.
* **Larger tests (50,000+ users)**: \~\$0.40 - \$1 per test.
* **High-scale tests (100,000+ users)**: \~\$1 - \$3 per test.

<Note>
  **Don’t have a DigitalOcean account?**
  No worries! You can still run tests using LoadForge’s managed cloud infrastructure. However, this will incur a slightly higher charge per test.
</Note>

## Understanding Test Costs

LoadForge ensures full **cost transparency** before each test:

* **Cost estimates** are provided before you start a test.
* **VM pricing** varies based on the number of users and test workers deployed.
* DigitalOcean charges by the **hour**, meaning:
  * You are billed for a **full hour per worker**, even if the test runs for a shorter duration.
  * A **controller is always launched**, so your total cost includes **1 controller + number of workers**.

<Note>
  When using LoadForge's managed cloud, billing is calculated **per minute** — you only pay for the time you actually use.
</Note>

<Note>
  **Worker Capacity**
  Each worker can handle **10,000 - 20,000 virtual users** efficiently.
</Note>

## Sample Cost Estimations

For a clearer understanding, here are sample costs based on **user load**:

```text theme={null}
~10,000 virtual users = $0.11
~70,000 virtual users = $0.66
~200,000 virtual users = $3.57
```

While smaller tests are highly cost-effective, larger-scale tests require more resources. LoadForge is still significantly **cheaper than many competitors**, ensuring affordability at all scales.

## Using LoadForge’s Managed Cloud Infrastructure

If you choose **not to integrate** your own DigitalOcean account, LoadForge provides an **easy-to-use cloud solution**:

* **\$1 per server per hour**, billed by the minute.
* **Billing is calculated per minute** — you only pay for the time you actually use.
* **No additional setup required**—simply run your test and let LoadForge handle the infrastructure.

**Example**: Running a **30-minute test** using **2 servers** on LoadForge’s cloud will cost **\$1** (half the hourly rate).

## Choosing the Right Option

| Feature             | Bring Your Own Cloud   | Use LoadForge’s Cloud                   |
| ------------------- | ---------------------- | --------------------------------------- |
| **Setup Required**  | Yes                    | No                                      |
| **Cost Efficiency** | Lower per test         | Flat rate per minute                    |
| **Flexibility**     | Full control           | Managed for you                         |
| **Billing Model**   | \$0.11 per server/hour | \$1 per server/hour (billed per minute) |

We recommend **starting with LoadForge’s cloud** for simplicity. Once comfortable, you can switch to your own **DigitalOcean account** for **cost savings** and **greater control**.

Before launching any test, LoadForge provides a **clear cost breakdown**, ensuring that you **never incur unexpected charges**.