Build vs buy calculator
Compare the true cost of building custom software against paying for an off-the-shelf product, and see when building pays for itself.
Build vs buy, honestly
This calculator compares cost over time. That's an important input, but it isn't the whole decision, so read the number alongside the points below.
The break-even point
Buying is cheaper on day one because there's no upfront cost. Building has a large upfront cost but a lower recurring one. The break-even point is when the cumulative cost of buying catches up to building. Before it, buying is cheaper; after it, building is.
When buying usually wins
- Your team is small, so per-seat costs stay low.
- An existing product fits your needs closely.
- The software isn't core to how you compete.
When building usually wins
- Per-seat costs get painful as you scale up users.
- The software is central to your product or workflow.
- No off-the-shelf option fits without expensive workarounds.
Frequently asked questions
Buy when a product fits and your team is small; build when the software is core to how you compete or when per-seat costs balloon at scale. The break-even point above shows the cost crossover.
Maintenance, hosting, and support. Custom software isn't free to run, which is why this calculator includes a monthly maintenance figure.
Yes. Cost is one factor; fit, control, and speed matter too. Tell me your situation and I'll give you a straight recommendation, even if it's "just buy the SaaS".