How the calculator works
- Break-even = monthly costs ÷ what you receive per paying subscriber.
- Month 1 paying subscribers = free subscribers × conversion rate.
- Each later month = last month's paying subscribers minus churn, plus new free subscribers × conversion rate.
- Payback is the first month where cumulative profit covers your one-time setup cost.
All numbers are your own assumptions. Telegram's subscription prices, Stars value and payout rules can change, so use what your earnings statistics actually show. Withdrawals and waiting periods are explained in how Telegram Stars withdrawals work.
What moves the result most
- Churn: a few points less monthly churn often matters more than a higher price.
- Free audience size: paid members come from free readers, so growing the free channel feeds the paid one.
- Starting point: an established channel with an existing audience shortens the time to break even; compare old channels with subscribers and estimate their value with the channel value calculator.
More ways to earn from a channel: 8 ways to monetize a Telegram channel.
More free tools: all Telegram tools.
Frequently asked questions
How many subscribers do I need for a paid Telegram channel to break even?
Divide your monthly costs by what you receive per paying subscriber. For example, $150 of costs and $4 per subscriber needs 38 paying subscribers.
What conversion rate should I assume?
There is no standard rate; it depends on your niche and offer. Start with a conservative assumption and replace it with your real numbers after launch.
Does the calculator include Telegram's fees?
No built-in fees. Enter the amount you actually receive per subscriber after fees, as shown in your earnings statistics.
Why does my paid audience shrink in the projection?
Monthly churn removes more paying members than new conversions add. Grow the free audience or reduce churn.
Is my data saved?
No. The calculator runs in your browser.
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