Hybrid Models

Hybrid pricing combines multiple billing models on a single subscription to capture different types of value.

When should I read this?

Read this if your pricing doesn't fit a single model, or you want to combine base fees with usage charges.

Common hybrid patterns

Base + Usage

A fixed subscription fee plus usage-based charges for consumption.

Example:

  • Base: $99/month platform fee
  • Usage: $0.01 per transaction processed

Seat + Features

Per-user pricing plus add-on features at fixed rates.

Example:

  • Seats: $15/user/month
  • Add-on: Advanced analytics at $50/month

Committed + Overage

Pre-paid usage commitment with per-unit charges for overages.

Example:

  • Commitment: $500/month for 100K API calls
  • Overage: $0.01 per call beyond 100K

Setting up hybrid pricing

In Floatless, create a subscription with multiple line items:

  1. Add a recurring flat-rate item (base fee)
  2. Add a usage-based item (metered charges)
  3. Configure billing interval for each

Invoice presentation

Hybrid subscriptions produce invoices with multiple line items:

Pro Plan (Base)           $99.00
API Usage (45,230 calls)  $45.23
-----------------------------------
Total                    $144.23

Best practices

  • Keep it understandable — too many components confuse customers
  • Align with value — each charge should map to clear value delivered
  • Provide estimates — help customers predict their bills

When to use hybrid

✓ Good for:

  • SaaS with variable resource consumption
  • Platforms with base + transaction fees
  • Enterprise deals with committed minimums

✗ Avoid if:

  • Simple product with predictable usage
  • Customers need absolute price certainty
  • You're just starting out (keep it simple first)

Next steps

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