Free package
The Free package is intended for developers to try out Ably. You can freely experiment with its features, build a proof of concept, or run a hobby project. No credit card is required to sign up and there's no time limit on how long you can use it for.
Features
The Free package gives access to the full Ably platform, including every product and protocol, with a fixed allowance of 500 MAUs each month.
Free package users have access to the following:
- Access to all products: Pub/Sub, AI Transport, Chat, Spaces, LiveObjects and LiveSync
- WebSocket edge infrastructure in 11+ regions and 700+ PoPs
- SOC 2 compliant infrastructure
- Analytics dashboards
- Community and email support, on a best effort basis
Pricing
There is no cost associated with the Free package, and you don't need to provide a credit card in order to use the service.
Limits
Compare the limits associated with each package to see those available on the Free package.
Exceeding Free package limits
Ably won't cut you off when your Free package usage goes over a limit. Your account is restricted until it recovers:
| Limit | Free package | What happens when you exceed it |
|---|---|---|
| Messages (per month) | 6,000,000 | Limited to 1,600 messages per hour until the start of the following month. |
| Concurrent connections | 500 | Connections above the limit are rejected until you're back under it. |
| Concurrent channels | 500 | Channels above the limit are rejected until you're back under it. |
| MAUs (per month) | 500 | Service may be degraded until the start of the following month. |
Support
Free package support is best effort, through email and through community support, including Discord and Stack Overflow.
Upgrade from Free
To upgrade your account from a Free package to a Pro or Business package:
- Ensure you are the account owner.
- Log in to your account and select Packages from the account sidebar.
- Select Change your package, then choose the package, MAU allowance and billing frequency you want.
Your upgrade applies as soon as you pay. Read about how you're billed from then on.
To upgrade to an Enterprise package, contact us to discuss your options.
Close your account
If you're using the Free package, you can close your account at any time.