Free tool
MVP cost calculator
Answer three quick questions about your product and get an instant cost range, build timeline, and complexity score — powered by real project data from Codalyst Tech.
- Instant estimate — no call required
- Based on real Codalyst Tech project rates
- Feature-level breakdown available free
- No spam — we may offer a free expert review
$4k–$48k
Typical MVP range
based on scope & features
4–20 wks
Build timeline
from kickoff to launch
50–70%
Cost saving
vs. Western agency rates
24 hrs
Proposal turnaround
if you want a real quote
What are you building?
Select the type that best describes your product.
All estimates are indicative and based on standard Codalyst Tech rates ($15–$45/hr). Actual quotes may vary based on design requirements, scope refinement, and integrations.
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is the MVP cost estimate?
The estimate is based on Codalyst Tech's actual project rates and feature complexity data from real builds. It is intentionally a range rather than a fixed number because every project has unique requirements. The detailed breakdown (unlocked with your email) gives you feature-level figures and explains what can be cut for v1. Use the free estimate to get directional clarity, then request a fixed-price proposal for a binding number.
What is included in the build cost?
The estimate covers engineering time — frontend, backend, and integration development. It does not include UI/UX design fees, content creation, custom illustrations, third-party software licences, or ongoing infrastructure costs after launch. A typical MVP also needs between $50 and $300 per month in hosting and API costs depending on the features selected.
Why does adding AI features increase cost significantly?
AI integrations require more than just an API call. You need prompt engineering, output validation, error handling for model failures, rate limiting, cost monitoring, and often a feedback loop to improve results over time. The $6,000 to $14,000 range for AI features reflects this full engineering investment, not just the API subscription.
Can I build an MVP for less than the estimate shows?
Yes, in most cases. The three most effective ways to reduce cost are: starting with a no-code or low-code prototype to validate the idea before custom development, delaying complex features like real-time functionality or marketplace logic to v2, and launching as a web app before building a mobile app. The detailed breakdown includes specific cost-saving suggestions tailored to your selections.
How much does it cost to build an MVP?
The cost to build a minimum viable product (MVP) varies widely depending on the type of product, the features included, and the development team you choose. A simple web app MVP with basic auth and a core workflow can cost as little as $5,000–$10,000 with an offshore team. A marketplace or AI powered tool with complex logic can run $25,000–$50,000 or more.
With Codalyst Tech, you get access to senior developers at rates of $15–$45/hr — significantly below the $75–$175/hr typical of US or Australian agencies. That means the same quality product for 50–70% less cost.
Main cost drivers for an MVP:
- Product type: a marketplace or AI tool costs more than a simple SaaS dashboard
- Number of features: each feature adds development time and complexity
- User roles: more roles means more permission logic and testing
- Integrations: connecting to payment providers, CRMs, or external APIs adds scope
- Real-time features: live chat, notifications, and feeds require more infrastructure
- Timeline: rushing a build adds coordination overhead and can increase cost
The best way to reduce MVP cost is to ruthlessly prioritise: build only what is needed to test your core hypothesis. Delay admin dashboards, AI features, and complex reporting to a later version. Ship lean, learn fast, and add complexity with confidence.