Question 1

How does the webhook vs polling cost comparator work?

Accepted Answer

You input expected events per hour, polling interval, API cost per request, webhook server cost per month, and average processing time. The calculator then estimates requests per hour/day/month, total API cost, server compute cost, latency, and wasted requests for both approaches. A break-even chart shows at which event frequency webhook becomes cheaper.

Question 2

What is the difference between webhook and polling?

Accepted Answer

Polling repeatedly checks for new data at fixed intervals, causing latency and wasted requests. Webhooks deliver events in real-time, reducing latency and unnecessary requests, but require a persistent server.

Question 3

Which is cheaper: webhook or polling?

Accepted Answer

It depends on event frequency, API cost, and server cost. Polling is often cheaper at low event rates, but webhooks become more cost-efficient as event frequency increases. Use this calculator to find your break-even point.

⚡ Webhook vs Polling Cost Comparator

📊 Break‑even: Total monthly cost vs Events per hour