How the calculation works
Cost per use is what owning something costs in total, divided by how many times you use it.
Cost per use = (price − resale value + upkeep × years) ÷ (years × 52 × uses per week) + cost each time
Example: shoes cost 6,000 and you wear them 3 times a week for 2 years. That is 312 wears, so each wear costs about 19. The same shoes worn only 20 times cost 300 a wear.
What this calculator does that simple ones do not
- It counts the whole cost of owning. Resale value, yearly upkeep and the cost of each use change the answer.
- It shows a reality check. People tend to use new things less than they plan. The table shows the cost if you use it 25% and 50% less.
- It compares two items properly. If the cheap item wears out in two years, you must buy it again. The compare mode includes that.
- It shows how many uses you need to reach the cost per use you want.
How to read the number
There is no single good number for everything. A kettle used daily should cost very little per use. A winter coat used 30 days a year can cost more per use and still be fair. Compare with similar things you already own, not with an average.
| You use it | What to ask |
|---|---|
| Every day | A high price can still be a low cost per use. Is the lifespan you entered realistic? |
| A few times a month | Cost per use climbs fast. Could you borrow, rent or buy used? |
| Once or twice | You pay almost the full price each time. Wait before buying. |
Where the number can mislead you
- Optimistic use. Gym memberships are the classic case: many people plan to go far more often than they do. Use your past habits.
- Forgetting upkeep. Cars, cameras and appliances cost more after you buy them.
- A low number is not a reason to buy. A cheap-per-use item you do not need is still money spent.
- Some things are not about use. Gifts, memories and safety items do not fit this formula.
Questions
Is cost per use the same as cost per wear?
Yes. Cost per wear is the same idea for clothes: the price divided by the number of times you wear them.
Should I include running costs?
Yes if the item has them. A printer is cheap until you buy ink. Enter the cost of each use, or the upkeep per year, to include it.
What if I am not sure how often I will use it?
Try a lower number. If the cost per use still looks fine at half your guess, the purchase is on firmer ground. If it does not, give it 48 hours first.
Is my information saved?
No. Everything is calculated in your browser. The 'copy link' button only builds a web address that contains your numbers, so you can send it to a friend.
Is this financial advice?
No. It is simple arithmetic to help you think. The decision is yours.
Not sure? Give it 48 hours.
Freeze the item you are tempted to buy. It is free, needs no account, and everything stays on your device.
Freeze it for 48 hours