Switch an ApsaraDB for Redis instance from subscription to pay-as-you-go when you need flexible, on-demand billing.
Prerequisites
Before you begin, make sure that:
The instance uses the subscription billing method
The instance is in the Running state
If the instance enters the Locked state before you complete payment for the billing method change, the payment may fail. Wait until the instance returns to Running, then resume the payment.
Usage notes
This operation does not interrupt the running state of the instance.
Pay-as-you-go instances are billed by the hour. Keep your account balance positive to avoid overdue payments that cause downtime.
Billing method switching is not available for instances that use phased-out instance types.
For stable, long-term workloads, subscription billing is more cost-effective and offers higher discounts for longer commitment periods.
Refund calculation
After the switch, you receive a partial refund via the original payment method. Coupons and vouchers are not refunded.
Refund = Fee actually paid − Fee for consumed resources
| Component | Definition |
|---|---|
| Fee actually paid | The amount you paid in cash, excluding any coupon or voucher discounts |
| Fee for consumed resources | Daily fee × Consumed subscription duration (days) × Discount for the consumed duration |
| Daily fee | Order amount ÷ 30 |
| Duration precision | Calculated to the day; any partial day counts as a full day |
Example: You purchased a 1-month subscription for $180 (paid in cash, no coupons). You have used 16 days.
Daily fee = $180 ÷ 30 = $6/day
Fee for consumed resources = $6 × 16 × 1.0 = $96
Refund = $180 − $96 = $84
To see the exact refund amount before confirming the switch, check the total configuration cost shown at the bottom of the confirmation page.
Switch to pay-as-you-go
Log in to the console and go to the Instances page. In the top navigation bar, select the region where the instance is deployed.
Find the target instance. In the Actions column, choose  > Switch to Pay-as-you-go Billing.
On the confirmation page, review the notes and verify the total configuration cost shown at the bottom of the page.
If the Switch to Pay-as-you-go Billing option is unavailable, the instance may be using a phased-out instance type and is not eligible for billing method switching.
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API reference
| Operation | Description |
|---|---|
| TransformInstanceChargeType | Changes the billing method of an ApsaraDB for Redis instance between subscription and pay-as-you-go |