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ApsaraDB for SelectDB:Change the billing method

Last Updated:Mar 28, 2026

ApsaraDB for SelectDB supports switching between pay-as-you-go and subscription billing. Your workloads continue running without interruption during the switch.

Billing methodPaymentBest for
SubscriptionPrepaidLong-term, stable workloads. Longer terms get larger discounts.
Pay-as-you-goPostpaid, billed by hourShort-term or test workloads. Release resources at any time.

Switch from pay-as-you-go to subscription

Switching generates a subscription order. The billing method does not change until payment is complete. To complete or cancel the order, go to the Expenses and Costs console.

Pay-as-you-go instances are billed by hour. Keep your account balance sufficient to avoid downtime from overdue payments.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure that:

  • The instance billing method is pay-as-you-go

  • The instance is in the Running state

  • The instance has no unpaid subscription orders

Steps

  1. Log on to the ApsaraDB for SelectDB console.

  2. In the top navigation bar, select the region where your instance resides.

  3. On the Instances page, find the instance and open the switch page using either method:

    • Click More > Change to Subscription > Actions

    • Click the instance ID to go to the Instance Details page, then click Change to Subscription in the Instance Status section.

  4. On the ApsaraDB for SelectDB (Subscription) | Switch to Subscription page, set the Duration and confirm the Expiration Date.

  5. Select Terms of Service, then click Buy Now and complete the payment.

Switch from subscription to pay-as-you-go

When you switch from subscription to pay-as-you-go, the billing methods of all clusters in the instance change to pay-as-you-go. Workloads continue running without interruption.

After the switch, a refund is issued to your original payment method. Stored-value card balances are refunded; coupons and vouchers are not. For details, see Rules for unsubscribing from resourcesRules for unsubscribing from resources and Refund destinations.

Subscription is more cost-effective for long-term use. Avoid switching to pay-as-you-go if you plan to use the instance long-term.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure that:

  • The instance billing method is subscription

  • The instance is in the Running state

  • Your Alibaba Cloud account balance is sufficient

If the instance is locked due to expiration, renew it before switching. See Renewal policy.

Steps

  1. Log on to the ApsaraDB for SelectDB console.

  2. In the top navigation bar, select the region where your instance resides.

  3. On the Instances page, find the instance and open the switch page using either method:

    • Click More > Change to Pay-as-you-go > Actions

    • Click the instance ID to go to the Instance Details page, then click Change to Pay-as-you-go in the Instance Status section.

  4. On the ApsaraDB for SelectDB (Pay-as-you-go) | Switch to Pay-As-You-Go page, read the notes and select Terms of Service.

  5. Click Buy Now and complete the payment.