Hi!

Shipnix does not provide the hardware itself, but uses a third-party server provider like DigitalOcean. So the server costs are extra.

Thanks for the feedback. I meant to add a line on the pricing page to clarify this, but it slipped. Will add this withing a few minutes!

Which prompts the question the other way; developers notoriously don't like paying for development tools. Certainly at the hobbyist level.

For running a dinky little VM, I can run that for $5/mo on Digital Ocean or some other hosting provider.

For deploying a NixOS configuration, it's not too difficult to use nixos-infect, or to build a custom ISO. I've not even looked at NixOps or whatever.

What's the value add that's worth $12/mo for managing 1 server (i.e. more than running 2 tiny servers)?

Hi! My thoughts about the hobby plan is really just an entry level tier for those who are not ready yet to invest in the unlimited plans. If no one wants the plan, I can adjust or remove it, no harm in testing the waters.

The target audiences of Shipnix are freelancers, startups and agencies who wants to just spin up an IHP project for example and start creating value for their customers.

These audiences are less likely to adopt NixOS by tinkering with images and nixos-infect. The monthly price is less than what a software engineer costs for one hour.