Break-Even Calculator | Simple, Target Profit & Analysis
Run break-even analysis in simple mode, calculate units needed for target profit, and evaluate projected sales-volume scenarios in analysis mode.
When Should You Use This Calculator?
- Determine the sales volume needed to cover all costs
- Calculate break-even point for new products or services
- Analyze profitability at different sales volumes
- Plan pricing strategies based on cost structure
- Evaluate business viability for startups
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter fixed costs, variable cost per unit, and price per unit.
- Review the break-even point in units and revenue, plus contribution margin.
- Optionally enter a planned sales volume to see projected profit at that specific volume.
- Switch to Target Profit mode to solve for the units needed to hit a specific profit goal instead.
Key Features:
- Two modes: Simple and Target Profit
- Break-even units and revenue with contribution margin diagnostics
- Target-profit mode estimates required sales volume
- Optional planned-sales-volume field projects profit with chart context
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the break-even point?
The break-even point is the sales volume where Total Revenue equals Total Costs (Fixed + Variable). At this point you cover all costs but make zero profit. Selling even one unit more generates profit.
Why distinguish fixed vs. variable costs?
Fixed costs (rent, salaries, insurance) do not change with production volume. Variable costs (materials, commissions) scale with each unit sold. This distinction is crucial for calculating contribution margin and understanding how profit grows with scale.
What is contribution margin and how does it relate to break-even?
Contribution Margin = Selling Price - Variable Cost per Unit. It represents how much each sale contributes to covering fixed costs. Break-Even Units = Fixed Costs / Contribution Margin. A higher contribution margin means you reach break-even faster.
How do I calculate how many units I need to sell to hit a target profit?
Target Profit Units = (Fixed Costs + Target Profit) / Contribution Margin. Use Target Profit mode in this calculator — enter your desired net profit and it solves for required units and revenue.
Can I export my Break-Even Calculator calculations?
Yes. In guest mode you can export your calculations to JSON. Signing in adds PDF and CSV export. Click the export button to download your results — useful for record-keeping, sharing, or importing into other tools.
Does this calculator save my history?
Yes. Your calculation history is saved automatically. As a guest you can keep up to 50 calculations per workspace on your device. Sign in for free to keep up to 100 per workspace and access them from any device.
Is this calculator free to use?
Yes. The Break-Even Calculator is free to use with no sign-up required. A free account adds more calculation history, multiple workspaces, and access to your saved data from any device.
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