The $20 AI Stack Works Great Until Your Startup Hits 2 Users, Then AWS Bills Arrive

The concept of the $20 AI stack has been gaining attention, with many comparing the monthly costs of various coding stacks. However, this approach is flawed when building complex systems, as the cost curve changes significantly. When transitioning from building apps to large-scale platforms, the focus shifts from cost optimization to scalability and reliability. Platform convenience has a ceiling, and builders may intentionally spend more to achieve their goals. Two builders may have different approaches, with one prioritizing cost-effectiveness and the other focusing on scalability. The honest answer is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and the cost curve stops being flat once a certain threshold is crossed. This has significant implications for the industry, as builders must carefully consider their architectural decisions to avoid dependency anxiety and friction. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize that different problems require different solutions, and what works for one builder may not work for another.