# How much do Modo builds typically cost?

**Parts costs range from $20 to $150**, depending on project complexity.

## Cost Breakdown by Category:

**Simple Projects ($20-40)**

- Mute button: ~$15-25
- Basic macro pad: ~$30-40
- LED notification light: ~$20-30
- Water leak sensor: ~$20-30

**Medium Projects ($40-80)**

- 60% mechanical keyboard: ~$60-80
- Smart desk clock: ~$35-50
- Volume mixer: ~$40-60
- Soil moisture monitor: ~$25-40

**Complex Projects ($80-150)**

- Stream Deck alternative (OLED): ~$120-150
- Thermal camera: ~$80-120
- Full flight sim panel: ~$80-120
- Ambilight clone: ~$60-80

## What Drives Cost:

**Expensive Components:**

- OLED displays (~$8-15 each)
- Specialty sensors (CO2, thermal)
- Mechanical keyboard switches (in bulk)
- Large LED matrices

**Budget-Friendly Components:**

- Basic buttons and LEDs
- Common microcontrollers
- Simple sensors (temp, motion)
- Passive components

## Compare to Alternatives:

| Solution                          | Cost         |
|-----------------------------------|--------------|
| Pre-built Stream Deck             | $150-250     |
| **DIY Stream Deck (Modo)**        | **$120-150** |
| Pre-built MIDI controller          | $200-400     |
| **DIY MIDI controller**           | **$70-100**  |
| Pre-built air quality monitor      | $100-200     |
| **DIY air quality monitor**       | **$60-80**   |

## Additional Costs:

- **Modo build fee**: $5 (one-time)
- **3D printing**: $2-10 in filament (or free if you have a printer)
- **Shipping**: ~$5-15 from DigiKey
- **Tools** (if needed): Soldering iron ~$30, 3D printer ~$200

Most builders save 30-50% compared to commercial alternatives while getting exactly the features they want.