Break-Even Point Calculator
Break-even calculator: units and revenue needed to cover fixed costs, from price per unit and variable cost per unit.
Q = Fp − v
How to use this calculator
- Choose the quantity you want under “Solve for”.
- Type the known values and pick their units: any combination works.
- The result updates as you type. Open “Show the steps” to see the substitution.
The break-even point is the sales volume at which revenue covers all costs: Q = fixed costs ÷ (price − variable cost per unit). The denominator is the contribution margin per unit.
Every unit sold beyond the break-even point adds its contribution margin to profit.
Results are estimates for information only and do not constitute financial advice. Your lender’s or bank’s figures may differ.
Formula
Q = Fp − v
| Symbol | Quantity | Units |
|---|---|---|
| F | Fixed costs | $, €, £ |
| p | Price per unit | $, €, £ |
| v | Variable cost per unit | $, €, £ |
| Q | Break-even units | — |
Worked example
Given: F = 12,000.00 $ · p = 50.00 $ · v = 30.00 $
Q = Fp − v
Result: Q = 600
Break-even units for different values of Fixed costs
| F · Fixed costs | Q · Break-even units |
|---|---|
| 6,000.00 $ | 300 |
| 9,000.00 $ | 450 |
| 10,800.00 $ | 540 |
| 12,000.00 $ | 600 |
| 13,200.00 $ | 660 |
| 15,000.00 $ | 750 |
| 18,000.00 $ | 900 |
| 24,000.00 $ | 1 200 |
Other values as in the worked example.
Frequently asked questions
How many units to break even with $12,000 fixed costs, a $50 price and $30 variable cost?
12,000 ÷ (50 − 30) = 600 units, or $30,000 in revenue.
What if the price is below the variable cost?
Each sale loses money, so there is no break-even point; the calculator reports no solution.
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