Archive Node Query Cost Estimator

WHAT IT DOES

Archive Node Query Cost Estimator is a read-only developer tool that estimates the cost of querying blockchain archive nodes from major RPC providers (Alchemy, Infura, QuickNode, Ankr, and public endpoints). It analyzes the block range, query type, and estimated request volume to calculate base costs, archive multipliers, and monthly projections. The tool helps developers budget for historical data access, compare provider pricing, and make informed decisions about which RPC provider best fits their archive query needs—critical for applications that need to read historical state, process event logs over large ranges, or verify historical balances.

HOW TO USE

Connect your EVM-compatible wallet via the BGWallet bridge and select the network you are targeting. Enter the contract address, the start and end block range, and select the query type (eth_getLogs, eth_getStorageAt, eth_getProof, eth_getBalance, or eth_getCode). Provide an estimated number of requests (default 1000). Click "Estimate Cost" to generate a detailed cost breakdown across five major providers. Results include a block range summary, archive data requirement indicator, recommended provider, and a cost table showing per-request costs, estimated request counts, base costs, archive multipliers, and monthly estimates. The tool also provides a recommendation based on the most cost-effective provider for the specified workload. All analysis is read-only—no signatures or transactions are submitted.

TECHNICAL MECHANISM

The tool uses a static cost estimation engine calibrated with industry-standard RPC pricing data. The block range is calculated as end_block - start_block + 1. Archive data is flagged if the block range exceeds 1,000,000 blocks or the start block is before block 1,000,000. The estimated request count is adjusted based on query type: eth_getLogs estimates ~20 logs per block (capped by user input), eth_getStorageAt estimates 0.5 reads per block, and eth_getProof estimates 0.1 reads per block. Provider cost models are built from public pricing: Alchemy at $0.0000035/request with a 3x archive multiplier and $49/month minimum; Infura at $0.000005/request with a 5x archive multiplier (no minimum); QuickNode at $0.000004/request with a 4x archive multiplier and $49/month minimum; Ankr at $0.000003/request with a 2.5x archive multiplier (no minimum); Public endpoints at $0/request (free, but rate-limited). Monthly costs are calculated as max(archive_cost, min_monthly). Providers are sorted by estimated monthly cost to identify the most cost-effective option. The tool does not make actual RPC calls—estimates are based on pricing models and statistical assumptions.

WHAT IT CANNOT SEE

This tool has fundamental limitations that users must understand. It cannot provide exact cost quotes without access to provider-specific pricing tiers—the tool uses published pricing but does not connect to provider billing APIs. It cannot estimate costs for providers that use different pricing models (e.g., per-CU vs. per-request vs. subscription)—some providers use compute units, not request counts. It cannot account for free tier allowances or promotional credits—many providers offer free tiers that the tool does not track. It cannot predict future cost changes or rate adjustments—provider pricing changes over time and the tool's data is static. It cannot estimate costs for queries that require multiple chained RPC calls—complex queries may require multiple sequential requests. It cannot optimize query patterns to reduce costs automatically—the tool provides estimates but does not suggest optimizations. It cannot account for regional pricing differences or discounts for high-volume commitments. It cannot account for overage charges or rate-limit penalties. The tool's request volume estimation is heuristic and may not match actual usage patterns. The tool assumes consistent per-request pricing, which may not reflect tiered or bulk pricing structures.

PLEASE NOTE

This tool only supports EVM-compatible blockchains (Ethereum, Polygon, BSC, Avalanche C-Chain, Optimism, Arbitrum, and their testnets). Solana, Tron, Starknet, SUI, TON, Aptos, Bitcoin, Cosmos, and XRP are not supported. The tool is free, open-source, requires no API keys, and uses the wallet's native provider for all read operations. Costs are estimates only—always verify with your chosen provider's official pricing documentation before committing to a plan.