Is Zwift Free? Cost and Benefits Explained

Is Zwift Free? The Actual Costs of Getting Started

Indoor training costs have gotten complicated with all the subscription models flying around. As someone who’s been through the whole setup process and tried every budget tier, I learned everything there is to know about what you’ll actually spend.

People ask about Zwift pricing all the time. Short answer: no, Zwift isn’t free. But the subscription is only part of the cost. Here’s the full picture.

The Subscription

Zwift costs $14.99/month. That’s it for the software. No annual discount currently (they tried different models over the years). You can pause or cancel anytime.

There’s a free trial – currently 7 days. Enough time to see if you like it.

The Real Costs: Hardware

Probably should have led with this section, honestly. The subscription is the smallest expense. Here’s what you actually need:

Minimum Setup

Basic trainer + speed sensor: $100-200. A basic wheel-on trainer plus a speed/cadence sensor can get you going. Zwift estimates your power based on speed. It works but isn’t accurate.

Device to run Zwift: Phone, tablet, laptop, or Apple TV. If you already own one, no additional cost. Apple TV 4K is popular if you need to buy something – around $130.

ANT+ or Bluetooth connectivity: Most modern sensors work. You might need a dongle ($20-40) for some computers.

Minimum total: $100-300 (assuming you have a bike and a compatible device)

Recommended Setup

Smart trainer: $300-800. A smart trainer measures power directly and controls resistance automatically. This is what makes Zwift actually fun – the trainer simulates hills and you feel the resistance change. Huge difference from basic trainers.

Heart rate monitor: $30-80. Not required but useful for training and earning extra XP in Zwift.

Fan: $30-50. You’ll sweat way more indoors. A good fan is basically mandatory.

Mat: $30-50. Catches sweat, reduces noise, protects floors.

Recommended total: $400-1000

Premium Setup

High-end smart trainer: $800-1400. Quieter, more realistic road feel, more accurate. Wahoo KICKR or Tacx Neo level.

Dedicated screen: $200-400 for a TV or monitor if you want bigger visuals than your laptop.

Quality fan: $100-200. A real industrial or workout fan moves serious air.

Premium total: $1200-2500

Is It Worth the Cost?

Depends on your alternatives and priorities.

Vs. gym membership: Gyms cost $30-100/month. If you’d use a spin bike at the gym anyway, Zwift at home might be cheaper long-term and more convenient.

Vs. just riding outside: If weather allows year-round outdoor riding, Zwift is an extra cost. If you live somewhere with real winters, it’s an investment in maintaining fitness.

Vs. other indoor options: Peloton is $40/month plus expensive equipment. TrainerRoad is $20/month. YouTube workouts are free but lack structure and engagement.

Free Alternatives

If you want to avoid Zwift’s cost entirely:

YouTube cycling workouts – GCN and others offer free structured workouts.

RGT Cycling (now Wahoo RGT) – Has a free tier with limited routes.

Watch TV while riding – Old school but works. Just ride by feel or heart rate.

My Take

That’s what makes indoor training endearing to us cyclists who can’t ride outside year-round. The $15/month is nothing compared to the hardware investment. If you’re serious about indoor training, Zwift is worth trying. The engagement factor keeps people riding when they’d otherwise quit from boredom.

But if you’re budget-conscious, a basic setup with free alternatives can work. You don’t need Zwift to stay fit indoors. It’s a nice-to-have, not a must-have.

Start free, upgrade if needed. No reason to pay $15/month to discover you don’t like indoor riding anyway.