Free groups vs paid groups: what is the difference

Free groups

Anyone can join a free group instantly, without spending coins. Free groups are the easiest way to build a community quickly since there is no barrier to entry.

Owners of free groups don't earn coins directly from membership, though the group can still grow, rank well, and host paid features like AI companions if enabled.

Paid groups

Paid groups charge coins to join, based on a plan the owner sets — lifetime, weekly, monthly and similar durations. The price and duration are shown clearly on the join page before anyone pays.

When someone joins a paid group, the coins they spend go toward the owner's balance, matching the type of coin spent (free or paid).

• Free groups: open access, no coin cost
• Paid groups: coin cost shown upfront, tied to a plan
• Both types can rank, use AI companions, and run voice rooms

Choosing which to create

If your goal is reach and volume, a free group grows faster. If you want a smaller, more committed community and a way to earn coins from membership, a paid group makes more sense.

Switching between types

You can change a group's pricing from its settings at any time, though existing members already inside are not retroactively charged or refunded when you switch a free group to paid.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make a paid group free later?

Yes. Open group settings and remove the pricing plan. Members who already joined stay in the group.

Do free groups ever cost coins to join?

No. If a group shows no price on its join page, joining is completely free.

Does group type affect ranking?

No. Ranking is based on activity, member count and recency, not whether the group is free or paid.