Translation Credits System Explained

Credits are how NovelHub measures translation usage. Every chapter translation consumes credits based on the chapter's length. If you are just getting started, the Quickstart guide shows how credits fit into the normal translation workflow.

TL;DR — 1 credit = 100 Chinese characters. A typical chapter (3,000–5,000 characters) costs 30–50 credits. Credits reset monthly; buy Credit Packs ($1.99/2,000 credits) that never expire.

How credits work

• Each plan includes a monthly credit allowance (Free: 1,000 / Starter: 10,000 / Pro: 50,000)
• Translating a chapter deducts credits based on its length
• Credits reset at the start of each billing cycle
• Unused credits do not roll over.

For a side-by-side feature breakdown, see Plans & Limits.

Credit consumption

The number of credits a chapter uses depends on its length. Longer chapters with more text consume more credits. Short chapters (1,000-2,000 characters) use fewer credits than long ones (5,000+ characters).

Credits are deducted after a translation completes successfully. If a translation fails or is interrupted, no credits are charged.

When a translation starts, the estimated credits are locked (reserved) from your balance. This prevents over-spending if you launch multiple translations simultaneously. If the translation succeeds, the locked credits are consumed. If it fails, the locked credits are released back to your balance.

Tracking your usage

Your current credit balance is visible in the quota badge on your dashboard. It shows:

• Credits remaining this cycle
• Total credits in your plan
• A visual indicator of usage

For more detailed usage history, check Settings → Subscription.

When you run out

If your credits run out before the billing cycle resets:

• Existing translations remain accessible — you can always re-read translated chapters
• New translations are paused until credits reset or you upgrade
• Upgrade to a higher plan for more credits immediately

Re-translation costs

Re-translating an already-translated chapter costs credits just like the first translation. The previous translation is replaced with the new one.

Batch translation and credits

When using batch translation (Starter and Pro plans), credits are consumed per chapter as each one completes. The batch panel shows a running total of credits used during the batch. See Batch Translation for the workflow and planning tips before launching larger jobs.

Before starting a batch, you'll see an estimated credit cost. Actual usage may differ since chapter lengths vary.

Tips for managing credits

Check before batch translating. Make sure you have enough credits for the number of chapters you want to translate.

Translate strategically. If you are on the Free plan, focus on novels you are most interested in. Translate the first chapter before committing to a full novel.

Monitor the quota badge. Keep an eye on your remaining credits throughout the month to avoid running out unexpectedly.