A token system (also called credits or coins) is a pay-per-use pricing model common in AI companion platforms. Instead of a flat monthly subscription, users buy packs of tokens and spend them on individual actions like sending messages, generating images, making voice calls, or creating videos.
How Token Systems Work
Tokens function as an in-app currency:
- Purchase — Buy token packs ($5–$50+) or earn free tokens through daily logins
- Spend — Each action costs a set number of tokens (e.g., 1 token per message, 5 tokens per image, 20 tokens per video)
- Replenish — Buy more tokens or wait for daily free allocations
Token vs Subscription Models
| Model | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Tokens | Pay only for what you use, no recurring charges | Can get expensive with heavy use |
| Subscription | Unlimited or high-volume messaging, predictable cost | Pay even when not using |
| Hybrid | Base subscription with token add-ons for premium features | More complex pricing |
Many platforms use hybrid models: a subscription covers unlimited text chat, while image generation, voice calls, and video use tokens. OurDream AI uses DreamCoins, Candy AI uses a credit system for images, and Nectar AI uses tokens for premium content generation.
Maximizing Token Value
Free daily tokens can cover basic chatting on most platforms. Image generation is typically the biggest token sink. Voice and video features consume tokens fastest. Compare per-token costs across platforms before committing to large purchases.
