costs

It varies by provider and model — some charge a flat fee to take an app live, some add a fee to transfer it to your own account, and some rent the whole console monthly. Compare on total cost and on what protection (verification, transfer, build access) is included, not just the headline price.

All three exist: a flat monthly rent per console, a per-app fee, or a share of the revenue the published apps earn. The right model depends on the publisher and what they're putting on your account.

Short-term yes, long-term no. A new account is a one-time $25 plus verification and the testing wait. Over time, your own verified account is cheaper and fully yours — treat renting as a bridge, not a permanent home.