In this article, we are going to discuss about Snowflake Editions, like what they are called, their features, diffrences, as well as pricing models that impact each edition.

Knowing about the different Snowflake editions and pricing models is crucial for selecting the best option to meet your organisation’s needs.

Table of Contents

How do Editions Work?

Snowflake offers multiple editions tailored to meet the diverse needs of organisations. Each edition builds on the previous one, think of it like a piramid, adding new features and higher levels of service as you progress, with most users/ organisations needing diffrent editions for their security requirements and posture.

Transitioning between editions is straightforward, accommodating growing or changing requirements like the ability to TAG for example.

Pricing Models

As explained previously, pricing changes based on edition, Snowflake has two pricing models.

On Demand

The On Demand pricing model is usage-based with no long-term commitments. This flexible model is ideal for organisations that prefer to pay only for the resources they use.

Capacity

The Capacity pricing model offers discounted pricing based on an upfront capacity commitment.

Being able to choose between editions and capacity within those editions is really suited for organisations that can predict their usage and want to benefit from cost savings.

Savings can vary but with simple commitments upfront and some initial planning in the design phase could save costs as high as 40% for storage.

Snowflake Editions

Standard Edition

The Standard Edition is the introductory level offering:

• Full access to all standard Snowflake features.
• Balances features, support, and cost.

Features change from time to time with new features being added regularly, it is recommended that you review the documentation for the latest on what specific features are included with Standard.

Enterprise Edition

The Enterprise Edition includes all Standard Edition features, plus:

• Additional features for large-scale enterprises.
• Enhanced support and services.

Features change from time to time with new features being added regularly, it is recommended that you review the documentation for the latest on what specific features are included with Enterprise.

Business Critical Edition

The Business Critical Edition includes all Enterprise Edition features, plus:

• Enhanced security and data protection.
• Supports PHI data in compliance with HIPAA and HITRUST CSF regulations.
• Features database failover/failback for business continuity and disaster recovery.

Features change from time to time with new features being added regularly, it is recommended that you review the documentation for the latest on what specific features are included with Business Critical Edition.

Virtual Private Snowflake (VPS)

The VPS edition offers the highest level of security:

• Includes all Business Critical Edition features.
• Provides an isolated Snowflake environment with no resource sharing.
• Option to enable data sharing with non-VPS customers.

To use VPS, you will need to speak to your Snowflake Representitive assigned to your account, this is not an edition that can be brought and will need time/planning.