Mac mini vs VPS vs cloud computer for an always-on AI agent: what does it cost?
Over 12 months a small VPS is cheapest and a Mac mini pays off only over years or for macOS. A managed agent computer adds isolation, snapshots and no server to run.
Always-on personal agents
Host Hermes Agent, OpenClaw and other assistants that run around the clock.
Guides in this section
How do I run Hermes Agent in the cloud with memory, skills, an inbox and Telegram?
Create a Sanbox Hermes Computer template with the email and Telegram channels, then start one always-on run with an AgentMail address and your Telegram bot. Memory and skills stay on its disk.
Where should I host OpenClaw so it keeps running?
OpenClaw's docs say to use a VPS for 24/7 reliability and a Mac only for iMessage or macOS tools. A one-click OpenClaw Computer on Sanbox is enabled on request.
Give your AI agent its own phone number
Sanbox gives an agent its own phone number, so people can reach it by text message. It's enabled per organisation on request. Today, Hermes Computers take email and Telegram.