What is a key characteristic of the consumption-based pricing model?

The consumption-based pricing model, also known as pay-as-you-go, means you are charged only for the resources you actually use. This offers flexibility and cost-effectiveness as you don't pay for idle capacity. Flat-rate monthly billing is a fixed cost, regardless of usage, which is not consumption-based. Reserved capacity for 3 years is a commitment-based model where you pay upfront for a discounted rate, differing from consumption-based. Daily minimum fees would mean you pay even if you don't use the service, which contradicts the "pay for what you use" principle.