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Configure compute resources for a Databricks app

Each Databricks app runs on compute resources that determine its processing power and memory. Choose an instance size when you create or edit an app to match your workload requirements.

Available instance sizes

The following instance sizes are available for Databricks apps:

Size

CPU

Memory

Cost per hour

When to use

Medium

Up to 2 vCPUs

6 GB

0.5 DBU

Standard apps with moderate resource needs, such as dashboards, simple data visualizations, and forms. Most apps work well with this size.

Large

Up to 4 vCPUs

12 GB

1 DBU

Apps that process large datasets in memory, handle high concurrency, or perform more intensive computations.

If you don't specify an instance size, Databricks assigns the Medium size by default.

Configure instance size

Configure the instance size when you create or edit an app.

To set the instance size when you create a new app:

  1. Click compute icon Compute in the sidebar.
  2. Go to the Apps tab.
  3. Click Create app.
  4. In the Configure step under Compute, select an instance size from the drop-down.
  5. Complete the remaining configuration steps and click Create app.

View the current instance size for an app on the Overview tab.

Best practices for instance sizing

When you choose an instance size for your app, consider the following best practices:

  • Most apps work well with the default Medium size. Only choose Large if you encounter performance issues or know your app has high resource requirements.
  • Test your app with the selected instance size in a development or staging workspace before you deploy it to production.
  • Consider cost implications. The Large instance size costs more per hour.