The matcha powder costs the same either way. The difference is the gear. Hot whisking traditionally needs a chasen (bamboo whisk), a bowl, and a sifter—around $20–30 if you start from scratch. A chasen wears out after a few months, so factor that in.

Iced prep can use a mason jar or a cheap shaker (maybe $10) or your existing blender. You might already have those in the kitchen, so the initial cost could be $0. Over a year, hot whisking may cost a bit more due to chasen replacement, but it's hardly a budget breaker.

If you're trying to keep expenses low, iced prep is the thriftier start.