Alchemy pays in every version of WoW, but in TBC Classic your specialization choice decides how it pays: in bursts, in volume, or in guaranteed weekly checks.
Transmute Master: the passive check
The proc chance on transmutes turns your daily Primal Might into a small lottery that averages out beautifully. Primal Might sells to blacksmiths and engineers all expansion; one cooldown a day with occasional multi-procs is the highest profit per minute played in the entire profession. The catch: it is capped by the cooldown, so it scales with alts, not effort.
Elixir Master: the raider's engine
Elixir spec procs on flasks — and flasks are what raiders actually buy every week. If you already farm herbs or buy them smartly on weekends, Flask of Blinding Light and Relentless Assault brewed on proc margins clear hundreds of gold weekly on a raiding realm. This spec rewards volume and market timing; it is the best choice if you enjoy playing the auction house.
Potion Master: the niche pick
Potion procs are volume-friendly — Super Healing and Super Mana Potions move constantly — but margins per unit are thin and the market is crowded because leveling alchemists dump stock. Viable, rarely optimal.
The practical verdict
- One character, minimal time: Transmute Master, never skip the cooldown.
- Active seller with herb supply: Elixir Master on raid-night listings.
- Multiple alts: transmute army, one Elixir main.
Whichever you pick, alchemy is a supplement, not a sprint — the cooldown drip is real money but slow money. If a purchase deadline looms, the transmute schedule will not bend for you; plan the gap accordingly, farm it or buy it, and keep the cooldown ticking either way.