Adobe After Effects Subscription Model: No Permanent Purchase Option

As of August 2023, Adobe After Effects is exclusively available through a subscription model via Adobe Creative Cloud. Adobe no longer offers a permanent one-time purchase license for the software. Users can choose between monthly or yearly subscription plans to gain access to the latest updates and features.

Current Subscription Plans

The current subscription plans for Adobe After Effects include the following:

Monthly Plan: Starting at $49.99 per month. This plan is ideal for users who want to try the software without a long-term commitment. Yearly Plan: A more cost-effective option for those who commit to a long-term usage. The yearly fee is typically lower, around $499.99, which breaks down to $41.66 per month.

Alternatives to Consider

While Adobe does not offer a permanent license for After Effects, there are a few alternatives users can explore:

Purchasing an Older Version

For those who are looking for a more permanent solution, older versions of Adobe After Effects (prior to the transition to the subscription model) are available for purchase on platforms like eBay. However, these versions do not include support for the latest features or updates. They may have been released up to several years ago, so the software might already be outdated.

Discounted Subscription Offers

Fortunately, if you are looking to start a subscription, there are options to save money. One such platform is Gamsgo. They have a special offer for Adobe Creative Cloud starting at $27.99 per month, which is quite affordable. Gamsgo allows you to add your existing account to an enterprise plan, providing you with access to all the apps and firefly credits. They also offer periodic discounts, such as the special discount code GIVEME5, which gets you 5% off any service. Remember to check their website for ongoing deals.

Evaluating the Impact of the Subscription Model

The shift to a subscription model means that users must continue to pay for the software indefinitely, unless they choose to purchase an older version. Adobe justifies this approach due to several factors:

Revenue Generation: The subscription model provides a steady revenue stream for Adobe, as users are locked into ongoing payments. Technological Advancement: Frequent updates and access to the latest features are essential in the rapidly evolving field of video editing. The subscription model ensures that users stay current with the latest technologies. Market Position: Adobe has a dominant market share and little competition, allowing them to dictate pricing and terms.

However, some users have reported issues with updates, such as losing certain feature compatibility. For example, an update to the premier version may break compatibility with specific features, as one user experienced when their audio import from video camera no longer worked.

Conclusion

For now, the only way to permanently own Adobe After Effects is to purchase an older version, which may not include the latest features. The subscription model provides ongoing access to updates and features, but it requires continuous payments. Users might want to consider the trade-offs between cost, features, and ongoing upgrades when deciding on their best course of action.