When Adobe’s new subscription service model for CS6 was first announced, I didn’t like it very much.
“I want to own the software,” I thought.
I’ve thought more about it and have completely reconsidered.
Here’s why Adobe’s new Creative Cloud subscription service is awesome:
1. Cash Flow
Let’s face it, the Adobe’s Master Suite will cost you an arm and a leg. $2,600 is a hunk of change, especially for a small to mid-sized church or freelancer. That’s nothing to take lightly. The Creative Cloud subscription will cost $49.99 per month. It would take over four years at that subscription rate to reach that $2,600 mark. If you consider that Adobe releases updates about every 18 months, you’ll only spend $900. A fraction of the cost.
2. Ownership Isn’t Forever
“But I want to own it,” seemed like an argument, but it really isn’t. Software ownership is relative. Eventually, you’re computer hardware will outpace your software and you won’t be able to install it. Moreover, if you’re serious about creating digital media, you don’t want outdated tools. If you can’t justify the monthly expense for Adobe’s tools, perhaps you should consider a toned down version. Instead of using Photoshop, for instance, try an app like Pixelmator, Acorn or others.
3. Creative Cloud Perks
Adobe’s Creative Cloud isn’t just about the subscription. There are some perks to it, as well:
- 3 qualifying Adobe touch apps.
- 20GB of cloud-based storage.
- 5 hosted sites through Business Catalyst.
- Typekit fonts for an unlimited number of sites.
Conclusion
After seeing the Creative Cloud fleshed-out, it looks like a really good option for just about anyone. There are hardly any drawbacks and the perks are awesome.
When I’m ready to make a jump to the newest suite of Adobe products, I’ll undoubtably be using Adobe’s Creative Cloud.
How about you?
If you’re using it now, how do you like it?
Thoughts?
Ryan Card says
I have been on a 30-day trial of Creative Cloud for the last week or so. I’m more than likely going to go this route this time. I am due to upgrade my apps and this seems to make the most sense based on the sheer volume of products you receive for your subscription rate.
I spend most of my time in Photoshop, but I would love to add some of the other apps to my workflow.
The Adobe Type kit also really interests me. I love their fonts. I am using my two free fonts on my blog right now. It’s always nice to have choices!
I know Photoshop (not the extended version) is available as well on a subscription for $20 per month.
But its the fact that you get so much more that may force me to spend the extra $30.
Thanks for this post! Spending $50 per month on anything isn’t a easy commitment when you have a mortgage, phone bills, car payments and so on. But all your points are valid and help me justify a the purchase a little more.
Eric Dye says
Thanks for the feedback, Ryan!
It’s good to hear the Adobe Type kit is as awesome as I’m hoping it will be!
Dustin W. Stout says
I hadn’t looked into this yet… I’m glad you wrote this Eric! I had no idea it offered so much!
Eric Dye says
Sweet! 😀