Setapp Review: The Best Mac App Subscription?

Owning vs. Subscribing to Software – My Take on Setapp & Lifetime Licenses

I’ve always been a fan of lifetime deals. Pay once, and the app is yours forever. But here’s the catch: many “lifetime” licenses quietly come with a yearly update cap. After that, you’re stuck renewing. It feels like playing 3D chess with pricing models.

As much as I dislike subscriptions, I get it—developers need to cover hosting, support, updates, and keep teams running. That’s where Setapp caught my attention. Instead of juggling multiple subscriptions or confusing “lifetime + yearly updates,” you pay one yearly fee and unlock access to a big library of apps.

For me, the math was simple:
• CleanShot X renewal = $19/year
• Paste renewal = $29.99/year
That’s nearly $50 already. For just $59 more, Setapp gives me those apps plus heavy hitters like Craft and Ulysses.

Of course, nothing’s perfect. Apps can leave Setapp, or Setapp itself might raise prices. But the convenience and variety make it worth considering—especially if you’re tired of nickel-and-diming update fees.

So here’s the big question: would you rather own your apps (with update traps) or subscribe for a bundle that grows with you? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your perspective.

Timestamps:
0:00 – Lifetime licenses vs. update fees
0:44 – Setapp explained
3:00 – My cost breakdown (CleanShot X + Paste)
4:00 – Final thoughts

Affiliate Links

Great for taking notes of my thoughts
https://dub.sh/otter-referral

Great discounts for your company
https://dub.sh/join-secret

In Australia
Best mobile plan
https://dub.sh/mfelix

🔔 Subscribe to follow the journey: https://dub.sh/askPedroSubscribe
🌍 Explore my projects: https://dub.sh/mooxed.com
👔 Connect on LinkedIn: https://dub.sh/linkedin-pedropini