Are lifetime software deals worth it?

Lifetime deals (LTDs) give you permanent access to a SaaS product for a single payment. Whether one is worth buying depends on the product and the company behind it.

The appeal

• one payment instead of a monthly subscription
• "unlimited" access to features
• a price well below what the subscription would cost over a few years
• the feeling of owning the software

The reality

1. "Lifetime" means the product's lifetime, not yours. If the company shuts down, and many SaaS companies do, the deal is worthless.
2. Future features are often left out. You get the current version, and new features need a paid upgrade.
3. Support can get worse. LTD users are often a lower priority than paying subscribers.
4. Usage is often capped. Limits on API calls, storage or users aren't always disclosed clearly.
5. The business model is fragile. SaaS companies need recurring revenue to survive, and selling LTDs can be a sign of cash-flow problems.

How to judge an LTD on EPICSWP

Check the product's history:

• How long has it been around? Under a year is a high risk.
• Does it have an active user base?
• Is it still being maintained?

Check the terms:

• What exactly is included "for life"?
• Are there usage limits?
• What happens if the product is sold or shut down?
• Is the source code available?

Weigh up the value:

• Compare the price with two or three years of the equivalent subscription.
• Allow for the risk of the product disappearing.
• Add the 6% escrow fee.

Using escrow

If you decide to buy an LTD on EPICSWP:

• Pay through escrow, so the money is held until you confirm.
• Get every promise written in the deal chat, where a moderator can see it if there's a dispute.
• Check the product works as advertised before you confirm receipt.
• Download any source code or backups that come with it.

If the product doesn't match the listing, or the terms differ from what was advertised, open a dispute before you confirm.

The verdict

LTDs can be worth it for established products with a clear track record. For new or struggling products, the risk usually outweighs the saving.