The Myth of Software-as-a-Service: Are Monthly Apps Worth It?

jennifercorkum
Sep 22
4 min read

In the past decade, software has shifted from one-time purchases to subscription-based models. What once cost $50–$200 as a single payment now costs $10–$30 every month — forever. On the surface, this “Software-as-a-Service” (SaaS) model seems convenient: automatic updates, cloud access, and flexibility. But from a minimalist finance perspective, software subscriptions are another financial trap disguised as progress.

Let’s break down the hidden costs, the alternatives, and how you can simplify your digital life while keeping your money working for you.

The Rise of Monthly Software Fees

Tech companies love SaaS because it guarantees recurring revenue. Instead of selling you a product once, they’ve found a way to charge you indefinitely. Think about:

Creative software: Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere) costs $59.99/month. That’s over $700 per year.
Productivity tools: Microsoft 365 is $69.99/year for personal use — more if you want family plans.
Niche apps: Note-taking apps, to-do lists, photo editors, and fitness apps increasingly push subscriptions instead of one-time fees.

This model works brilliantly — for the companies. For consumers, it’s a quiet siphoning of wealth.

The Long-Term Cost of SaaS

At first, $9.99 or $19.99/month doesn’t feel like much. But multiply that out:

A $29/month subscription = $348 per year.
Over 5 years = $1,740.
Over 10 years = $3,480.

Compare that to a one-time $100–$300 software purchase. Even factoring in occasional upgrades, you still come out far ahead.

From a minimalist finance standpoint, SaaS models are designed to keep you paying more for the same value — forever.

The Minimalist Problem: Digital Clutter

It’s not just about money. Every app you subscribe to adds another layer of digital clutter:

Multiple logins and passwords.
Constant updates and notifications.
Decision fatigue from juggling too many tools.
A creeping sense that you “need” all these apps to be productive.

Minimalism is about removing the excess so you can focus on what matters. Subscribing to five different productivity apps isn’t simplifying your life — it’s complicating it.

Evaluating Whether Software is Worth the Fee

Before paying for an app or software subscription, run it through this minimalist filter:

Is it essential for my work or life?If your income relies on it (e.g., Photoshop for a graphic designer), it may be justified.
Is there a free or one-time alternative?
- Instead of Microsoft 365, use Google Docs (free).
- Instead of Photoshop, try GIMP or Affinity Photo (one-time purchase).
- Instead of expensive project management apps, use a simple calendar or Trello (free version).
Would I pay the annual cost upfront?If not, the subscription is probably not worth it.
Am I using all the features?If you only use 10% of the software’s capabilities, chances are you’re overpaying.

Minimalist Alternatives to SaaS

Here are some minimalist-friendly approaches to software:

Free & Open Source: Programs like LibreOffice, GIMP, Blender, and Audacity are powerful — and cost nothing.
One-Time Purchases: Affinity’s design suite costs around $65 per app — with no recurring fees.
Freemium Tools: Many apps offer free tiers that are more than enough for everyday use.
The “Default” Method: Before downloading another app, ask if your computer or phone already has a built-in tool that works.

These alternatives reduce both financial drain and digital clutter.

The Minimalist Finance Approach to Apps

Minimalist finance isn’t about avoiding all software — it’s about being intentional. Here’s how to keep your digital life lean:

1. Audit Your App Spending

Go through your credit card statements and app store purchases. List every subscription. You’ll likely find duplicates or forgotten apps.

2. Unsubscribe Ruthlessly

If an app isn’t absolutely essential, cancel it. Wait a month. If you don’t miss it, you didn’t need it.

3. Batch Your Tools

Consolidate multiple apps into fewer, multifunctional ones. For example, use Notion for notes, tasks, and databases instead of three separate apps.

4. Invest the Savings

Redirect money from canceled software subscriptions into long-term investments. A $30/month canceled app could become thousands of dollars invested over time.

Software FOMO and the Minimalist Mindset

Many people keep subscriptions out of fear of missing out (FOMO). “What if I need Photoshop one day?” or “What if I want access to that premium feature?”

Minimalist finance flips that thinking: instead of paying for “just in case,” pay only for “just in time.” If you actually need the tool later, you can subscribe temporarily — but don’t pay for tools you aren’t actively using.

Final Thoughts: Reclaiming Control from SaaS

Software subscriptions promise convenience, but often deliver dependency and financial leakage. From a minimalist finance perspective, SaaS is less about innovation and more about trapping you in a cycle of endless payments.

The solution is simple:

Audit your subscriptions.
Replace recurring fees with free or one-time alternatives.
Keep only the software that directly contributes to your work or happiness.

Minimalism is about intentional living. By unsubscribing from unnecessary apps, you’re not just saving money — you’re buying back your freedom, focus, and financial independence.