SOFTWARE SUBSCRIPTION OVERLOAD: WHICH SERVICES ARE WORTH PAYING FOR?

YOU CAN TRY TO GO FREE ON EVERYTHING, BUT YOU CAN MISS OUT ON SOME VITAL FEATURES THAT WAY.

- ALAINA YEE

I used to pay nothing for the software services I rely on—email, password manager, cloud storage, and more. And those I did need upgraded features for, I could pay once and be set for awhile. But the bar for privacy and security has risen (an unfortunate side effect of modern tech life), and most companies have ditched one-and-done software licenses in favor of paid subscriptions. Weaving together a comprehensive set of basics can add up fast, especially given all the other subscriptions in our lives. The good news is, you don’t have to shell out cash for everything. Some free options cover enough to be more than adequate. The trick is knowing when to scrimp and when to splurge.

This guide will help you wrap your head around free versus premium considerations for the most significant tech subscription types you’re likely to use on a phone or computer—and maybe help you save some cash in the process. We didn’t wade into entertainment subscriptions (like Netflix or gaming) because that’s highly subjective. Let’s dig in!

EMAIL

So many people use a free email service that you’re probably wondering who bothers with a paid plan. Your typical Gmail or Outlook. com account still has a price, though—not only do you have to endure ads, but data about you is being gathered for use.

Paying for email keeps you from being the product and, depending on your chosen service, provides stronger security protocols and encryptions options, too. You also get a broader range of features included, like support for custom domains (fave. co/3v3KRDd) and masked email (fave. co/3aS7pzQ).