Custom software or a subscription?
A subscription costs little to start and a custom build costs more up front. Put in your numbers to see which costs less over time, and when. For the questions beyond price, read custom or off-the-shelf.
The custom build costs $1,739 less over 3 years.
It catches up with the subscription in month 31 (year 3).
- Custom build
- $15,400
- Subscription
- $17,139
Point at the chart, or focus it and use the arrow keys, to see any month.
Show the yearly totals
| End of | Custom build | Subscription | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $11,800 | $5,900 | Subscription $5,900 less |
| Year 2 | $13,600 | $11,444 | Subscription $2,156 less |
| Year 3 | $15,400 | $17,139 | Custom $1,739 less |
Assumes the custom build fits your work, so there is no time spent working around it, and that the subscription price rises once a year. Price is one part of the decision: a custom build is yours to change, and a subscription is someone else's to change.