Setapp Review

Setapp, from MacPaw, is a subscription that gives access to a catalogue of Mac apps. Whether it saves money depends on how many of those apps you would otherwise buy. This page covers the idea, the maths and who it suits. It is research-based, with no ratings and no first-person impressions.

Product overview#

How a bundle works#

1. 1Subscribe

   One recurring fee.

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2. 2Pick apps

   Install any from the catalogue.

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3. 3Updates

   Apps update automatically.

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4. 4Cancel

   You lose access to the apps.

Will it pay off for you?#

Count the apps you would actually use, then enter the real prices.

Bundle or buy? Enter your own numbers

Subscription per month

One-time price

Years you will use it

Enter both prices in the same currency. Nothing is sent anywhere.

Before you subscribe

• List the apps you would use weekly Do not count apps you merely might try.
• Check each one is in the catalogue today
• Add up what you would pay to own them
• Compare with the monthly fee over a year or two
• Note what you lose when you cancel Files stay yours. The apps do not.

Is it for you?#

• Likely a fit: you use three or more included apps, enjoy trying new utilities and are happy to rent software.
• Likely not: you use one or two paid apps, prefer to own what you use, or settle on a few tools. Buying directly or using free apps costs less over time. See free vs paid Mac apps.

Pros and cons#

From the product profile. We confirm them after testing.

Categories to browse#

Check the catalogue for the jobs you care about, such as cleaning or clipboard managers, since coverage changes.

Pricing#

The profile lists tiered monthly plans. Verified, dated prices appear in the product panel once we check the vendor.

What we will test#

1. Sign-up, trial terms and how cancellation works.
2. How installing, updating and removing catalogue apps behaves.
3. Whether the apps we name elsewhere on this site are included today.

Frequently asked questions#

Is Setapp worth it?#

It is worth it when the apps you would buy anyway are in the catalogue. Use the calculator above.

What happens to my files if I cancel?#

Your files remain. The apps stop working until you subscribe again.

Is Setapp safe?#

MacPaw is an established developer. As with any subscription, read the terms. See how to check whether an app is safe.