Adobe Photoshop is still the standard when it comes to professional image editing. Years ago, Adobe has switched to a subscription model, but many users ask themselves: Can you buy Photoshop?

Buy Adobe Photoshop: This is the current state

Short answer: no, at least no current version. And even older versions are hardly available anywhere on the official road.

The last regular purchase version was Photoshop CS6, and at least came in 2012 on the market. The following year, Adobe converted almost all of its software to a subscription model, the so-called Adobe Creative Cloud, using Photoshop CC. Who wants to use a current version of Photoshop, this can no longer buy once and then use for life. Instead, the image editing program can only be used in the subscription process.

Photoshop is only available via subscription

© Adobe 2019

Adobe fully relies on his subscription model.

The subscription model has many advantages – especially for Adobe itself – but also some disadvantages. The first advantage is obvious: for a monthly fee, users always get the latest version of Photoshop, all software updates and new features are always delivered free domicile. This is comfortable, uncomplicated and simply practical. The medal, however, has a downside: You have to pay the subscription, of course, even if you do not use the new features and can do without them – you have virtually no choice. If you want to use a current Photoshop legally, there is no way around the Adobe Creative Cloud.

Basically, the single subscription with monthly 23.79 euros to book, including about 100 GB cloud storage space included. Basically, this choice only results in other programs from Adobe Sinn, but not if you are basically just Photoshop. Then the photography package for just under 12 euros per month is the better choice for you, which also includes Adobe Lightroom. Cloud storage is also included, but you have to be content with 20 GB of storage space.

If you do not want to pay monthly, you can pay the annual amount in advance. Either way, if you want to use Photoshop, you have to commit yourself for a whole year. Alternatively, Adobe offers a free seven-day trial period for the entire Creative Cloud.

Alternative: Less feature-rich Photoshop Elements

If you can do without professional features, you should take a look at Photoshop Elements.

Is there an alternative? Yes, Adobe Photoshop Elements. It is a much smaller version compared to the big brother, which should be sufficient for the vast majority of beginners. De Software allows you to design, edit and even manage digital image, which can also be easily shared. Automated options ensure easy access. Cost: once just under 100 euros.

Summary

• No, it is not possible to buy Photoshop as a full version
• Current Photoshop versions are offered by Adobe exclusively via subscription
• If you can do without many professional features, Photoshop Elements could be a suitable alternative