The Return to Ownership: Why Perpetual CAD Licencing is Making a Comeback

At a time when much of the CAD industry is shifting to subscription-only licencing, we can see a clear and growing movement in the opposite direction — back toward ownership and long-term value.

This trend is more than just talk. In August, we recorded our highest-ever month for new licence sales of Alibre in the UK, despite the summer holiday period

We believe this result is a strong signal from engineers, designers, manufacturers and model makers who are increasingly frustrated with rising costs and limitations of subscription models.

We understand that some customers may choose to remain on a subscription model because they are locked into software that controls their legacy data they have no choice and must accept the yearly subscription!

Perpetual licences offer control, cost predictability, and true software ownership

Subscription software lock their customers into ongoing payments and restrict access if subscription stops

Advantages of Perpetual Licensing Ownership

You pay once and the software is yours — forever. Even if you stop paying for updates, you still have access to your tools.

Lower Total Cost

Perpetual licences are significantly more cost-effective over time. Optional maintenance keeps you current, but you are never forced to upgrade.

Predictable Budgeting

Avoid sudden price increases or changing terms.

Offline-Ready

Perpetual software can run without constant internet access — ideal for secure environments or offline workflows.

Ideal for Long-Term Projects

Maintain older versions for project compatibility. You're not forced to upgrade every year just to keep access.

 An example of a subscription model of £3000 PA v Alibre Perpetual licence

5-Year Cost Comparison: Subscription vs Perpetual Licensing

Licensing Model	Year 1	Year 2	Year 3	Year 4	Year 5	Total (5 Years)
Subscription License (£3,000/year)	£3,000	£3,000	£3,000	£3,000	£3,000	£15,000
Alibre Perpetual + Optional Upgrades	£1,850	£420	£420	£420	£420	£3,530

Savings over 5 years: £11,470 for one licence!

Even with yearly maintenance (which is optional), Alibre's perpetual model is more than 75% less over 5 years compared to £3000 subscription-only.

Alibre is not the only software on offer from Mintronics as perpetual licence,

Look to 4M 2D CAD and architectural CAD

QuickSurface reverse engineering software