Here’s How I Escaped Adobe’s Nightmare Subscription Model

These alternative tools are not just subscription-free. They’re better.

Pixelmator

An old TV remote with way too many buttons.

That’s how I feel about most Adobe tools.

Sure, Adobe is powerful. But it’s also overwhelming and — let’s face it — designed for people who thrive in chaos. That’s not me.

I’m a minimalist. I like tools that are sleek, intuitive, and effortless. I want software that feels like second nature — like it was made for me. Something where every button has a purpose, every feature feels intentional.

And I don’t want to pay for it forever. Subscriptions make me feel trapped, like I’m renting creativity instead of owning it.

So, I quit Adobe. For good.

And here’s how I did it — with tools that didn’t just replace Adobe but made my work faster, simpler, and more enjoyable.

My Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign alternative: Pixelmator Pro

Pixelmator