Digital subscriptions: worth the money?

A monthly subscription looks cheap, but five forgotten ones add up to a big amount by year-end. This guide helps you pick the subscriptions you'll actually use.

1. Ask yourself 3 questions before subscribing

How often will I use it each week? If less than once, you probably don't need it.
Is there a free option that's enough? Many tools have a good free plan.
Does it save me time or make me money? Those are the easiest subscriptions to justify.

2. The most useful types of subscription

Type	Who it suits	Tip
Cloud storage	People with lots of photos and files	Pick the service tied to your phone for automatic backup
Design tools	Small businesses and content creators	Try the free plan first and upgrade when needed
AI tools	Writing, research and daily work	Subscribe to one tool you use daily instead of several
Learning platforms and courses	Building skills and career growth	Annual is cheaper if you're committed; otherwise buy just the course you need
Audiobooks and e-books	Reading while driving or exercising	Check there's enough content in your language before subscribing

3. How to avoid forgotten subscriptions

When you start a free trial, set a reminder two days before it ends.
Review your subscriptions in your phone's app store settings once a month.
Paying yearly is cheaper — but only for a subscription you've used for at least two months in a row.

Digital products on Amazon

Amazon.sa offers gift cards, digital subscriptions and computer software:

Digital cards and subscriptions on Amazon.sa
Computer software

Detailed guides to design tools, AI tools and learning platforms are coming soon.