AppSumo Guide: Worth It?

AppSumo sells lifetime deals on software. The prices are incredible. The question is whether the products survive long enough to justify the gamble.

How AppSumo Works

Vendors offer lifetime access at steep discounts (often 90%+ off regular pricing) in exchange for cash upfront and exposure. You get a deal; they get customers and capital.

The Success Stories

Some AppSumo products become category leaders. ClickUp, Notion, and others launched or grew through AppSumo deals. Early buyers got lifetime access to now-valuable tools.

The Failures

Many AppSumo products shut down within 2-3 years. The lifetime deal economics often don't work—companies take the cash but can't sustain development. Your "lifetime" becomes 18 months.

Due Diligence

Check the company's funding and revenue. Look for products already being used, not just launching. Read reviews carefully—AppSumo reviews skew positive (buyers justifying their purchase). Only buy what you'll use immediately, not "someday" tools.