Movavi Knowledge Base — Subscription vs lifetime license: what’s the difference

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SUBSCRIPTION VS LIFETIME LICENSE: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE

Movavi offers two main license types: subscription and lifetime.
This article helps you compare them by access duration, updates, device use, and access to Effects.

Movavi subscription license

A subscription license gives you access to the software for as long as your subscription remains active.

Key points
Time-limited access
The license is valid only while the subscription is active.

All updates and new versions included
During the active subscription period, you receive:

all updates
all new versions
new features and improvements as they are released

Subscribers always have access to the most up-to-date version of the product.

After cancellation or expiration
If the subscription expires or is canceled:

access to paid features ends at the end of the current billing period
the program switches to trial or limited mode

Movavi lifetime license

A lifetime license provides permanent access to one specific version of the software.

Key points
No expiration
You can use the purchased version indefinitely.

Version is fixed
A lifetime license includes the version available at the moment of purchase.
New versions released after the purchase are not included.

Major version upgrades are not included
Lifetime licenses:

do not include updates for the purchased version
do not include upgrades to a new major version

All owners of an earlier lifetime license are offered a discounted subscription.
Your purchased version remains available.

No dependency on subscriptions
Your purchased version remains usable regardless of new releases or subscription changes.

Device usage and activation rules

One device at a time
By default, a Movavi license (both subscription and lifetime) is intended for use on one computer at a time.

Reinstalling or moving the software
You may reinstall the software on the same computer. If you need to move it to another device, contact us to transfer the license.

Using one license on multiple computers simultaneously
To use the software on several computers at the same time, you need:

the Shared Access service (for personal licenses)
additional licenses

Movavi Effects

Movavi Effects are licensed separately from the main video editing software.

Not included by default
Movavi Effects are not included in the Movavi Video Editor license by default.

Paid Effects
To use paid Effects (such as transitions, titles, stickers, and overlays), you need a separate Movavi Effects subscription.

Free Effects
Free Effects included with the program remain available without an Effects subscription.

Movavi Templates
Movavi Templates is another separate product for ready-made video projects and Blocks. A Movavi Effects subscription alone does not include the full Templates catalog.
Check which products are included in your offer.

Summary

Subscription license

Time-limited
Includes all updates and new versions
Always provides the latest available version

Lifetime license

One-time purchase
Fixed version
No updates or upgrades included

Both license types are valid and fully functional within their terms.
The key difference is whether you want ongoing updates or permanent access to a specific version.