The difference between Sage 100 Subscription vs Perpetual License

What’s the Difference?

Things have changed quite a bit since the subscription license option was introduced a few years ago. Today, the difference in product features and capabilities between a “classic” Sage 100 perpetual license versus a subscription license has widened. Here’s a closer look the changes.

The Basics

Before exploring the difference in features and modules, let’s look at some key aspects of a subscription license.

First, some people think that with a subscription, all of your data has to be in the cloud. So, it’s worth pointing out that subscription license holders can store data on premises, but also have the option of hosting on Microsoft Azure or a cloud provider of your choice.

Second, some customers think they’ll lose control over the timing of upgrades. However, Sage realizes that some customers need more time (i.e. customizations, add-ons) so they provide you 12 months after a new release to choose when to update.

Difference in Newest Features

Here’s a summary of newer features released in 2020 that are available in Sage 100 subscription, but not perpetual:

• Purchase Order - Apply multiple purchase orders to one receipt, invoice, or return, for the same vendor.
• Accounts Payable - Reverse an entire check run if a batch needs to be reversed (previously one check at a time).
• Lot/Serial Tracking - more advanced and detailed options for traceability and tracking expiration dates.
• Bank Reconciliation - connect directly to electronic bank feeds and automatically reconcile transactions.

Difference in Modules and Bundles

In addition to detailed features, a few modules and add-on bundles are available in Sage 100 subscription, but are not found in the perpetual license option as follows:

• Sage Operations Management
• Sage AP Automation
• Mobile Scanning and Multi-bin Warehousing
• Sage Budgeting and Planning
• Sage Contact (Office 365/Outlook Integration)
• More …

The Future is Sage 100 Subscription

While Sage remains committed to supporting customers on a perpetual license, the reality is that a lion’s share of new features and technological advancements will be directed at the Sage 100 subscription product going forward. In short, the functional gap between the two will continue to grow.

Contact us if you have questions about migrating to a subscription license or to request a copy of a more complete and detailed “differences” guide.