In Logos 7, base packages come in two sections: the library (which is all the books), and the feature set (which is all the datasets and features). You can get the features in two ways: either as an outright purchase, or as an annual rental through Logos Now. Here are what I see as the pros and cons of Now Membership:
Pros:
- Logos Now not only gives you all the features of Logos 7, but every six weeks you'll also get new features or datasets, throughout the life of your subscription.
- Logos Now gives you access to some tools that aren't available to purchase, such as Bible Browser and the Logos web app.
- Logos Now means a lower upfront cost. Members save money in two ways: (1) They don't need to buy the feature set; (2) they get an additional 10% discount on library-only purchases. A Logos Now member buying a Library for the first time will save $449.99 compared to a non-member buying a Library+Feature Set ($149.99 for Starter).*
- Logos Now gives you some additional benefits such as more media, occasional discounts and monthly resource previews.
Cons:
- If you ever stop subscribing, you'll lose access to nearly all of Logos' best features (although you'll still be able to read and search your books).
- The resale value of your library will be lower if you don't own a Feature Set.
Recommendation:
- If you're buying new, you're probably better off buying Logos Now, and not the feature set, even if you don't like the idea of renting. The $449.99 you'd save will pay for four and a half years of Logos Now. If you receive one improvement every six weeks, you'll get 39 improvements by the time you reach break-even point. If you like the sound of that, buy Logos Now. If you'd prefer no future financial commitment even if that means missing out on future developments, buy the Feature Set.
- If you're upgrading, particularly from Logos 6, the savings are reduced, so the decision is more difficult. Make sure you get a sales rep to give you quotation for the costs for both options, so you can work out the value for yourself — then go with your instincts (if you must own, go for the Feature Set; if you want to spread the cost or you want future improvements, go for Logos Now).
A note for those committed to purchasing:
- Normally, if you're going to buy the Feature Set and the Library, there's no financial gain in also joining Logos Now. However, during Special Offers it might be cheaper to buy Logos Now membership and a Feature Set than it is to buy the Feature Set without Now membership. With the current sale, that's true for new packages from Diamond upwards (additional savings range from $82 for Diamond to $150 for Collectors).
* At the time of writing there are additional discounts, so the range of savings varies from $142.24 for Starter to $922.49 for Collectors. Those receiving academic discounts will see savings ranging from $78.62 to $773.99.
