Key benefits of using Setapp: an app explorer's review

7 min read

As a tech writer and productivity enthusiast, I'm obsessed with apps. I enjoy discovering new tools to simplify my work with writing and editing content, taking screenshots, converting files, and maximizing the potential of my Mac. 

But my “hobby” was costing me close to a hundred dollars each month to test apps from the Mac App Store. I was buying premium subscriptions to try full functionality and then discovered it wasn't worth it. In such a huge selection, most of them are about the same, and full of advertising inside, which disturbs the work and is frankly annoying.

Since I’m working at Setapp, I use it daily (no one’s forcing me to do it, honestly).  It genuinely helps me in my workflow.  No more wasting time choosing the tool that would best solve my task — I got access to dozens of handpicked apps. Why do I consider it a great solution for like-minded tech enthusiasts crazy about productivity? Well, here I'll share my experience and highlight the key benefits of Setapp. 

Setapp benefits: a closer look

Setapp combines handpicked tools for productivity, optimization, creativity, work, and development. Unlike the Mac App Store, where you can get lost in hundreds of apps with similar functionality, Setapp benefits from a comprehensive app selection process. 

To get into the Setapp collection, an app must meet the following requirements:

  • Share access to all premium features 
  • App functionality must be appropriately tested ('demo', 'trial,' or 'test' versions are not allowed)
  • No undocumented or hidden features
  • No ads, promo, or paid features
  • App must be notarized by Apple
  • App functionality is different from those already hosted on Setapp
  • App must pass a security check

Check out more info about how Setapp’s team picks the best apps for you and ensures every tool meets the highest quality standards for a seamless Mac experience.

Here's what I like most about Setapp:

What I was looking for

How Setapp delivered

What I like

Cost control

Fixed subscription price starting from $9.99

I've saved hundreds of dollars on subscriptions.

App discovery

Curated collection

No more endless App Store browsing. I got an app for each of my tasks.

Work efficiency

AI-assistant

When I need a specific tool, I just open Setapp and start using it – no purchase decisions, no waiting.

Peace of mind

Quality assurance

I used to worry about downloading sketchy apps. All the stuff I install now I trust because it's pre-vetted.

No subscription fatigue

Single payment

Replaced 8+ individual app subscriptions with one. No more tracking multiple renewal dates or surprise charges.

Cross-device work

iOS & Mac sync

I start work on my Mac and continue on my iPhone seamlessly. 

Get updates automatically

Automatic management

No need to spend hours managing updates across dozens of apps. I saved a lot of time.

Software exploration

Testing without commitment

I found amazing tools I wouldn't have risked buying individually.

Unlike Setapp's alternatives, you don't have to pay for extra features or hassle with app updates. I simply stopped wasting time on tedious tasks by optimizing my work routine. I don't have to navigate through countless similar apps, worry about extra fees, or spend time on manual updates. Furthermore, with Setapp's strict selection process and security testing, I can be confident in my software choices – something I can't say about many other platforms where app quality varies greatly. 

Let's take a look at each of Setapp's benefits.

Find the right apps faster

Previously, I used to google for apps for my tasks, spend hours reading forums or social networks to find the most relevant one for me. Since I switched to Setapp, it takes seconds. 

Whether you need to write a paper or thesis, design a presentation, convert a file, clean your Mac, or control the time for an assigned to-do — Setapp has an app for that. Just write a task and get a list of tools suggested by Setapp search. 

Find apps at Setapp

Only worthy, hand-picked tools 

Each app passes thorough testing and verification before being added to the Setapp collection. So, I don’t have to worry about its quality, security, and functionality. 

There are a bunch of apps to choose from –– and just trust me, that's more than enough to cover your daily needs. It may not sound like a large collection, but the Setapp benefit is that it's intentionally curated to include only the best tools in each category. This means less time reading reviews and more time actually getting work done.

Here are some of my favorite apps on Setapp:

  • CleanMyMac — my number one helper in decluttering my Mac and speeding it up
  • CleanMyPhone — my go-to app to optimize iPhone’s space after a bunch of screenshots and dozens of identical photos
  • Bartender — for customizing my macOS menu bar
  • Ulysses — helps me to write without distractions, checks grammar and provides stunning exports
  • Session — blocks distractions and helps me to focus on tasks
  • CleanShot X — for capturing Mac’s screen without desktop icons
  • MindNote— structures ideas in my head creating a lovely canvas
  • Endurance — makes my laptop battery last longer

Wondering what other tasks the apps in Setapp solve? Check here!

Hassle-free user experience

While testing other platforms with macOS/iOS applications, I faced installation issues. Sometimes I thought it was impossible for a simple user with no technical background to install and use some of the tools. With Setapp, the installation is literally one click away. It took about 10 minutes from the time I started registration to using the first Setapp app, and I am amazed by the user-friendly experience.

Immediately after installation, the user has access to all features and apps. Another significant Setapp benefit –– no ads or in-app purchases.  Setapp also takes care of all app updates. I don't have to manually check and install new versions. 

Single subscription without hidden fees

One of my favorite Setapp benefits is its price. For $9.99, I get all premium app versions, with no ads or in-app purchases. Considering that some apps are more expensive on their own, this is a good deal. 

Setapp has several pricing options for different needs:

Setapp Price

Final thoughts on Setapp benefits

With its easy installation and many useful apps, Setapp is worth a try for anyone looking to get more done in time. Whether you're a student, programmer, freelancer or any other professional, there's definitely your favorites among dozens of apps. Try the 7-day trialand see how your Mac experience gets better with Setapp.

Setapp benefits


FAQ

Is a Setapp subscription worth it?

Setapp offers over dozens of apps in a single subscription that starts at $9.99, making it a good deal for users. You can open premium versions of multiple apps and find tools to solve challenges that you never even thought of.

How to get Setapp for free?

Try Setapp's 7-day trial to test the functionality of the platform and apps. Install as many apps as you want to find real tech gems for your work and life routine.

What is Setapp used for?

Setapp is a platform with dozens of apps on macOS/iOS available at a single subscription price. Users get tools for productivity, Mac optimization, creativity, AI, and development. Try it for free and experience Setapp benefits!

Can Setapp be trusted?

A special review team checks every app for quality, functionality, and security before it's added to Setapp. Therefore, users can be sure that Setapp is a safe platform.

250+ apps for all your daily tasks.

Sign up to Setapp and try them for free.

Security-tested