Is Metashape a One-Time Purchase? Understanding Agisoft’s Licensing Model
News

Is Metashape a One-Time Purchase? Understanding Agisoft’s Licensing Model

Posted on by admin

Agisoft Metashape is one of the most trusted photogrammetry tools on the market, used by professionals in surveying, drone mapping, archaeology, and 3D reconstruction. But many users ask the same question before buying: Is Metashape a one-time purchase? This article answers that question in full and explains what you need to know about Metashape’s licensing, updates, and long-term costs.

Is Metashape a One-Time Purchase?

Yes, Metashape is sold as a perpetual license. That means once you purchase it, you can use it indefinitely without any recurring subscription fees. This is true for both the Standard Edition and the Professional Edition.

Unlike many modern software companies that have moved to a monthly or yearly subscription model, Agisoft still provides a classic, straightforward one-time purchase model. This makes it especially attractive to professionals and institutions who want to avoid long-term licensing costs.

Which Metashape Licenses Are Available?

There are two main types of licenses:

1. Metashape Standard Edition

  • Price: Approx. $179 USD
  • License type: One-time purchase, node-locked
  • Use case: Hobbyists, educators, 3D artists
  • Key features: Image-based 3D modeling, textured mesh, basic orthophoto tools

2. Metashape Professional Edition

  • Price: Approx. $3,499 USD
  • License type: One-time purchase, node-locked or floating
  • Use case: Surveying, engineering, GIS, drone mapping, research
  • Key features: GCPs, georeferencing, DEMs, orthomosaics, Python scripting, network processing

Both editions come with a perpetual license, meaning you only pay once and the software is yours to use permanently.

Does the One-Time Purchase Include Updates?

Here’s where it gets interesting. Agisoft offers free minor updates (within the same major version). For example, if you buy version 2.x, you’ll receive all updates up to 2.99 for free.

However, major upgrades (e.g., from version 2.x to 3.x) may require an upgrade fee, which is usually a fraction of the original license cost. That said, Agisoft tends to support their major versions for many years, making it a cost-effective choice even over the long run.

Are There Any Hidden Fees or Subscriptions?

No. Once you purchase a license, there are no mandatory subscriptions, no activation fees, and no cloud usage fees. Optional services like floating licenses or maintenance extensions are available for enterprise customers but are not required for most users.

Node-Locked vs Floating Licenses

Metashape licenses are offered in two deployment modes:

  • Node-Locked License: Tied to a single computer. Ideal for individual users or small teams. Can be transferred manually if hardware changes.
  • Floating License: Allows multiple users on a network to share a limited number of licenses. Ideal for companies and universities. Costs more but offers flexibility.

Both types are still one-time purchases; the difference is in how they are deployed and managed.

Can I Use My License on More Than One Device?

No, node-locked licenses are limited to one computer at a time. If you want to switch to another machine, you’ll need to deactivate the license on the old device first using Agisoft’s license transfer process.

How to Buy Metashape

You can buy Agisoft Metashape licenses directly from the www.agisoftmetashape.com. Payment is typically a one-time transaction via credit card or bank transfer. Resellers may also offer localized pricing, academic discounts, and invoice-based payments.

Is It Still Worth It in 2025?

With many software companies moving to subscription-only models, Agisoft’s one-time licensing remains a strong selling point. Especially for professionals and institutions with long-term projects, owning the software outright means no surprise costs and complete project autonomy.

Users still benefit from years of support, updates, and stability without worrying about monthly payments or data lock-ins. Whether you’re a drone mapper, a researcher, or a photogrammetry enthusiast, Metashape’s licensing is fair and transparent.

Conclusion: One-Time Purchase, Long-Term Value

To wrap it up: Yes, Agisoft Metashape is a one-time purchase. There are no recurring fees, no subscriptions, and no cloud lock-ins. You pay once, own it forever, and get access to a mature and reliable photogrammetry engine used by thousands of professionals worldwide.

If you’re looking for a long-term photogrammetry solution without being tied to a subscription, Metashape remains one of the most attractive choices in 2025.

Note: Prices and version details are current as of mid-2025 and may change. Always check the official website for the latest licensing terms.