Adobe Creative Suite 6 (CS6) was released in 2012 and was the last perpetual version of the software before Adobe transitioned to a subscription-based model with Creative Cloud (CC). While CS6 was a popular and powerful suite of design tools, its viability as a long-term solution has diminished over time.
Last year, we stopped recommending CS6 as a good or viable option going forward, as it is simply not current or future-proof. Adobe has finally closed the last door on this, with the company discontinuing sales of CS6 entirely as of January 2017.
Compatibility Issues
One of the main concerns with using CS6 in 2024 is compatibility. As operating systems and hardware continue to evolve, older software like CS6 may encounter issues running on newer systems. This can lead to crashes, bugs, and other problems that can disrupt your workflow.
Additionally, without access to updates and bug fixes from Adobe, CS6 users may find themselves dealing with issues that have already been resolved in newer versions of the software. This can be frustrating and time-consuming, especially for those who rely on Adobe’s tools for their livelihood.
Lack of Support
Another factor to consider is the lack of support for CS6. Adobe has shifted its focus to Creative Cloud, and as a result, the company is no longer providing updates, bug fixes, or technical support for CS6. This means that if you encounter an issue with the software, you may be on your own when it comes to finding a solution.
Furthermore, as newer versions of operating systems are released, it’s possible that CS6 may become incompatible altogether, leaving users with no choice but to upgrade to a newer version of the software or switch to a different platform.
Subscription Benefits
While the subscription model of Creative Cloud may not appeal to everyone, it does offer some benefits that CS6 lacks. With a CC subscription, users have access to the latest versions of Adobe’s software, as well as regular updates and bug fixes. This ensures that they are always working with the most current and stable version of the tools they need.
Additionally, Creative Cloud offers a range of features and tools that were not available in CS6, such as cloud storage, collaboration features, and mobile apps. These can be valuable for those who need to work on the go or share their work with others.