No. Sublime Merge is free to try indefinitely , but it will occasionally show a nag bar reminding you to purchase. All features work during the trial. You only need a license key to remove the nag message. So you can use it for weeks without a key while you decide.
Sublime Merge may be downloaded and evaluated for free, however a license must be purchased for continued use. Sublime HQ "License Upgrade Required" message makes me want to puke sublime merge license key link
: Navigate to the official buy page to select between a personal or business license. You only need a license key to remove the nag message
: You can also purchase a bundled license for both Sublime Text and Sublime Merge for better value. Sublime HQ "License Upgrade Required" message makes me
; after this period, you can continue using any version released during those 3 years indefinitely Sublime Forum Business License ($75/year): These are sold as annual subscriptions per user Sublime HQ
Key features include:
No. It checks during initial activation and occasionally afterward. If you are offline for months, it will continue working. But if you reinstall or change hardware, you may need to re-enter the key with an internet connection.