Difference between non-recurring subscription and "buy now"?

[sugeneris]

I've poked around the in-line documentation and tried some searching, but I can't find any real statement about these two. I can create a non-recurring "subscription" for 6mo, and also a "Buy Now" button for the same period, but there's no explanation as to why they're different things and what that might mean.

The only details I've been able to figure out are that

1. The buy now-type button doesn't seem to require a Paypal account during checkout.
2. The "subscription"-type buttons(both recurring and non-) will /always/ require a PP account.

But is there any further implication for the actual subscription itself?
Thanks for any info. The system's great, but there are so many possible options, it's taking me a bit to get familiar.

[sugeneris]

Hm. This PP documentation on recurring payments seems to suggest that setting up an account with them is not required. More digging to do, I guess.

[Jason Caldwell]

Excellent question. Thanks for asking.

But is there any further implication for the actual subscription itself?
Thanks for any info. The system's great, but there are so many possible options, it's taking me a bit to get familiar.

In your case, there really is NO difference. I would go with the "Buy Now" option so that you dodge the PayPal account *required* issue. The ONLY distinction between the two different methods, is that the "Subscription' option makes it possible for you to offer a free trial period, and the "Buy Now' method does not. If you're not going to offer a trial period, and the membership will only last for a fixed-term of 6 months, I would just go with the "Buy Now" method if I were you.

Here is an article that you may also find interesting:
viewtopic.php?f=4&t=418&p=2733&hilit=enhanced#p1688

[sugeneris]

Thanks, Jason.
This actually is perfect, as we'd like to be able to offer non-PP options. Client's fine with requiring for the on-going month-to-month choice.

[Jason Caldwell]

You are VERY welcome.
Thanks for reporting back.