Using Premium Themes and Addons on Open Source Platforms

Currently, I don't own any forum on open source platforms but in the past I have used multiple platforms including SMF, phpBB, and MyBB. I never used any premium themes and addons on my forums on open source platforms. I used free themes and addons. Have you ever used premium themes and add ons with your open source platforms? Did you like them?

Themes and addons is a rabbit hole. Once you start buying them, you won't stop easily. I remember telling myself “just one premium theme” then next thing I’m testing three plugins for a design optimization. Fancy designs are nice but if the forum loads slowly, people will bounce immediately.

Bright said:

Themes and addons is a rabbit hole. Once you start buying them, you won't stop easily. I remember telling myself “just one premium theme” then next thing I’m testing three plugins for a design optimization. Fancy designs are nice but if the forum loads slowly, people will bounce immediately.

You make an interesting point, I never thought that way. I believe a lot of people settle with one theme after checking multiple demos, and they don't frequently change themes. However, when it comes to using add ons a lot of people continue to purchase them for added features and even customization.

There's a principle which I work with. If I'm using a free forum software, I don't have any business with using premium themes and add ons because it doesn't align for me.