I have purchased only one magazine because it had software in it so I could have the patterns on my computer. I've gotten to where I can look at a photo and pretty much figure out how it's made, except for art quilts, which I would never attempt to copy anyway.
I would borrow from the library if I ever found one with a pattern I couldn't live without - and then I'd take it home and scan what I need into an electronic file. So much of it is available in non-paper form and I sure don't have time to browse like I used to.
I wouldn't subscribe.