The concept that "all good software engineers are free" assumes that developers create value beyond their salary, but this perspective may not fully apply when evaluating developer tools. The costs of these tools can appear high initially, but focusing solely on upfront expenses misses the bigger picture. Weighing long-term productivity gains against short-term expenses reveals that developer tools help engineers deliver more business value and pay for themselves many times over as engineering teams scale. These tools also provide intangible benefits by reducing frustrations and stress, leading to happier and more engaged developers who deliver higher-quality work. Investing in developer tools can enhance performance, reduce attrition, and drive recruitment and retention, making it a competitive imperative for companies to optimize developer efficiency and stay on the cutting edge of productivity.