It's also worth noting just how much other software & assets you get with the Octane subscription.
Right now it's Kitbash kits, World Creator, MOI3D, Embergen & there's lots more. No-one is going to need all of these, but I'd be surprised if anyone can't find a use for one of them. It makes it imo very competetive for the price compared to redshift.
I also agree with Zeden. As useless as it is for really rendering, Redshift CPU is useful to have because Junior artists can at least open scenes and see something of what the materials should look like, can design a few materials in a stripped back scene and can learn how Redshift works on a basic level.