CentOS Linux and CentOS Stream are not two versions of the same maintained distribution. CentOS Linux was a downstream rebuild of released Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL); its CentOS 7 and 8 update streams have ended. CentOS Stream is an active community distribution positioned just ahead of upcoming RHEL minor releases, with a different update cadence and role in development.
How do CentOS Linux and CentOS Stream relate to RHEL?
The key difference is where each project sits in the development cycle. CentOS Linux took released RHEL content and rebuilt it as a community distribution. CentOS Stream is the public development branch just ahead of upcoming RHEL minor releases. The CentOS Project calls it “the upstream, public development branch for RHEL” (CentOS Project comparison).
In practical terms, CentOS Linux historically let users follow a rebuild of RHEL after a release. Stream gives users and contributors an earlier view of code being developed for future RHEL minor releases. The CentOS Project describes Stream as a continuously delivered distribution that tracks just ahead of RHEL development, between Fedora Linux and RHEL (CentOS Stream).
What are the practical differences?
| Area | CentOS Linux (historical) | CentOS Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Position in RHEL cycle | Downstream rebuild of released RHEL content. | Public development branch ahead of upcoming RHEL minor releases. |
| Update cadence | Content arrived in larger minor-release batches, with smaller updates between them. | Content is published as it is ready rather than accumulated into the same kind of minor release. |
| Contribution path | Changes generally came through upstream projects and could take years to reach the rebuild. | Contributors can propose and test changes in the RHEL development process; the CentOS Project says this can shorten the path to weeks or days. |
| Current status | CentOS Linux 7 and 8 no longer receive updates. | Active, with lifecycle dates that vary by major version. |
| Support model | Community and third-party support context; no current CentOS Linux updates. | Community distribution, not the same commercial support arrangement as RHEL. |
Is CentOS Stream upstream or downstream of RHEL?
Stream is upstream of RHEL minor releases: its development content is positioned before the corresponding RHEL updates. It is not the same as Fedora, nor is it a rebuilt release of RHEL. This makes Stream useful to people who want to see and participate in work headed toward RHEL, but it is not simply a drop-in continuation of the old CentOS Linux model.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
CentOS documentation says Stream shares sources with RHEL and follows RHEL promises around API and ABI stability (CentOS Stream documentation). That compatibility commitment does not make Stream the same product as RHEL or provide the same vendor support and defined enterprise lifecycle.
What happened to CentOS Linux?
CentOS Linux 8 updates ended on December 31, 2021, and CentOS Linux 7 updates ended on June 30, 2024, according to the CentOS Project’s comparison page (lifecycle comparison). There is no current CentOS Linux release line to choose as a maintained alternative.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
CentOS Stream also has version-specific end dates, so do not treat “Stream” as having one shared lifecycle:
- CentOS Stream 8: updates ended May 31, 2024.
- CentOS Stream 9: listed end of life is May 31, 2027.
- CentOS Stream 10: described as maintained until 2030; the exact timing depends on the end of the corresponding RHEL 10 full-support phase (CentOS Stream 10 release notes).
Is CentOS Stream the same as RHEL?
No. Stream is a community distribution in the RHEL development process. RHEL is a separate enterprise product with a defined lifecycle and support from Red Hat staff. Red Hat distinguishes the community support context for CentOS Stream from RHEL’s vendor support (Red Hat: What is CentOS Stream?).
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Shared sources and API/ABI stability expectations can matter when evaluating compatibility, but they do not turn Stream into RHEL or confer a Red Hat support relationship. For production workloads that need vendor-backed enterprise support, Red Hat recommends considering RHEL (Red Hat: What is CentOS?).
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What should you migrate to after CentOS Linux reaches end of life?
There is no automatic move from CentOS Linux to CentOS Stream. The CentOS Project explicitly said it would not automatically migrate CentOS Linux users, so existing systems need a deliberate plan (CentOS Linux EOL notice).
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
- Consider CentOS Stream when you want a community distribution that tracks just ahead of RHEL minor releases, value its development visibility, and can work with its lifecycle and community support model.
- Consider RHEL when an application or workload requires a production-grade platform with Red Hat’s defined lifecycle and vendor support.
Before changing a running system, identify its CentOS Linux major version, workload and support requirements, then choose a target deliberately. The sources establish that migration is a decision users must make; they do not establish a universal in-place conversion procedure that fits every deployment.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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