The key difference is what the software’s license lets you do. Open-source licenses grant rights to access source code, modify it, and redistribute the original or modified software under stated conditions. Proprietary licenses generally reserve those rights to the vendor or copyright holder. Price and whether some code is visible do not settle the question: the exact license and product terms do.
What makes software open source?
Open source is a licensing standard, not simply a description of visible code. The Open Source Initiative (OSI) defines it through 10 criteria, including access to source code, permission to create and distribute derived works, and permission to redistribute the software. The criteria also address discrimination, restrictions on other software, and technology neutrality. The Open Source Definition was last modified February 16, 2024.
That distinction matters when code is available to inspect but its terms prohibit modification or redistribution. Such access alone does not make a program open source under the OSI definition. Check the license that applies to the code, rather than relying only on a product page’s “open” label.
How does proprietary software differ?
Proprietary software generally gives users permission to use the program under the vendor’s terms while reserving broader rights—such as studying, modifying, or redistributing it—to the vendor or other rights holder. The source code may be unavailable, or it may be disclosed under terms that still limit what users can do with it.
#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.
“Proprietary” does not identify one universal set of restrictions. A vendor’s license may permit some activities and forbid others, and separate terms can govern hosting, updates, support, or services. Read the applicable terms for the product and edition in question.
Is open-source software free?
Not necessarily in price. Open-source software can be sold, and a seller may charge for copies or related services. The word “free” in “free software” refers to liberty, not cost. The GNU Project describes free software in terms of users’ freedoms to run a program for any purpose, study and change it, redistribute copies, and distribute modified versions. The GNU Project’s explanation of free software says: “When we speak of free software, we are referring to freedom, not price.”
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.
Open source and free software describe substantially overlapping sets of licenses, but emphasize different ideas. OSI focuses on criteria for open-source licenses; the Free Software Foundation (FSF) foregrounds user freedom and control. Neither term, by itself, tells you whether a particular copy costs money.
Can businesses use open-source software?
Yes. Commercial use is permitted under the Open Source Definition. OSI’s FAQ states: “All Open Source software can be used for commercial purpose; the Open Source Definition guarantees this.” That does not mean every use or redistribution is condition-free: the applicable license can require you to follow specific terms when you distribute copies or modified software.
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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.
For example, some copyleft licenses require distributed modified or extended versions to remain under the applicable free-software terms. Copyleft is one licensing approach, not a requirement of all open-source licenses. Other, non-copyleft licenses can allow code to be incorporated into proprietary programs. The obligations depend on the license and how the software is used or distributed. GNU’s copyleft explanation describes the approach as preserving freedom by requiring distributed modified versions to remain free under the relevant terms.
Can you modify and redistribute open-source software?
Open-source licenses generally permit modification and redistribution, but the exact permissions and conditions differ by license. Before changing or sharing a program, check the license for the relevant code and whether it covers the activity you plan to undertake. In particular, look for conditions that apply when you distribute an unchanged copy, a modified version, or software that incorporates the code.
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
- Modification: Does the license allow you to change the software or create derived works?
- Redistribution: Can you pass on copies, and must you preserve notices or meet other stated conditions?
- Modified versions: Does distributing your changes trigger requirements, such as keeping them under the same license?
- Commercial use: Is your intended use permitted, and do distribution-specific obligations apply?
Do not assume that every open-source license requires you to publish all changes. Requirements vary, and the relevant obligations depend on the license and circumstances of use or distribution.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How should you compare two software products?
Compare the licenses for the programs themselves, then evaluate any separate product or service terms. A product may combine open-source components with proprietary code, hosting, support, or other offerings, so a broad marketing description may not tell you which terms apply to each part.
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- 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.
| What to check | Question to answer |
|---|---|
| Source code | Is the source available in the preferred form for making modifications? |
| Modification | Does the license permit changes and derived works? |
| Redistribution | Can you redistribute copies, and what conditions apply? |
| Modified versions | What terms apply if you distribute changes or extensions? |
| Commercial use | Is commercial use allowed, and do particular distribution obligations apply? |
| Support and services | What separate terms govern support, updates, hosting, and other services? |
The first five questions concern license permissions. Support and service arrangements are product-specific; the software’s open-source status does not establish what a vendor includes or promises. For licensing background, OSI’s FAQ points readers to Karl Fogel’s Producing Open Source Software.
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