Side by side
Hex vs Maven Central
Both stand on package registries. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan APISelf-hostedWeb
Hex combines package distribution and documentation with organization controls for private packages and policies. Its private-package dependency restriction is worth considering when planning how an organization will use it.
Visit Hex Free plan APIWeb
Maven Central provides discovery and distribution for Java ecosystem components, with publishing checks and identity verification tools. Its free plan is limited to community open-source use, and component safety is not guaranteed.
Visit Maven CentralThe facts
| Hex | Maven Central | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Self-hosted, Web | API, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Private Packages (annual): $90 per user a year | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 4 | 2 |
| Maker | Hex | Not published |
| Website | hex.pm | central.sonatype.com |
| On package registries | #10 of 28 | #14 of 28 |
Hex: what it does well
- Dependencies can be fetched without an account.
- Works with Mix, Rebar, and erlang.mk.
- Organizations can manage access to private packages.
- Supports self-hosting a package repository.
What to know first
- Private packages have a restricted dependency scope.
- Enterprise pricing is available by contacting sales.
Maven Central: what it does well
- Default repository for Apache Maven and SBT.
- Website supports component and package discovery.
- Uploads are validated before publication.
- Checksums and GPG signatures help verify identity.
- Higher-limit or exemption review is available.
What to know first
- Free publishing has monthly count and size limits.
- Private packages are not supported.
- Sonatype does not guarantee component safety.
Alternatives to Hex Alternatives to Maven Central The whole list