OSS vs Proprietary Cost Comparison
See the real cost difference between open-source and proprietary software. Calculate your potential savings across multiple categories over time.
Choose the tools your business uses
Select at least one category to see your potential savings
OSS vs Proprietary at a Glance
Licensing Costs
Data Ownership
Customization
Price Predictability
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Hidden Costs of Proprietary Software
The listed price is just the beginning. Here are the costs that don't show up on the invoice.
Annual Price Increases
SaaS vendors typically raise prices 5-15% annually. Over 5 years, this can add 50%+ to your original cost.
Feature Tax
Need a specific feature? Often requires upgrading to a higher tier, paying for features you don't need.
Data Migration Costs
When you finally decide to switch, proprietary formats and limited exports make migration expensive.
Integration Premiums
Connecting proprietary systems often requires paid connectors, API access tiers, or custom development.
The Cost Gap Widens Over Time
While OSS has fixed hosting costs, proprietary software compounds with annual price increases.
OSS
$5,000
Proprietary
$18,000
Cumulative Savings
$13,000
OSS
$15,000
Proprietary
$59,000
Cumulative Savings
$44,000
OSS
$25,000
Proprietary
$108,000
Cumulative Savings
$83,000
*Based on a 25-user team comparing Salesforce vs SuiteCRM. Proprietary costs assume 8% annual increases.
What OSS Delivers That Money Can't Buy
Cost savings are compelling, but the strategic advantages of open-source are even more valuable.
- Full control over your technology roadmap
- No forced upgrades or unwanted changes
- Community-driven innovation and improvements
- Ability to hire any developer to customize
- Your data stays with you, always
- No vendor negotiations or contract renewals
Typical Client Savings
72%
reduction in software costs
Over a 5-year period across CRM, project management, and communication tools
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