The Digital Press

A healthcare professional and hobbyist developer switched from htmx to datastar for a clinic scheduling service but was upset when datastar moved key features behind a $299 paywall.

Why it matters: Datastar's shift restricts previously free features, impacting hobbyists and small developers relying on open tools.

The stakes: Charging $299 for essential features alienates non-commercial users and may reduce adoption of the library.

The other side: While developers need funding, abrupt paywalling of core features frustrates loyal users and damages trust.

Commenters say: Many sympathize with the author’s frustration, criticizing datastar’s monetization approach and praising htmx’s steadier free model.