If you are a producer looking to learn, neither is a moral haven. However, if forced to choose a lesser evil:
Boutique developers often release high-end "lite" versions or full freeware to build brand loyalty before users upgrade to paid suites. Open Source Innovation: Community-driven projects like fastnfree org vst hot
Many sites offering "free" versions of paid software like Xfer Serum or Omnisphere bundle installers with trojans, ransomware, or crypto-miners. If you are a producer looking to learn,