Why do some developers choose custom VST plugins over Kontakt?

Hi everyone! I’ve been exploring instruments from Crow Hill and noticed they use their own VST plugin instead of Kontakt.

I’m curious — why do developers go this route?

Is it mainly about:

  • more flexibility and deeper control over features and performance?
  • avoiding licensing costs or dependence on Native Instruments?
  • better UI/UX possibilities?– long-term independence and scalability?

Or are there other technical or strategic reasons I’m missing?

Would really appreciate hearing your thoughts and experiences — especially from those who’ve worked with both Kontakt and custom plugins.