Component Object Model vs Windows Runtime

Developers should learn COM when working with legacy Windows systems, enterprise applications, or technologies built on it, such as Office automation, Windows shell extensions, or DirectX game development meets developers should learn winrt when building cross-device windows applications for pcs, tablets, xbox, hololens, or iot devices, as it ensures compatibility and a consistent user experience across the windows ecosystem. Here's our take.

Component Object Model

Nice Pick

Developers should learn COM when working with legacy Windows systems, enterprise applications, or technologies built on it, such as Office automation, Windows shell extensions, or DirectX game development

Pros

• It's essential for maintaining and extending older Windows software, integrating with Microsoft products, or understanding low-level Windows architecture, though modern development often uses newer alternatives like
• Related to: ole, activex

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

Windows Runtime

Developers should learn WinRT when building cross-device Windows applications for PCs, tablets, Xbox, HoloLens, or IoT devices, as it ensures compatibility and a consistent user experience across the Windows ecosystem

Pros

• It is particularly useful for creating touch-friendly, responsive UWP apps that leverage modern Windows features, such as Cortana integration or inking, and for scenarios requiring app distribution through the Microsoft Store
• Related to: universal-windows-platform, c-plus-plus

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. Component Object Model is a concept while Windows Runtime is a platform. We picked Component Object Model based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

Component Object Model wins

Based on overall popularity. Component Object Model is more widely used, but Windows Runtime excels in its own space.