Mono vs .NET Framework

Developers should learn Mono when they need to create or port meets developers should learn . Here's our take.

Mono

Nice Pick

Developers should learn Mono when they need to create or port

Pros

• NET applications to non-Windows platforms, such as for Linux server deployments, macOS desktop apps, or mobile development with Xamarin (which builds on Mono)
• Related to: c-sharp, dotnet

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

.NET Framework

Developers should learn

Pros

• NET Framework for building Windows-specific applications, particularly legacy enterprise systems, desktop apps using Windows Forms or WPF, and ASP
• Related to: csharp, asp-net

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

Use Mono if: You want net applications to non-windows platforms, such as for linux server deployments, macos desktop apps, or mobile development with xamarin (which builds on mono) and can live with specific tradeoffs depend on your use case.

Use .NET Framework if: You prioritize net framework for building windows-specific applications, particularly legacy enterprise systems, desktop apps using windows forms or wpf, and asp over what Mono offers.

The Bottom Line

Mono wins

Developers should learn Mono when they need to create or port