Web Browser Control vs WebView2

Developers should use Web Browser Control when building applications that need to display web content without opening an external browser, such as in hybrid mobile apps (e meets developers should use webview2 when building windows desktop applications that need to display web content, create hybrid apps with web uis, or leverage web technologies for parts of the interface while maintaining native performance and integration. Here's our take.

Web Browser Control

Nice Pick

Developers should use Web Browser Control when building applications that need to display web content without opening an external browser, such as in hybrid mobile apps (e

Pros

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• Related to: html, css

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

WebView2

Developers should use WebView2 when building Windows desktop applications that need to display web content, create hybrid apps with web UIs, or leverage web technologies for parts of the interface while maintaining native performance and integration

Pros

• It is ideal for scenarios like embedding web-based dashboards, using web frameworks for UI components, or modernizing legacy apps with web views, as it replaces older technologies like WebBrowser control and ensures compatibility with the latest Edge updates
• Related to: c-sharp, winui

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. Web Browser Control is a tool while WebView2 is a framework. We picked Web Browser Control based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

Web Browser Control wins

Based on overall popularity. Web Browser Control is more widely used, but WebView2 excels in its own space.