WebGL vs WebGPU

Developers should learn WebGL when building web applications that require high-performance graphics, such as data visualizations, 3D modeling tools, interactive games, or virtual/augmented reality experiences meets developers should learn webgpu when building web applications that require advanced graphics, real-time rendering, or gpu-accelerated computations, such as games, scientific visualizations, or ai inference in the browser. Here's our take.

WebGL

Nice Pick

Developers should learn WebGL when building web applications that require high-performance graphics, such as data visualizations, 3D modeling tools, interactive games, or virtual/augmented reality experiences

Pros

• It is essential for projects where leveraging GPU acceleration is critical to achieve smooth rendering and real-time interactivity, especially in fields like engineering simulations, medical imaging, or e-commerce product visualizations
• Related to: javascript, html5-canvas

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

WebGPU

Developers should learn WebGPU when building web applications that require advanced graphics, real-time rendering, or GPU-accelerated computations, such as games, scientific visualizations, or AI inference in the browser

Pros

• It is particularly useful for projects needing better performance and control than WebGL offers, as it reduces driver overhead and supports modern GPU architectures like Vulkan, Metal, and DirectX 12
• Related to: webgl, javascript

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. WebGL is a api while WebGPU is a platform. We picked WebGL based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

WebGL wins

Based on overall popularity. WebGL is more widely used, but WebGPU excels in its own space.