Windows API vs Electron

Developers should learn the Windows API when building native Windows desktop applications, system utilities, or drivers that require direct interaction with the Windows OS, such as for performance-critical software, hardware integration, or legacy system maintenance meets developers should use electron when they need to create desktop applications that run on multiple operating systems with a consistent user interface and want to reuse web development expertise. Here's our take.

Windows API

Nice Pick

Developers should learn the Windows API when building native Windows desktop applications, system utilities, or drivers that require direct interaction with the Windows OS, such as for performance-critical software, hardware integration, or legacy system maintenance

Pros

• It is essential for scenarios like creating custom GUI applications, accessing low-level system functions, or developing software that must run efficiently on Windows without relying on higher-level frameworks
• Related to: c-plus-plus, c-sharp

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

Electron

Developers should use Electron when they need to create desktop applications that run on multiple operating systems with a consistent user interface and want to reuse web development expertise

Pros

• It's ideal for building productivity tools, communication apps, and development environments where rapid prototyping and cross-platform deployment are priorities, such as in applications like Visual Studio Code, Slack, and Discord
• Related to: javascript, node-js

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. Windows API is a platform while Electron is a framework. We picked Windows API based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

Windows API wins

Based on overall popularity. Windows API is more widely used, but Electron excels in its own space.