Windows Runtime vs Electron

Developers should learn WinRT when building cross-device Windows applications that require a modern, sandboxed environment with access to system features like sensors, notifications, and live tiles 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 Runtime

Nice Pick

Developers should learn WinRT when building cross-device Windows applications that require a modern, sandboxed environment with access to system features like sensors, notifications, and live tiles

Pros

• It is essential for creating UWP apps that target the Microsoft Store, ensuring compatibility with Windows 10/11 and integration with services like Cortana and Azure
• Related to: universal-windows-platform, c-plus-plus-winrt

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 Runtime is a platform while Electron is a framework. We picked Windows Runtime based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

Windows Runtime wins

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