dapper and EF core

The main difference between Dapper and Entity Framework Core (EF Core) lies in their approach, performance, and level of abstraction in working with databases in .NET applications.

Here's a detailed comparison:

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🆚 Dapper vs Entity Framework Core

Feature	Dapper	Entity Framework Core
Type	Micro ORM (Object-Relational Mapper)	Full-fledged ORM
Performance	Faster – Almost as fast as raw ADO.NET	Slower compared to Dapper (due to abstraction)
Ease of Use	Manual SQL writing required	Query generation handled automatically
Learning Curve	Easier for SQL-savvy developers	Steeper (especially for advanced features)
Query Language	Raw SQL	LINQ
Control Over SQL	Full control	Limited unless using raw SQL or FromSqlRaw
Change Tracking	❌ No automatic change tracking	✅ Yes
Caching	❌ No built-in caching	✅ First-level caching supported
Lazy Loading	❌ Not supported by default	✅ Supported
Migrations Support	❌ No migrations	✅ Built-in migrations
Best Use Case	High-performance, read-heavy applications	Applications with complex data models and CRUD
Complex Joins	Manual (you write the JOIN)	Handled via navigation properties and LINQ
Setup Complexity	Lightweight and simple	Requires more setup and configuration

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✅ When to Use Dapper:

• You need maximum performance (e.g., reporting, high-traffic APIs).
• You prefer writing raw SQL yourself.
• Your app is read-heavy or has simple CRUD operations.
• You want a lightweight ORM.

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✅ When to Use EF Core:

• You want rapid development with less manual SQL.
• Your application has a complex domain model.
• You need automated change tracking, migrations, and relationship management.
• You prefer LINQ queries over SQL.

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👨‍💻 Example Comparison

Dapper Example:

var user = connection.QueryFirstOrDefault<User>("SELECT * FROM Users WHERE Id = @Id", new { Id = userId });

EF Core Example:

var user = dbContext.Users.FirstOrDefault(u => u.Id == userId);

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Happy Coding!