Flurl vs cURL: What are the differences?

Introduction

Flurl and cURL are both widely used tools for making HTTP requests, but they have some key differences that set them apart. Here are six specific differences between Flurl and cURL:

1. Ease of use and syntax: Flurl, being a .NET library, provides a fluent and intuitive API, allowing developers to write clean and readable code using method chaining. On the other hand, cURL is a command-line tool that requires writing complex commands with various options and flags.

2. Platform compatibility: Flurl is built on top of the .NET framework and runs exclusively on Windows systems, while cURL is a cross-platform tool that can be used on various operating systems such as Windows, macOS, and Linux.

3. Programming language: Flurl is written in C# and is primarily used with .NET development, providing seamless integration with other .NET libraries and frameworks. In contrast, cURL is implemented in C and can be used with various programming languages as it provides a command-line interface.

4. Capabilities: Flurl is specifically designed for building and consuming HTTP APIs, providing features such as URL building, query parameters, authentication, request headers, and response handling. cURL, on the other hand, is a more versatile tool and supports a wide range of protocols, including HTTP, FTP, SMTP, and more.

5. Integration and extensibility: Flurl integrates well with other .NET libraries and frameworks, allowing developers to leverage the existing ecosystem of tools and functionalities. It also provides extensibility through custom plugins and extensions. In comparison, cURL can be integrated into various programming languages and frameworks using system calls or wrappers, but it may require additional effort for seamless integration.

6. User interface: Flurl lacks a graphical user interface (GUI) as it is primarily used within code. On the contrary, cURL provides a command-line interface that allows users to interact with it directly without the need for writing code.

In summary, Flurl is a user-friendly .NET library designed for building and consuming HTTP APIs, while cURL is a versatile command-line tool that supports multiple protocols and can be used with various programming languages and operating systems.