PostSharp vs ReSharper: What are the differences?

Introduction

In this write-up, we will explore the key differences between PostSharp and ReSharper, two popular tools used in software development. Markdown code will be used to format the content for website use.

1. Integration Level: PostSharp operates at a low level by modifying the compiled IL (Intermediate Language) of the code, while ReSharper operates at a higher level by analyzing and modifying the source code. This difference in integration level allows PostSharp to achieve broader code enhancements, such as implementing cross-cutting concerns through aspect-oriented programming, but at the cost of increased complexity and potential limitations.

2. Supported Languages: ReSharper primarily focuses on providing support for the JetBrains suite of IDEs (Integrated Development Environments), including ReSharper for .NET, ReSharper C++, and ReSharper Ultimate. On the other hand, PostSharp is language agnostic and can be used with a variety of programming languages, including .NET languages like C#, Visual Basic, and F#, as well as non-.NET languages like Java.

3. Feature Set: Both PostSharp and ReSharper offer a range of features to enhance software development productivity. However, PostSharp is specifically designed to handle cross-cutting concerns, allowing developers to modularize and maintain these concerns separately from the core business logic. ReSharper, on the other hand, focuses more on code analysis, refactoring, and intelligent code completion, providing developers with a comprehensive set of tools for improving code quality and maintaining a consistent coding style.

4. Learning Curve: The learning curve associated with using PostSharp can be steeper compared to ReSharper. This is primarily due to the nature of PostSharp's IL-based approach and the need to understand the concepts and techniques of aspect-oriented programming. ReSharper, in contrast, follows more familiar coding practices and can be adopted relatively easily by developers familiar with modern IDEs and their associated tooling.

5. Build Process: PostSharp modifies the compiled IL during the build process, which means that the PostSharp framework needs to be installed and configured on each developer's machine as well as the build server. ReSharper, on the other hand, does not require any additional setup during the build process and works directly within the IDE, providing real-time feedback and suggestions to developers as they write and modify code.

6. Community and Ecosystem: ReSharper benefits from a strong community and ecosystem due to its integration with JetBrains' suite of IDEs. This translates to a wealth of third-party plugins, extensions, and support resources available for ReSharper users. PostSharp, while also having a dedicated community, may not have the same level of third-party support or resources, as it caters to a narrower niche with its aspect-oriented programming focus.

In Summary, PostSharp and ReSharper offer distinct approaches to enhancing software development. PostSharp excels in providing aspect-oriented programming features, supporting multiple languages, and allowing fine-grained modification of compiled code. ReSharper, on the other hand, focuses on code analysis, refactoring, and an extensive set of intelligent code completion tools within JetBrains' suite of IDEs.