protobuf vs thrift: What are the differences?

# Protocol Buffers vs. Apache Thrift

Introduction: Protocol Buffers (protobuf) and Apache Thrift are both popular frameworks for defining data structures and services. While they serve a similar purpose, there are key differences between them that make each suitable for different use cases.

1. **Data Serialization**: Protobuf focuses on data serialization and binary encoding, while Thrift supports various data formats including JSON and XML in addition to binary serialization.
2. **Language Support**: Protobuf supports a wider range of programming languages including C++, Java, Python, and more, while Thrift has native support for fewer languages but allows for easier integration with languages not officially supported.
3. **Extensibility**: Protobuf provides better support for schema evolution, allowing for easier compatibility between different version of data structures, while Thrift has limited support for evolving schemas.
4. **Performance**: Protobuf is known for its efficient binary serialization which results in faster serialization and deserialization compared to Thrift, especially for large datasets.
5. **Community and Ecosystem**: Thrift, being backed by Apache, has a larger community and ecosystem compared to protobuf, resulting in more resources, libraries, and support available for Thrift users.
6. **Tooling and Documentation**: Protobuf has more comprehensive tooling and documentation which makes it easier for developers to work with, while Thrift may have a steeper learning curve due to its lesser documentation and tooling.

In Summary, when choosing between Protocol Buffers and Apache Thrift, consider factors like data serialization needs, language support, schema evolution, performance, community support, and documentation availability.