Django and Flask are two popular web frameworks in Python, but they
differ significantly in their design philosophies, features, and use cases.
Here's a detailed comparison to help you understand the key differences
between them:
Django
Django is a high-level web framework that encourages rapid
development and clean, pragmatic design. It is often referred to as a
"batteries-included" framework because it comes with a lot of built-in
features.
Key Features:
1. Built-in Admin Interface: Django includes a powerful admin
interface that allows you to manage your application's data without
any additional configuration.
2. ORM (Object-Relational Mapping): Django's ORM allows you to
interact with the database using Python objects, abstracting away
SQL queries.
3. Authentication: Django comes with a built-in authentication
system, including user registration, login, and permission handling.
4. Form Handling: Django provides a comprehensive system for
handling forms, including form validation and CSRF protection.
5. URL Routing: Django uses a URL dispatcher that maps URL
patterns to views.
6. Scalability: Designed for larger applications, Django follows the
DRY (Don't Repeat Yourself) principle, promoting reusable code.
Flask
Flask is a micro web framework that provides the basic tools to build web
applications. It is designed to be simple and flexible, making it an
excellent choice for smaller projects or for developers who want more
control over their application's components.
Key Features:
1. Lightweight and Minimalistic: Flask is lightweight and provides
only the essential features, giving developers the freedom to choose
their components.
2. Modularity: Flask allows you to add extensions as needed, making
it highly customizable.
3. Flexibility: Flask's simplicity and flexibility make it easy to
understand and use, ideal for quick prototyping.
4. URL Routing: Flask uses a simple routing mechanism to map URLs
to view functions.
5. Minimal Setup: Flask requires minimal setup to get started,
making it a good choice for small projects and RESTful APIs.
6. Jinja2 Templating: Flask uses the Jinja2 templating engine,
allowing you to create dynamic web pages.
Comparison Table
Feature Django Flask
Batteries-included, rapid
Philosophy Lightweight, minimalistic
development
No built-in ORM (use
ORM Built-in Django ORM
SQLAlchemy)
Admin Built-in, powerful admin
No built-in admin interface
Interface interface
Form Requires third-party
Built-in form handling
Handling extensions
Authenticati Requires third-party
Built-in authentication system
on extensions
Suitable for large, complex Suitable for small to
Scalability
applications medium apps
Less flexible due to built-in Highly flexible and
Flexibility
components customizable
Templating Django templating engine Jinja2 templating engine
Setup Requires more initial setup Minimal setup
Csrf detail https://portswigger.net/web-security/csrf