SDK vs. Framework — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on October 19, 2023
SDK (Software Development Kit) provides tools for developing software applications, while a Framework offers predefined structures and functions to build upon.
Difference Between SDK and Framework
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
In essence, while both SDK and Framework aim to simplify and streamline the development process, an SDK offers specialized tools for particular platforms, and a Framework gives developers a preset structure to follow and build upon.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
An SDK might often come bundled with an integrated development environment (IDE), sample code, or debugging tools. It’s like a toolbox equipped for a specific task. In contrast, a Framework can be visualized as the skeletal structure of a building, guiding how applications should be constructed and organized.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
Importantly, while SDKs provide the necessities for a particular platform or service, Frameworks are generally platform-agnostic. Frameworks don’t discriminate between platforms but focus on giving a structure to the application building process.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
When utilizing an SDK, developers receive specialized tools tailored for a platform, like Android or iOS. These tools simplify the development process and ensure compatibility. Conversely, when using a Framework, developers work atop a set foundation, leveraging provided functions and structures, thereby saving time and maintaining consistency.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
SDK, or Software Development Kit, encompasses a suite of tools, libraries, and documentation geared towards aiding developers in creating software for specific platforms or environments. On the contrary, a Framework provides a foundational structure with preset functionalities upon which developers construct applications, often dictating the application's architecture.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Primary Purpose
Offer tools for specific platforms
Provide structure and preset functionalities
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Oct 19, 2023
Composition
Tools, libraries, documentation
Predefined structures and functions
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Oct 19, 2023
Integration
Often bundled with IDEs, debuggers
Incorporated into a broader development environment
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
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Definitions
SDK
Libraries and documentation aiding software creation.
To develop for the new gaming console, I downloaded its SDK.
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Oct 06, 2023
Framework
Structures and functionalities simplifying application building.
Thanks to the Framework, the app's backend was up in no time.
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Oct 06, 2023
SDK
A set of software tools for specific development tasks.
The Android SDK provides tools tailored for Android app development.
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Oct 06, 2023
Framework
A set structure upon which software is constructed.
With the Flask Framework, I quickly set up a web application.
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Oct 06, 2023
SDK
Development resources for tailored software creation.
The SDK contained everything I needed to start coding for the device.
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Oct 06, 2023
Framework
Predefined functions and patterns guiding software creation.
Using the right Framework can significantly speed up the development process.
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Oct 06, 2023
SDK
A package enabling software development for a platform.
With the right SDK, creating a mobile app becomes more streamlined.
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Oct 06, 2023
Framework
A structure for supporting or enclosing something else, especially a skeletal support used as the basis for something being constructed.
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Oct 04, 2023
SDK
Tools simplifying application development processes.
The company released an SDK to encourage third-party integrations.
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Oct 06, 2023
Framework
A set of assumptions, concepts, values, and practices that constitutes a way of viewing reality.
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Framework
(literally) A support structure comprising joined parts or conglomerated particles and intervening open spaces of similar or larger size.
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Framework
(literally) The arrangement of support beams that represent a building's general shape and size.
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Oct 04, 2023
Framework
(figuratively) The larger branches of a tree that determine its shape.
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Framework
(figuratively) A basic conceptual structure.
These ‘three principles of connexion’ compose the framework of principles in Hume's account of the association of ideas.
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Oct 04, 2023
Framework
(software engineering) A reusable piece of code (and, sometimes, other utilities) providing a standard environment within which an application can be implemented.
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Oct 04, 2023
Framework
(grammar) An established and structured system of rules and principles used for analyzing and describing the structure of a language.
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Framework
The work of framing, or the completed work; the frame or constructional part of anything; as, the framework of society.
A staunch and solid piece of framework.
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Oct 04, 2023
Framework
A simplified description of a complex entity or process;
The computer program was based on a model of the circulatory and respiratory systems
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Framework
The underlying structure;
Restoring the framework of the bombed building
It is part of the fabric of society
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Framework
A foundational structure for application development.
The .NET Framework provides a robust environment for building Windows apps.
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Oct 06, 2023
Framework
A platform-agnostic scaffold for development.
The Framework gave me the flexibility to deploy on multiple platforms.
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Oct 06, 2023
FAQs
Can a Framework be part of an SDK?
Yes, sometimes SDKs may include specific Frameworks to aid in development.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
Is a Framework mandatory for application development?
No, but Frameworks simplify and structure the development process.
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Oct 19, 2023
What’s a popular web development Framework?
Django and Flask are popular Frameworks for web development in Python.
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Oct 19, 2023
Is an SDK platform-specific?
Generally, yes. SDKs are usually tailored for specific platforms or services.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
What are the benefits of using a Framework?
Frameworks offer structure, reusable code, and best practices, speeding up development.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
Can one application use multiple Frameworks?
Yes, applications can leverage multiple Frameworks for varied functionalities.
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Oct 19, 2023
Can I create my own Framework?
Yes, experienced developers can create custom Frameworks to suit specific needs.
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How does a Framework differ from a library?
A Framework provides a structure for app building, while a library offers specific functions without dictating structure.
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Oct 19, 2023
Do I always need an SDK to develop software?
No, but SDKs provide tailored tools making development for specific platforms easier.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
Does using an SDK mean my application is locked to one platform?
Often, yes. SDKs are tailored for specific platforms, making the developed software compatible with that platform.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
Can I use multiple SDKs in one project?
Yes, projects can incorporate multiple SDKs, especially if integrating diverse functionalities or services.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
Do SDKs only contain tools?
No, SDKs can include tools, libraries, documentation, and even Frameworks.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
Is every SDK associated with an IDE?
Not always, but many SDKs come bundled with an Integrated Development Environment.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
Do all mobile apps use SDKs?
Most do, especially if they target specific platforms like Android or iOS.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
Author Spotlight
Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
