HttpClient vs. WebClient: Which .NET REST Client Should You Choose?

.NET REST client choice: HttpClient vs. WebClient

Web applications built on .NET Framework 4.0 need to make a choice when using REST services: HttpClient or WebClient. Both have their advantages, but which one is the best choice?

The difference between HttpClient and WebClient

HttpClient is a newer API, introduced in .NET 4.5. It provides asynchronous programming, facilitates HTTP standards compliance and support for various platforms. WebClient, on the other hand, is synchronous and lacks the comprehensive feature set of HttpClient.

Performance comparison

Performance testing shows that WebClient performs better for synchronous calls in a local environment. However, in a production environment involving DNS and proxy lookups, HttpClient may be more advantageous.

Concurrency

Because HttpClient is able to reuse resolved DNS, cookie configuration, and authentication, it handles concurrent calls more efficiently than WebClient.

Suggestion

HttpClient is the first choice for applications that require asynchronous programming and compliance with HTTP standards. It provides better concurrency and support for .NET 4.5 and higher. Additionally, HttpClient may provide higher performance in production environments involving DNS and proxy lookups.

Answer questions

• For REST calls with acceptable response times of 3-4 seconds, synchronous calls using WebClient in a local setup may be sufficient.
• In a production environment, HttpClient's improved handling of DNS and proxy lookups may be advantageous.
• HttpClient provides better concurrency compared to WebClient.
• Upgrading to .NET 4.5 and considering performance as a key factor shows that HttpClient is the better design choice.

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