Entity Framework vs Dapper: Which ORM Should You Use for Your Next .NET Project?

Object-Relational Mapping (ORM) bridges C# code and databases—but choosing the right tool matters. This article compares Entity Framework and Dapper, explaining how each handles database interactions, migrations, and queries. Entity Framework simplifies CRUD operations and supports LINQ for clean, maintainable code, ideal for productivity-focused projects. Dapper, on the other hand, prioritizes performance and query control, making it the better choice for complex, data-intensive applications. The key takeaway: use Entity Framework when ease of development matters most and Dapper when raw execution speed and SQL precision are critical.