Difference Between Spring MVC and Spring WebFlux

Spring MVC

Spring MVC Framework takes on the Model-View-Controller design pattern, which moves around the Dispatcher Servlet, also called the Front Controller. With the help of annotations like @Controller and @RequestMapping, the by-default handler becomes a robust(strong) tool with a diverse set of handling ways. This kind of dynamic kind of feature allows for easy customization and efficient handling in multiple cases.

In Spring 3.0, the @Controller annotation has a feature that not only allows developers to make regular websites and apps but also certifies them to build RESTful ones as well. By using the @PathVariable annotation and other features, building RESTful websites and applications becomes very easy.

Spring WebFlux

Spring Framework was introduced along with Spring Web MVC, a Web framework that was designed for Servlet API and Servlet containers. But then, as version 5.0 was introduced, Spring surprised things up by presenting Spring WebFlux. This framework takes a different path to building web development, focusing on a reactive-stack design.

Inside Spring Framework, we'll find couple of web frameworks called spring-webmvc and spring-webflux. It's interesting that these two frameworks have names that are similar to their original modules. What's even more interesting thing is that these two frameworks can operate together peacefully.

We are free to choose whether we want to use one or both frameworks. So, if it aligns with what we're looking for, we can combine Spring MVC controllers with the reactive WebClient.

In this article, we will be learning Spring MVC vs Spring WebFlux.

Difference Between Spring MVC and Spring WebFlux

Similarities Between Spring MVC and Spring WebFlux

Although they have multiple differences, but they have many similarities,

• Use of Spring annotation-driven configuration in both frameworks ensures a seamless and effortless setup and configuration. Annotations like @Controller, @RequestMapping i.e., similarities in Annotation-Driven Configuration.
• Spring MVC and WebFlux both frameworks offer exceptional assistance in constructing RESTful web services. we can utilize familiar annotations and structures in both frameworks to create REST APIs easily.
• Spring Boot is cooperative with both these frameworks, making it easy to set up and run Spring-based applications with a simplified and convention-over-configuration approach and ensures compatibility.
• Spring MVC and WebFlux both offer comprehensive and detailed documentation, make sure we have all the information we need. however, being part of the Spring ecosystem means they help to from a strong community and support network.