Electron

4.5

Electron

Electron is a framework that enables cross-platform desktop app development using web technologies like JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.

San Francisco, California, USA

GitHub

2013

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Overview

Electron is a powerful open-source framework developed by GitHub that enables developers to build cross-platform desktop applications using web technologies like JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. By combining Chromium and Node.js, Electron allows apps to run seamlessly on Windows, macOS, and Linux with a single codebase. Trusted by apps like Visual Studio Code and Slack, it simplifies desktop development while delivering native-like performance and access to OS-level features.

Pros

Cross-platform development saves time

Access to native device features easily

Vibrant community for support and resources

Easily integrate web technologies together

Flexibility in app design and functionality

Cons

Larger file sizes compared to native apps

Performance may lag in complex applications

Frequent updates can be cumbersome

Best For

Electron is ideal for developing cross-platform desktop applications using web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript efficiently.

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Key Features

Build Cross-Platform Desktop Apps

Create desktop applications that run smoothly on Windows, macOS, and Linux, saving you time and effort by writing a single codebase.

Utilize Web Technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)

Design beautiful, interactive apps using familiar web technologies—so if you're comfortable with web development, you'll find building desktop apps straightforward.

Leverage Node.js Integration

Bring the power of Node.js into your desktop apps, allowing you to perform file operations, network requests, and more behind the scenes.

Access Native Operating System Features

Access native OS features like system notifications, clipboard, or file dialogs to make your app feel integrated and seamless within the user's computer environment.

Auto-Update Capabilities

Easily implement automatic updates to keep your app current, providing a smoother experience for your users without manual downloads.

Rich Developer Tools and Debugging

Take advantage of built-in developer tools similar to Chrome DevTools, making debugging and improving your app a breeze.

Support for Packaging and Distribution

Package your applications neatly for distribution, ready for deployment to app stores or direct download links, streamlining your release process.

Customizable User Interface

Customize your app's look and feel with flexible UI components, themes, and menus to match your brand or personal style.

Secure Application Environment

Build with security in mind, using sandboxing and other measures to protect users and their data from potential threats.

Plan & Price

Standard

Free

Basic Electron framework access

Community support

Open source

Professional

$499/year

Advanced features

Priority support

Extended integrations

Alternatives

Platform	Description	Pricing
NW.js	NW.js allows you to build desktop applications using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, integrating Node.js runtime with Chromium.	Open source and free to use
Flutter for Desktop	Flutter for Desktop enables building natively compiled applications for desktop from a single codebase, mainly using Dart.	Open source and free to use
React Native for Windows + macOS	React Native for Windows + macOS extends React Native to create native Windows and macOS applications using JavaScript and React.	Open source and free to use
Tauri	Tauri is a framework for building tiny, secure, and fast desktop applications using web technologies paired with a Rust backend.	Open source and free to use
Proton Native	Proton Native allows building desktop applications using React, providing native components instead of webviews.	Open source and free to use

Review

Consumer Opinion

Vetted Review

Electron enables quick cross-platform app development with familiar web technologies.

Terrible

Bad

Okay

Good

Amazing

Consumer Opinion

Vetted Review

High memory usage is a concern, but deployment and updates are simple.

Terrible

Bad

Okay

Good

Amazing

Consumer Opinion

Vetted Review

Great for building versatile desktop apps with a strong community support.

Terrible

Bad

Okay

Good

Amazing

Features

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

Ease of Use

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

Value for Money

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

Customer Support

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

Recommendation

✅ Yes, especially for entrepreneurs and marketers

AppDeel Verdict

Electron is a versatile framework that makes building cross-platform desktop apps easy and efficient. Its user-friendly environment and vast community support help developers create feature-rich applications quickly, making it a great choice for both beginners and seasoned programmers.