Django Filter vs Django Rest Framework: Which to Use?

What are the main differences between Django Filter and Django Rest Framework?

Django Filter is primarily used for filtering querysets in Django applications, while Django Rest Framework (DRF) is a powerful toolkit for building Web APIs. DRF includes features like serialization, authentication, and viewsets, which are not part of Django Filter.

When should I use Django Filter instead of DRF?

You should use Django Filter when you need to filter data in a standard Django view. If you're building an API, DRF is more suitable as it provides a comprehensive set of tools for API development.

Can I use Django Filter with Django Rest Framework?

Yes, you can use Django Filter with DRF to enhance your API by allowing users to filter results based on query parameters.

What are some common use cases for each?

Common use cases for Django Filter include filtering lists in web applications, while DRF is used for creating RESTful APIs for mobile apps or frontend frameworks.