C++ Desktop Frameworks
Desktop application development with C++ is the ideal choice for sophisticated applications requiring maximum performance and system-level control.
Key Features
1. Outstanding Performance
Native compilation achieves unmatched performance in memory efficiency and execution speed. Ideal for real-time processing and large-scale data processing.
2. System-Level Access
Direct access to OS native APIs enables application development that maximizes hardware capabilities.
3. Mature Ecosystem
Stable frameworks with decades of proven track records like Qt, wxWidgets, and GTK are available, with guaranteed long-term support.
Use Cases
- Game Engines: High-performance game engines like Unreal Engine and CryEngine
- CAD/CAM: Design and manufacturing software like AutoCAD and SolidWorks
- Media Editing: Video editing tools like Adobe Premiere and DaVinci Resolve
- Embedded System UI: Industrial equipment, medical devices, and automotive infotainment systems
Technology Trends (2025)
- Modern C++ Utilization: C++20/23 new features enable safer and more expressive code writing
- GPU Integration: Advanced graphics processing through integration with Vulkan and DirectX 12
- Enhanced Cross-Platform: Evolution of Qt 6 realizes true Write Once, Run Anywhere
- AI/ML Support: High-speed inference implementation through ONNX Runtime and TensorRT integration
C++ desktop frameworks continue to reign as the first choice in fields where performance is paramount.
GitHub Star Comparison
| No | Name | GitHub Stars | Description | Trend | License | Official Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | wxWidgets | ⭐ 6.7k | Cross-platform GUI library for C++. Uses native APIs for each platform to achieve OS-standard appearance and feel. Lightweight, fast, and commercially usable license. Provides stable API over long periods. | Continues adoption in application development prioritizing native appearance and lightweight nature in 2025. Particularly used in embedded systems and constrained environments. Simpler than Qt with lower learning cost, suitable for small teams. | wxWindows License | Official |
| 2 | Qt | ⭐ 2.7k | Comprehensive cross-platform development framework for C++. Integrates rich UI components, networking, database, and graphics capabilities. Balances declarative UI development with QML and high C++ performance. Offers both commercial and open-source licenses. | Maintains solid position as de facto standard for C++ desktop development in 2025. Qt 6 modernization enables wide adoption from embedded systems to enterprise applications. Particularly increasing adoption in automotive, medical devices, and industrial control systems. | GPL/LGPL/Commercial | Official |
| 3 | FLTK | ⭐ 1.9k | Abbreviation for Fast Light Tool Kit. Extremely lightweight and fast cross-platform GUI library. Achieves small binary size with minimal dependencies. Optimal for embedded systems and resource-constrained environments. | Maintains specialized demand in embedded systems and lightweight application fields in 2025. Increasing adoption as UI for IoT devices and industrial equipment. High selection rate in real-time systems due to low memory usage. | LGPL with Static Linking Exception | Official |
| 4 | GTK | ⭐ 1.6k | Multi-platform GUI toolkit serving as foundation for GNOME desktop environment. High customizability through object-oriented design and theming system. Rich accessibility support and internationalization features. | Maintains position as major choice for Linux desktop application development in 2025. GTK 4 introduction improves performance and modern UI capabilities. Continued adoption in open-source projects and Linux-specific applications. | LGPL | Official |