PCF or Canvas Components? Choose the Right Power Apps Extension
Diesen Beitrag auf Deutsch lesen
Canvas components offer fast no-code UI reuse, while PCF supports advanced controls but adds development, performance and governance responsibilities.
TL;DR
Canvas components deliver fast no-code UI inside canvas apps but cannot use advanced third-party JavaScript, complex SVG, or high-density editable grids. PCF controls use TypeScript, HTML, CSS, Power Platform CLI, and manifest-defined inputs and outputs, can span model-driven apps, canvas apps, and Power Pages, but require ownership, repository, build, and Dataverse solution deployment.
Original on M365 FM Podcast. Read the original · suggested by Mirko Peters
This is our own summary, not a republication or full translation.
Governance takeaway
- Makers: Use canvas components for repeated canvas-app UI when no-code speed and easy modification matter; avoid stacked workarounds that degrade performance and create maintenance problems.
- Admins/CoE: Require designated ownership, documentation, source repository, build, and Dataverse solution deployment for PCF controls, and prevent duplicate or poorly optimized components.
- Leadership/Business: Prefer native controls or canvas components when they deliver about ninety percent of the need, because maintenance savings can outweigh pixel-perfect custom engineering.
Frequently asked questions
Can canvas components work in model-driven Power Apps?
No. Canvas components are exclusive to canvas apps, while custom controls for model-driven apps or Power Pages require PCF code components.
Which languages and tools are needed to build a PCF control?
PCF development requires TypeScript or JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and the Microsoft Power Platform CLI for scaffolding and packaging.
Why does a PCF control need a designated owner?
PCF controls require a build step, source repository, and Dataverse solution deployment, so missing ownership or documentation can create an unmaintainable black box.