Which is more popular, Microsoft Agent Framework or Semantic Kernel?

Semantic Kernel has more GitHub stars (28,614 vs 13,883).

Which is more actively developed, Microsoft Agent Framework or Semantic Kernel?

Microsoft Agent Framework had more commits in the last 90 days (910 vs 56).

Should I use Microsoft Agent Framework or Semantic Kernel?

Compare their capabilities, limitations and "best for" notes above. Both are open source, so trying each on a small task is the fastest way to decide.

Microsoft Agent Framework vs Semantic Kernel

Side-by-side comparison of two AI agent tools

Microsoft Agent Frameworkopen-source

A framework for building, orchestrating and deploying AI agents and multi-agent workflows with support for Python and .NET.

Semantic Kernelopen-source

Integrate cutting-edge LLM technology quickly and easily into your apps

Metrics

	Microsoft Agent Framework	Semantic Kernel
Stars	13.9k	28.6k
Star velocity /mo	1.2k	166.6844919786096
Commits (90d)	910	56
Releases (6m)	10	10
Overall score	0.8076639330110338	0.6504666256577387

Pros

+Model-agnostic design supports multiple LLM providers including OpenAI, Azure OpenAI, Hugging Face, and local models
+Enterprise-ready with built-in observability, security features, and stable APIs for production deployments
+Multi-language support (Python, .NET, Java) with comprehensive agent orchestration and multi-agent system capabilities

Cons

-Requires significant programming knowledge and understanding of AI agent concepts
-Complex setup and configuration for advanced multi-agent workflows
-Learning curve for mastering the framework's extensive feature set and architectural patterns

Use Cases

•Building enterprise chatbots and conversational AI applications with reliable LLM integration
•Creating complex multi-agent systems where specialized AI agents collaborate on business processes
•Developing AI applications that need flexibility to switch between different LLM providers and deployment environments

View Microsoft Agent Framework Details View Semantic Kernel Details

FAQ

Which is more popular, Microsoft Agent Framework or Semantic Kernel?: Semantic Kernel has more GitHub stars (28,614 vs 13,883).
Which is more actively developed, Microsoft Agent Framework or Semantic Kernel?: Microsoft Agent Framework had more commits in the last 90 days (910 vs 56).
Should I use Microsoft Agent Framework or Semantic Kernel?: Compare their capabilities, limitations and "best for" notes above. Both are open source, so trying each on a small task is the fastest way to decide.