juniorASP.NET Web API
What is ControllerBase vs Controller in Web API?
Updated Apr 28, 2026
Short answer
ControllerBase is for APIs, Controller includes views.
Deep explanation
ControllerBase is lightweight for APIs, while Controller includes view support.
Real-world example
APIs use ControllerBase.
Common mistakes
- Using Controller unnecessarily.
Follow-up questions
- Why ControllerBase?
- When use Controller?