LangChain vs Semantic Kernel(2026)
LangChain is better for teams that need largest ecosystem. Semantic Kernel is the stronger choice if best .net support. LangChain is open-source (from $0) and Semantic Kernel is open-source (from $0).
Full feature breakdown, pricing details, and pros & cons below.
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LangChain
LangChain is the most widely used framework for building LLM applications with chains, agents, memory, and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) — available in Python and JavaScript.
Starting at $0
Visit LangChainSemantic Kernel
Semantic Kernel is Microsoft's open-source AI SDK that enables developers to integrate LLMs into .NET, Python, and Java applications with plugins, memory, and multi-agent orchestration.
Starting at $0
Visit Semantic KernelHow Do LangChain and Semantic Kernel Compare on Features?
| Feature | LangChain | Semantic Kernel |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | open-source | open-source |
| Starting price | $0 | $0 |
| Chains and agents | ✓ | — |
| RAG support | ✓ | — |
| Memory management | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tool calling | ✓ | — |
| LangSmith (observability) | ✓ | — |
| Vector store integrations | ✓ | — |
| Python + JS | ✓ | — |
| Plugin architecture | — | ✓ |
| Multi-agent orchestration | — | ✓ |
| .NET/Python/Java | — | ✓ |
| Azure OpenAI integration | — | ✓ |
| Process framework | — | ✓ |
| Planners | — | ✓ |
LangChain Pros and Cons vs Semantic Kernel
LangChain
Semantic Kernel
Should You Use LangChain or Semantic Kernel?
Choose LangChain if…
- •Largest ecosystem
- •Best documentation
- •Rapid prototyping
Choose Semantic Kernel if…
- •Best .NET support
- •Enterprise-grade (Microsoft)
- •Strong Azure integration