​
MCP Server Frameworks Comparison

The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is an open standard that standardizes how applications provide context to Large Language Models (LLMs). It follows a client-server architecture that enables AI models to safely access specific data and capabilities. MCP allows Hosts (like IDEs or AI tools) to communicate with Servers (lightweight programs exposing capabilities) via Clients, accessing local or remote data sources securely.

​
Quick Selection Guide

This guide helps you quickly choose a framework based on its primary strengths:
opengraph.githubassets

@modelcontextprotocol/sdk

GitHub Repo starsGitHub LicenseGitHub last commitNPM Downloads
opengraph.githubassets

Cloudflare agents

GitHub Repo starsGitHub LicenseGitHub last commitNPM Downloads
opengraph.githubassets

fastmcp

GitHub Repo starsGitHub LicenseGitHub last commitNPM Downloads
opengraph.githubassets

mcp-framework

GitHub Repo starsGitHub LicenseGitHub last commitNPM Downloads

​
Feature Comparison

Compare the frameworks side-by-side across various features.
Feature@modelcontextprotocol/sdkCloudflare agentsfastmcpmcp-framework
Primary GoalCore MCP ImplementationStateful Edge AI AgentsMCP Server w/ SessionsDX-focused MCP Framework
MCP ComplianceOfficial StandardHigh (Agent-focused)HighHigh (Uses official SDK)
ArchitectureLow-level PrimitivesActor Model (Workers)Session-centricConvention over Config
Transportsstdio, HTTP (SSE)HTTP (SSE), WebSocketsSSE, stdiostdio, SSE, HTTP Stream
State ManagementManualBuilt-in (Durable Objects)Session-basedManual/Per-Request
AuthenticationManualVia Cloudflare Access/OAuthBuilt-inBuilt-in (SSE)
Developer Experience (DX)FoundationalHigh (Integrated CF)High (Specific Features)High (CLI, Conventions)
CLI ToolingNonewranglerTesting utilitiesYes (mcp)
DeploymentLocal/Any ServerCloudflare WorkersLocal/Any ServerLocal/Any Server

​
Deployment Models: Local vs. Remote

Understand the trade-offs between running your MCP server locally or remotely.

​
Local MCP Servers

Run directly on the user’s machine, typically communicating via stdio.
Advantages
  • Direct Data Access: Easily access local files, databases, and system resources.
  • Low Latency: No network overhead for communication.
  • Enhanced Privacy: Sensitive data remains on the user’s device.
  • Simplified Security: Often bypasses complex remote authentication needs.
  • Offline Capability: Functions without an internet connection.
Disadvantages
  • Limited Scope: Only accessible on the machine where it’s installed.
  • Installation Burden: Requires setup on each user’s device.
  • Distribution Challenges: Harder to distribute and update compared to web services.
  • Scalability Limits: Bound by the resources of the local machine.
Primary Communication Method: stdio (Standard Input/Output) Best suited for: @modelcontextprotocol/sdk, fastmcp, mcp-framework

​
Framework Deep Dive

Explore the core philosophy, features, typical use cases, and code examples for each framework.

​
Overview & Philosophy

Understand the main goal and design principles behind each framework.
  • Goal: Provide the official, foundational TypeScript implementation of the MCP specification.
  • Philosophy: Offer low-level primitives (Server, Resource, Tool, Prompt) for maximum control and strict spec adherence. Does not impose structure beyond the MCP core.
  • Nature: A library/SDK, not a full framework. Forms the base for other frameworks like mcp-framework.

​
Key Features

Highlighting the standout features of each framework.
  • Spec Compliance: Full, official implementation of the MCP specification.
  • Core Primitives: Exports fundamental classes/interfaces (Server, Resource, Tool, Prompt).
  • Transport Flexibility: Supports stdio and HTTP/SSE.
  • Extensibility: Designed as a base for other frameworks or direct use.
  • Minimalist: No built-in session management, auto-discovery, or advanced features; requires manual implementation.

​
Code Examples

Illustrative examples of defining a simple “add” tool in each framework. 
import { Server } from "@modelcontextprotocol/sdk/server/index.js";
import { StdioServerTransport } from "@modelcontextprotocol/sdk/server/stdio.js";
import { z } from "zod";

const AddToolSchema = {
  name: "add",
  description: "Add two numbers together",
  parameters: z.object({
    a: z.number(),
    b: z.number(),
  }),
};

const server = new Server({ name: "sdk-example-server", version: "1.0.0" }, {
  capabilities: { tools: {} } 
});

server.setToolHandler(AddToolSchema, async (params) => {
  const { a, b } = params;
  const sum = a + b;
  return {
    content: [{ type: "text", text: String(sum) }]
  };
});

const transport = new StdioServerTransport();
await server.connect(transport);
console.log("SDK Server connected via stdio");

​
Best For

Summarizing the ideal scenarios for choosing each framework.
Best For:
  • Production Implementations: Where stability and official support are key.
  • Strict Compliance: Projects needing precise adherence to the MCP spec.
  • Framework Builders: As a foundation for creating higher-level MCP frameworks.
  • Maximum Control: When fine-grained control over server behavior is required.
  • Learning MCP: Understanding the core protocol mechanics.

​
Making Your Choice: Key Questions

Consider these factors when selecting your framework:
Remember, all these frameworks facilitate building MCP-compliant servers using TypeScript. The best choice depends on your specific project requirements, existing infrastructure, and team preferences. This flowchart provides a starting point; review the detailed features and documentation for your top candidates.

​
Further Resources

Official documentation and repositories for each framework.