CrewAI vs Microsoft Agent Framework 1.0
Which one should you pick? Here's the full breakdown.
CrewAI
Python framework for building multi-agent systems with role-based agents, tasks, and sequential or hierarchical processes
Microsoft Agent Framework 1.0
Microsoft's MIT-licensed open-source agent orchestration framework -- GA on 2026-04-03. Merges Semantic Kernel and AutoGen into a single SDK. Python and .NET. Native MCP and A2A protocol support. Connectors for Foundry, Azure OpenAI, OpenAI, Claude, Bedrock, Gemini, Ollama
| Category | CrewAI | Microsoft Agent Framework 1.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | 7.5 | 6.0 |
| Output Quality | 8.0 | 8.5 |
| Value | 8.5 | 10.0 |
| Features | 8.0 | 9.0 |
| Overall | 8.0 | 8.4 |
Pricing Comparison
| Feature | CrewAI | Microsoft Agent Framework 1.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Free Tier | Yes | Yes |
| Starting Price | $0 | $0 |
Which Should You Pick?
Pick CrewAI if...
- ✓Easier to use (7.5 vs 6)
Python developers building multi-agent content, research, or analysis pipelines with clear role separation. Teams that want a code-first framework rather than an orchestrator GUI. Also the right pick if your workflow fits 'Researcher -> Writer -> Reviewer' style patterns.
Visit CrewAIPick Microsoft Agent Framework 1.0 if...
- ✓Better value for money (10/10)
- ✓More features (9 vs 8)
Enterprise developers on .NET or mixed Python + .NET stacks who want an MIT-licensed agent orchestration framework with real enterprise credibility. Also good for Azure Foundry customers who want first-class native integration. Teams migrating from Semantic Kernel or AutoGen should plan the move to Microsoft Agent Framework 1.0 now rather than later.
Visit Microsoft Agent Framework 1.0Our Verdict
Microsoft Agent Framework 1.0 edges out CrewAI with a 8.4 vs 8.0 overall score. Both are solid picks, but Microsoft Agent Framework 1.0 has the advantage in output quality.