In 2025, software development for various devices and platforms has evolved significantly. Various tools, frameworks, and add-ons cut time-to-market and simplify processes. Two key components in this area are SDKs (Software Development Kits) and APIs (Application Programming Interfaces). If you're researching what an SDK vs. API is, you're probably looking to understand how each can help you build or enhance your applications.
Understanding these differences is essential for any developer, business owner, or product manager who wants to build, integrate, or scale a digital product. In this article, we'll explain the difference between SDKs and APIs, discuss real-world examples, and clarify when to choose an SDK, when to opt for an API, and how they can work together seamlessly.
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TL;DR:
- An SDK is a collection of various software development tools (libraries, debuggers, code snippets, etc.) that help create products faster.
- An API helps access a third-party application without knowing how it works in detail.
- Both API and SDK help speed up the development process.
- An SDK has a broader scope and can include multiple APIs.
- Banuba's SDKs offer video editing, filters, virtual backgrounds, virtual try-on, and other features on Web, Mobile, Desktop, and Unity.
What is an SDK?
SDK, or Software Development Kit, is a collection of tools, libraries, and APIs used to develop software for a specific platform or integrate certain features.
Typical SDK Components
We’ve already covered what an SDK is, but I feel that we should still highlight the key components typical for an average SDK.
- Compiler → Translates from one programming language into another or into machine code — essential for building applications to run natively on a specific platform;
- Code Samples → Provide concrete examples of working features or entire mini-apps, showing how to implement best practices;
- Code Libraries or Frameworks → Offer reusable snippets or functions for tasks you’ll face frequently (like user authentication or 3D rendering);
- Testing and Analytics Tools → Let you see how your app performs under various conditions, catch performance bottlenecks, and analyze user behavior;
- Documentation → Instructions, quick-start guides, and references, saving you countless hours of guesswork;
- Debuggers → Simplify finding and fixing errors, enabling you to push higher-quality code to production.
Typically, an SDK includes at least one API to facilitate communication between software components or services.
Architecture of Banuba Face AR SDK
What is an SDK Used For?
- Language-Specific Programming. For instance, the Java Development Kit (JDK) streamlines Java app creation with a compiler, standard libraries, and more;
- Analytics. Tools like Firebase or Google Analytics SDKs gather event data, letting developers see how users interact with an app;
- Monetization. Ad networks (e.g. ones from Google or Meta) provide SDKs to make it easier to embed ads, enabling developers to generate revenue;
- Specialized Features. AR and computer vision, such as Banuba’s AR SDK, offer advanced capabilities (face tracking or real-time effects) packaged in a toolkit.
What is an example of an SDK?
If you’re building an iOS app, for example, you might use Apple’s iOS SDK; for a Windows desktop solution, you might tap into Microsoft’s .NET SDK; or for AR-driven projects, you could rely on Banuba’s specialized AR SDK with face tracking and real-time filters and effects.
What is an API?
API, or Application Programming Interface, defines how different software systems or services communicate, acting as a contract between them. For instance, a web application needing geolocation can call an external mapping API, which specifies how to request data (like "latitude" or "place name") and how to return results (such as JSON or XML).
Sometimes this term is also used for a more flexible version of an SDK. For example, Banuba's Video Editor API allows deeper customization than the regular product, but some features aren't available out-of-the-box.
Differences between an API, a Library, and an SDK
Many developers mix up these three concepts and consider them interchangeable. Let’s break down the differences between an API, a library, and an SDK.
An API defines the rules for software communication but doesn’t include direct code implementation.
A library is a collection of reusable code you can import into your application. It provides specific functions, classes, or methods for tasks like database interactions or mathematical computations. Unlike just definitions, a library includes the actual code you can invoke through its API.
An API outlines capabilities, a library provides the tools to execute them, and an SDK offers a broader range, usually containing multiple libraries and APIs.
How an API Works
- You (the application) initiate a request through an endpoint, typically a URL like https://api.maps.com/locate?city=NewYork.
- The API call reaches a server, and the server interprets the request.
- The server executes the task and retrieves or processes data, possibly referencing a database or another service.
- A response is returned, and the API formats the response as agreed (usually JSON or XML) for your application to interpret and display the needed info (e.g., map coordinates, store locations).
API Use Cases
APIs surround us in every digital solution. Let's review the most common use cases we interact with daily.
- Payment Gateways. Integrating services like PayPal, Stripe, or Braintree to handle transactions and manage billing securely.
- Social Media Interactions. Embedding authentication flows (e.g., “Log in with Facebook”) or fetching social data (posts, followers) from platforms like Twitter or LinkedIn.
- Maps and Geolocation. Using Google Maps or Mapbox APIs for location tracking, route planning, or embedding interactive maps in applications.
- Cloud Storage & File Management. Integrating with AWS S3, Google Cloud Storage, or Dropbox for secure file uploads, downloads, and metadata management.
- Analytics and Metrics. Gathering usage statistics and performance metrics with APIs from Google Analytics, Mixpanel, or custom analytics platforms.
- Weather and Environmental Data. Providing localized forecasts, air quality indicators, or severe weather alerts via APIs like OpenWeatherMap or AccuWeather.
SDK vs API: Key Differences
So, what are the differences between an SDK and API? Although they can overlap, have complementary roles (many SDKs contain or wrap APIs), and save you time and money, they serve different purposes and offer distinct advantages.
APIs make it straightforward to integrate external services, such as payment gateways, social media features, or mapping solutions, without having to reinvent the wheel each time. They typically function over networks (like RESTful or GraphQL endpoints) or through language bindings (for example, a Python library providing an API for data manipulation).
An SDK is like a well-equipped workshop that allows you to focus on your application's core logic while utilizing platform-specific features without needing to understand the underlying details.
In practice, an SDK frequently uses an API behind the scenes. The SDK’s libraries make those API calls for you while offering extra conveniences such as authentication flows, ready-made components, and debugging tools. An API is often enough if you only need to call a particular service (like a weather data provider or a payment service). But if you’re building a complex platform-specific application (a feature-rich e-commerce mobile app), you’ll likely benefit from a virtual try-on SDK’s toolset, which goes beyond a single set of endpoints.
When to Use an SDK vs an API
Choosing between an SDK and an API (or both) depends on your development goals, application complexity, and desired control over the final product. Here’s a brief look at SDK vs. API examples and when to opt for each.
If your project demands building a feature from the ground up while handling platform-specific details, an SDK can be a lifesaver, as it provides the resources you need to develop more sophisticated functionalities in less time.
For advances advanced video capabilities, consider specialized toolkits like the Video Editor SDK. To enhance shopping experiences with AR, explore AR-centric solutions such as Virtual Try-On, the Face AR SDK, and the AR Mirror. If you’re creating a mobile game, utilize a platform-focused SDK for engines like Unity or Unreal to handle complex elements such as rendering, physics, and asset management.
On the other hand, an API is a great choice when you want to integrate third-party services or external data into an existing application without the overhead that comes with a full development kit. APIs simplify third-party integrations, such as global payments (Stripe, PayPal) or real-time data retrieval (airline schedules, hotel availability), where it’s more efficient to tap into a partner’s infrastructure rather than build your own.
When reviewing SDK vs. API pros & cons, consider your business needs and software functionality. Choose an SDK for more control, advanced features, and built-in workflows, or an API for lighter integrations and specific services or data. Assess your project scope and resources to decide if you need an SDK, an API, or a combination of both.
SDKs and APIs Working Together
SDKs and APIs are often compared, but they can also work together to create seamless software solutions. By integrating both, you can use high-level tools while still maintaining the flexibility to add external features as your application evolves. Let’s explore use cases where SDK and API integration can enhance your application.
Virtual Try-On for Mobile E-Commerce
A Virtual Try-On SDK enables 3D rendering and user interaction for apps like Sephora that offer augmented reality cosmetics previews. An e-commerce API (like Shopify or BigCommerce) retrieves product details, pricing, and inventory. Together, they create an interactive experience where users can virtually try items and receive real-time stock and shipping updates.
Face Filters for Social Media Apps
For social media platforms that rely on fun, engaging content, a Face AR SDK can track facial movements in real-time, applying filters and effects that boost user interaction. But you might also rely on APIs for extra needs. Analytics APIs provide metrics on filter usage, while messaging APIs (like Twilio) enable user sharing and communication.
Video Editing for Content Creation Tools
Apps like CapCut benefit from Video Editing SDKs that offer features such as trimming, transitions, and visual effects. Additionally, APIs like YouTube’s Data API and Vimeo’s upload API enable easy exporting and publishing of user-generated videos across platforms.
Sometimes, SDKs vs. APIs pros and cons can play in your favor — complement each other, offering developers enhanced capabilities, faster iteration, and flexibility to adapt to evolving project needs.
Why Choose Banuba SDKs?
Banuba’s SDKs offer advanced AR functionalities and real-time video editing powered by AI. They enrich social media with animated filters and enhance eCommerce apps with virtual try-ons, providing end-to-end solutions to engage users and boost business results. Here are key reasons developers and product owners choose Banuba SDKs, supported by success stories.
Time and Cost Savings
Banuba SDKs can significantly reduce development time and costs by eliminating the need to create AR and face-tracking technology from the ground up. This allows you to accelerate time-to-market and improve ROI by directing developer resources towards other functionalities. For example, the Video Editor SDK integration helped Weat deliver their app to the market two times faster compared to building everything from scratch.
Weat - a video app for foodies
Ease of SDK Integration
The Banuba team provides a thorough step-by-step guide and lifetime support for their SDKs, ensuring a straightforward integration. An active community is also on hand to help developers troubleshoot and innovate, allowing for seamless integration of immersive AR experiences without a dedicated team.
Patented Technologies
With over 30 patents in areas such as face-tracking, emotion detection, and makeup transferring, Banuba delivers cutting-edge technologies. This patent portfolio underscores Banuba’s commitment to R&D, allowing your product to leverage robust and sophisticated AR features backed by industry-leading innovations.
Increased ROI
Banuba’s interactive solutions significantly boost user engagement and sales while reducing return rates. Product owners report a 200% increase in engagement and a 60% decrease in returns. For Océane, the add-to-cart rate skyrocketed to 32% compared to the 3% market average after integrating Banuba’s Virtual Try-On. For a Brazilian beauty startup, the digital try-on helped earn over $900,000 in just 4 hours during the pre-launch party. These results lead to quicker and higher returns on investment.
Virtual try-on in Boca Rosa's online store
Cross-Platform Support
Banuba SDKs support iOS, Android, Unity, Windows, and the web, enabling immersive AR experiences across various platforms and devices, including smart mirrors. Regular updates maintain compatibility with new devices and operating systems, ensuring a high-quality user experience.
Now, that you know what an SDK vs. API is, you can leverage both to enhance your development process through seamless integration. You can try Banuba’s SDKs for free to see if it suits your application needs.
