What are endpoint filters, and how are they different from MVC filters?

Endpoint filters vs MVC filters in ASP.NET Core

Compare minimal API endpoint filters and MVC filters by context, scope, and use case.

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TL;DR

Endpoint filters run before and after minimal API handlers and can inspect handler arguments or the returned result. MVC filters run at controller-specific stages such as authorization, resource, action, exception, and result execution. I use the filter type that belongs to the endpoint model already in use. If a concern applies to the whole HTTP pipeline rather than selected handlers or actions, middleware is usually the clearer boundary.

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Why this matters
Endpoint filters wrap minimal API handlers, while MVC filters participate in the controller pipeline. Their contexts and lifecycle hooks differ even when both are used for focused cross-cutting behavior.
Endpoint filters run before and after minimal API handlers and can inspect handler arguments or the returned result. MVC filters run at controller-specific stages such as authorization, resource, action, exception, and result execution. I use the filter type that belongs to the endpoint model already in use. If a concern applies to the whole HTTP pipeline rather than selected handlers or actions, middleware is usually the clearer boundary.
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A route group can attach an endpoint filter that validates a convention or records handler-specific timing for every endpoint in that group. A controller action filter can inspect action arguments and action metadata, while a result filter can work with MVC result execution. The contexts are not interchangeable, and neither filter model should become a second application layer. I keep filters small, deterministic, and explicit about whether they can short-circuit the request or transform a result.

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Using MVC filter assumptions in minimal APIs
Using filters for behavior that belongs in middleware
Hiding business rules in filters
Returning inconsistent errors from filters
Forgetting to test filter behavior

What are endpoint filters, and how are they different from MVC filters?

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