> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.thesys.dev/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# C1Chat vs C1Component

> Whats the difference and when to choose what

We provide 2 primary methods to integrate **C1** within your application.

## tldr;

* Use `<C1Component>` when you want to **render UI from the C1 API** inside any app surface (dashboards, tools, internal apps).
* Use `<C1Component>` if you already have a text based chat interface and want to migrate to Generative UI. Check out the [migration guide](/guides/migrate-to-genui) on how to migrate easily.
* Use `<C1Chat>` when you want a **full conversational UI** (history, roles, avatars, message list) **plus** everything `<C1Component>` can render.

## Detailed Comparison

### C1Component

`<C1Component>` is the fundamental frontend component that renders **C1 DSL** into
a functional **micro-frontend**. It support streaming & actions and can be
used in a variety of applications (like dashboards, canvas, embedded widgets)
beyond chat.

### C1Chat

`<C1Chat>` is built on top of `<C1Component>` and besides being able to
render the **C1** responses it also includes abstractions to thread management,
persistence and a out-of-the-box chat experience.

### Comparison Matrix

| Capability                        | `<C1Component>`   | `<C1Chat>`         |
| --------------------------------- | ----------------- | ------------------ |
| Render C1 DSL → UI                | ✅                 | ✅                  |
| Streaming UI                      | ✅                 | ✅                  |
| Forms & actions                   | ✅                 | ✅                  |
| Message history (UI & state)      | ➖ (DIY)           | ✅ Built-in         |
| Roles (system/user/assistant)     | ➖ (via API)       | ✅ First-class      |
| Chat UI (bubbles, avatars, input) | ➖                 | ✅                  |
| Persistence helpers               | ➖                 | ✅ Guides available |
| Best for                          | Apps & dashboards | Chatbots & agents  |