WPF User Controls vs Custom Controls

Question

I am trying to creating a combobox with checkboxes on each line to allow multiple selecting. Would this be better as a User Control or Custom Control?

I haven't created a control before so just looking for a little advice on what direction I need to head.

Thanks.

Answer 1

UserControl (Composition)

• Composes multiple existing controls into a reusable "group"
• Consists of a XAML and a code behind file
• Cannot be styled/templated
• Derives from UserControl

CustomControl (Extending an existing control)

• Extends an existing control with additional features
• Consists of a code file and a default style in Themes/Generic.xaml
• Can be styled/templated
• The best approach to build a control library

In your case, I think UserControl would be better; here's an example for you:

<CheckBox Content="Property" IsChecked="{Binding Path=SomeProperty}" />
<ComboBox IsEnabled="{Binding Path=Enabled}" />

Answer 2

I would say use a datatemplate.

Like this: Looking for a WPF ComboBox with checkboxes

It's a lot more simple than trying to create your own control. :)