Variable Types and Best Practice?

[OneThing]

Hi All,

Quick Question. I understand the in PowerApps we can use the following variable types:

• Global Variable (Set()) that can be used anywhere in the app. 
• Context Variable(UpdateContext()) Local to the Screen
• Collection (Collect()) Table Records used globally.

My Main Question is what is the benefits of using a Context Variable and passing it to another screen using Navigate() over using a global variable in the first place? Is there a performance gain?

At the moment I seem to using Global for all except for a temporary or counter value. I'm not sure if there is even a reason not to use Global for everything. Is there any notion of a best practice for variables?

Thanks,
Nicky

[v-xida-msft · Accepted solution]

Hi @OneThing,

I think your thought is proper. Using a Global variable (using Set() function) has a better performance than Context variable (using UpdateContext() function) within a canvas app.

It is a performance tip for canvas app that, to pass the app’s state from one screen to another, create or modify a global variable value by using the Set function instead of by using the Navigate and UpdateContext) functions.

Please check the following article for more details:

https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/powerapps/maker/canvas-apps/performance-tips#use-global-variables

Best regards,

Kris

[OneThing]

Hi Kris,

Thanks for the feedback and especially the link. I've never seen this page, and there are a few questions I've had regarding performance, that this has given me more information on.

Many Thanks,
Nicky