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The repository pattern is often treated as a default in .NET data access, but it's not always the right choice. EF Core's DbContext already implements repository-like abstractions via DbSet, making an extra layer redundant for simple CRUD apps. Cases where the pattern adds unnecessary complexity include basic CRUD-only apps, small projects with few tables, performance-critical systems (risk of N+1 queries and over-fetching), microservices with minimal data needs, and reporting/analytics scenarios where raw SQL or stored procedures are more efficient. The pattern is genuinely useful for complex domain logic, multi-source aggregation, caching strategies, and unit testing in critical systems. The specification pattern is suggested as an alternative that provides reusable query logic without the overhead of a full repository.

When NOT to use the repository pattern in EF Core

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<p>When NOT to use the repository pattern in EF Core</p>

<p>I tend to always use it when dealing with EF Core, mostly as you say as it makes unit testing easier. But in some applications you probably are right it is overkill</p>
