Cursor.Current vs. this.Cursor in .NET: Which Property Should I Use to Change the Cursor?

Cursor Properties in .NET: Cursor.Current vs. this.Cursor

In .NET applications, programmers can modify the cursor shape using two different properties: Cursor.Current and this.Cursor. While they may appear similar, understanding their distinct behaviors is crucial.

Cursor.Current

The Cursor.Current property allows for immediate modification of the cursor shape, bypassing the standard message-based mechanism used by controls. However, this change is temporary, as subsequent mouse movements will reset the cursor based on the control's Cursor property.

this.Cursor

The this.Cursor property represents the cursor associated with a specific control, such as a WinForm. Modifying this property changes the cursor shape for that particular control only. Unlike Cursor.Current, changes made to this property persist even after mouse movements.

Distinction

The key difference between Cursor.Current and this.Cursor lies in the scope and persistence of their effects. Cursor.Current offers immediate but temporary modification, while this.Cursor alters the cursor shape for the specified control on a more permanent basis.

CodeRush Example

CodeRush's usage of Cursor.Current in a "Wait Cursor" block is an example of applying a temporary change to the cursor shape. This change is intended to indicate that an operation is in progress but does not override the control's default cursor settings.

When to Use

• Use this.Cursor: If you want to change the cursor shape for a specific control and maintain that change.
• Use Cursor.Current: If you need a temporary change to the cursor shape, such as displaying a wait cursor during long operations or during mouse events.

Handling Pitfalls

• Remember that both properties affect the cursor's shape. Using both in conjunction may lead to unintended results.
• If changing the Cursor.Current property does not affect the cursor, ensure that the active window receives WM_SETCURSOR messages.
• To use a wait cursor effectively, consider using a class like the HourGlass helper shown in the answer, which combines Cursor.Current with WM_SETCURSOR messaging to prevent locking cursors.

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