The application of wireline formation tester ( WFT) gradually extends in oil-field with the constant improvement of instrument functions． Applications of WFT in oil and gas exploration in Tarim Oilfield，such as formation pressure measurement，are described，and testing efficiency between drill stem testing ( DST) and WFT are compared，especially comprised of PVT sampling，hydrocarbon composition estimation，fluid characterization analysis and formation permeability analysis． The test results between WFT and traditional DST show that their functions can be complementary． The influence factors of WFT and the suitable applying conditions for WFT and DST are also discussed．