What is the difference between Abstract Factory and Factory Method?

What is the difference between Abstract Factory and Factory Method?

The Abstract Factory pattern provides an interface for creating families of related or dependent objects without specifying their concrete classes. In contrast, the Factory Method pattern defines an interface for creating an object but allows subclasses to alter the type of objects that will be created.

Can you give me an example of each?

Sure! In the Abstract Factory pattern, you might have a GUI toolkit that creates buttons and text fields for different operating systems. The Factory Method could be a class that creates a specific type of button, like a WindowsButton or MacButton, based on the operating system.

When should I use one over the other?

Use Abstract Factory when you need to create multiple related objects that belong to a family. Use Factory Method when you want to delegate the instantiation process to subclasses.

Are there any drawbacks to using these patterns?

Yes, both patterns can introduce complexity and make the code harder to understand. They can also lead to a proliferation of classes, which may complicate maintenance.