C++ List vs Vector Performance

What are the performance differences between C++ lists and vectors?

C++ lists are implemented as doubly linked lists, while vectors are dynamic arrays. Lists allow for efficient insertions and deletions, but vectors provide better cache performance and faster access times.

In what scenarios should I prefer using a vector over a list?

You should prefer vectors when you need fast random access and when the size of the container is known in advance. They are also more memory efficient for small to medium-sized collections.

Are there any specific performance benchmarks comparing the two?

Yes, benchmarks typically show that vectors outperform lists in terms of access speed and memory usage, especially for large datasets. However, lists excel in scenarios with frequent insertions and deletions.

Can you give an example of when a list would be more beneficial?

Certainly! If you're implementing a queue where elements are frequently added and removed from both ends, a list would be more beneficial due to its efficient insertion and deletion capabilities.