C++ Performance: Templates vs Inheritance

What are the performance differences between using templates and inheritance in C++?

Templates generally offer better performance than inheritance in C++ because they allow for compile-time polymorphism, reducing overhead.

Can you explain why templates are faster?

Templates are instantiated at compile time, which means the compiler can optimize the code more effectively, eliminating virtual function calls.

Are there any downsides to using templates?

Yes, templates can lead to code bloat since each instantiation creates a new copy of the code, which can increase binary size.

When should I prefer inheritance over templates?

Inheritance is preferable when you need runtime polymorphism or when working with a class hierarchy that requires shared behavior.