What are the advantages of using std::unordered_map in C++?

What are the advantages of using std::unordered_map in C++?

The std::unordered_map offers several advantages, such as average constant time complexity for insertions, deletions, and lookups, thanks to its hash table implementation.

How does it compare to std::map?

Unlike std::map, which is implemented as a balanced tree and has logarithmic time complexity, std::unordered_map provides faster access on average due to its hash-based structure.

Are there any downsides to using std::unordered_map?

Yes, one downside is that it uses more memory than std::map due to the underlying hash table and may have worse performance in cases of hash collisions.

When should I choose std::unordered_map over std::map?

Choose std::unordered_map when you need fast access and don't require the elements to be sorted. It's ideal for scenarios where performance is critical.