C++: Variadic Templates vs Overloading

What are the main differences between variadic templates and function overloading in C++?

Variadic templates allow functions to accept an arbitrary number of arguments, while function overloading lets you define multiple functions with the same name but different parameter types or counts.

Can you give me an example of when to use variadic templates?

Sure! Variadic templates are great for creating functions like printf that can take any number of arguments. For instance, you can define a function that sums any number of integers.

What about performance? Is one method faster than the other?

In general, variadic templates can be more efficient because they are resolved at compile time, while function overloading may involve more runtime checks. However, the difference is often negligible.

Are there any limitations to using variadic templates?

Yes, variadic templates can be more complex to implement and understand, especially for beginners. They also require careful handling of types to avoid errors.