How do smart pointers in C++11 affect performance in multithreading?

How do smart pointers in C++11 affect performance in multithreading?

Smart pointers in C++11, like std::shared_ptr and std::unique_ptr, manage memory automatically. In multithreading, std::shared_ptr can introduce overhead due to reference counting, while std::unique_ptr is more efficient as it has no shared ownership.

What are the trade-offs between using std::shared_ptr and std::unique_ptr?

The main trade-off is ownership. std::shared_ptr allows multiple pointers to share ownership of an object, which is convenient but incurs overhead. std::unique_ptr provides exclusive ownership, making it faster and more memory-efficient, but you can't share it.

Are there scenarios where using raw pointers is better?

Yes, raw pointers can be more efficient in scenarios where you need maximum performance and are sure about the object's lifetime. However, they lack the safety features of smart pointers, so they should be used cautiously.

How can I measure the performance impact of smart pointers in my application?

You can use profiling tools to measure memory usage and execution time. Compare the performance of your application with raw pointers versus smart pointers under similar conditions to see the impact.