C++: std::string vs std::wstring

What is the difference between std::string and std::wstring in C++?

std::string is used for storing narrow character strings (usually UTF-8), while std::wstring is for wide character strings (UTF-16 or UTF-32).

When should I use std::wstring instead of std::string?

Use std::wstring when you need to handle internationalization or characters that require more than one byte, like certain Asian characters.

Are there performance differences between the two?

Yes, std::wstring can be slower due to larger character sizes and potential memory overhead, but it depends on the use case.

Can I convert between std::string and std::wstring?

Yes, you can convert between them using functions like mbstowcs for std::string to std::wstring and wcstombs for the reverse.