What are some advanced alternatives to std::vector for 2D data in C++?

What are some advanced alternatives to std::vector for 2D data in C++?

You might consider using std::array for fixed-size 2D arrays, or std::deque for dynamic resizing. Another option is using a custom class that manages a 2D array.

Can you explain the benefits of using std::array over std::vector?

Sure! std::array has a fixed size, which can lead to better performance due to less overhead. It also allows for stack allocation, which can be faster than heap allocation used by std::vector.

What about using a custom class? When would that be beneficial?

A custom class can be beneficial when you need specific functionality, like bounds checking, or if you want to implement additional features like resizing or specific memory management.

Are there any libraries that provide advanced 2D data structures?

Yes, libraries like Eigen and Armadillo offer advanced data structures and functionalities for linear algebra, which can be very useful for 2D data manipulation.