C++11 Performance: Async vs Thread

What are the main differences between async and thread in C++11?

In C++11, std::async allows you to run tasks asynchronously, while std::thread creates a new thread for execution. Async is more high-level and can manage thread pooling, while threads give you more control over execution.

Which one is more efficient for CPU-bound tasks?

For CPU-bound tasks, using std::thread can be more efficient as it allows you to manage threads directly. However, std::async can also be efficient if it utilizes a thread pool.

Are there any scenarios where async is preferred over threads?

Yes, std::async is preferred when you want to simplify code and avoid manual thread management, especially for I/O-bound tasks.

Can you give an example of using async in C++11?

Sure! Here's a simple example:

#include <future>
#include <iostream>

int compute() {
    return 42;
}

int main() {
    std::future<int> result = std::async(compute);
    std::cout << "Result: " << result.get() << std::endl;
}