C++ Templates vs Inheritance: Which to Use?

What are the main differences between C++ templates and inheritance?

C++ templates allow for generic programming, enabling code reuse with different data types, while inheritance is about creating a new class based on an existing one, promoting code organization and reuse.

When should I prefer templates over inheritance?

You should prefer templates when you need type flexibility and want to write generic algorithms. Inheritance is better for establishing a clear hierarchical relationship between classes.

Can you give an example of when to use each?

Sure! Use templates for a function that sorts any data type, while use inheritance for a class hierarchy like 'Animal' with subclasses 'Dog' and 'Cat'.

Are there any performance implications of using one over the other?

Yes, templates can lead to code bloat due to multiple instantiations, while inheritance can introduce overhead from virtual function calls. It depends on the use case.