What are the differences between unique_ptr and shared_ptr in C++?

What are the differences between unique_ptr and shared_ptr in C++?

In C++, unique_ptr is a smart pointer that owns a dynamically allocated object exclusively, while shared_ptr allows multiple pointers to share ownership of the same object.

When should I use unique_ptr instead of shared_ptr?

You should use unique_ptr when you want sole ownership of an object and don't need to share it, which can improve performance and reduce overhead.

Can you give me an example of when to use shared_ptr?

Sure! Use shared_ptr when you have multiple owners of an object, like in a scenario where several components need to access the same resource.

Are there any downsides to using shared_ptr?

Yes, shared_ptr has some overhead due to reference counting and can lead to circular references if not managed properly.