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

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

Unique pointers (unique_ptr) are exclusive ownership smart pointers, while shared pointers (shared_ptr) allow shared ownership.

Can you explain how memory management works with these pointers?

Sure! unique_ptr automatically deletes the object it owns when it goes out of scope, while shared_ptr uses reference counting.

When should I use unique_ptr over shared_ptr?

Use unique_ptr when you want sole ownership of an object, and shared_ptr when multiple parts of your program need access to the same object.

Are there any performance implications of using shared_ptr?

Yes, shared_ptr has overhead due to reference counting, which can impact performance compared to unique_ptr.