What is the difference between classes and structs in programming?

What is the difference between classes and structs in programming?

Classes and structs are both used to create complex data types, but they have some key differences. Classes are reference types, meaning they are stored on the heap and can be inherited. Structs are value types, stored on the stack, and do not support inheritance.

Can you explain what you mean by reference types and value types?

Sure! Reference types store a reference to the actual data, so multiple variables can point to the same object. Value types, on the other hand, store the actual data directly, so each variable has its own copy.

Are there any performance implications between using classes and structs?

Yes, generally, structs can be more efficient for small data types due to their stack allocation, while classes may incur overhead due to heap allocation and garbage collection.

When should I use a class instead of a struct?

You should use a class when you need features like inheritance, polymorphism, or when you want to share data between different parts of your program. Use structs for simple data types that don't require these features.