What are the differences between generics and templates?

What are the differences between generics and templates?

Generics and templates are both programming constructs that allow for code reusability, but they differ in their implementation and usage. Generics are primarily used in languages like Java and C#, while templates are a feature of C++. Would you like to know more about how each one works?

Yes, please explain how generics work.

Generics allow you to define classes, interfaces, and methods with a placeholder for the data type. This means you can create a single class or method that works with different data types without losing type safety. For example, in Java, you can create a generic list that can hold any type of object.

And how do templates work in C++?

Templates in C++ are similar to generics but are more powerful. They allow you to define functions and classes with type parameters, which are resolved at compile time. This means you can create highly optimized code that can work with any data type, including user-defined types.

Are there any performance differences between the two?

Yes, there can be performance differences. Templates are resolved at compile time, which can lead to faster execution since the compiler generates optimized code. Generics, on the other hand, may introduce some overhead due to type erasure in languages like Java. However, the actual performance can vary based on the specific use case.