What are some real-world examples of the decorator pattern?

What are some real-world examples of the decorator pattern?

The decorator pattern is used to add new functionality to an object without altering its structure. For example, in a coffee shop application, you can have a base coffee class and then use decorators to add features like milk, sugar, or whipped cream.

Can you give me another example?

Sure! In a graphical user interface, you might have a window class that can be decorated with scroll bars, borders, or other features to enhance its functionality without changing the original window class.

How does it differ from inheritance?

Inheritance creates a new class based on an existing class, while the decorator pattern allows you to add behavior to individual objects at runtime, promoting flexibility.

Are there any drawbacks to using the decorator pattern?

Yes, it can lead to a complex system of decorators that may be hard to manage and understand. It's important to use it judiciously.