What are the differences between std::async and std::thread in C++?

What are the differences between std::async and std::thread in C++?

std::async is used for asynchronous operations, while std::thread is for creating threads directly. std::async can return a future, allowing you to retrieve the result later.

Can you explain how std::async manages thread execution?

std::async may run the task in a new thread or use a thread from a pool, depending on the launch policy. This can optimize resource usage.

When should I prefer std::async over std::thread?

Use std::async when you want to run tasks asynchronously and need a future to get results. It's simpler for managing task lifetimes.

Are there any performance differences between them?

Yes, std::async can be more efficient for short-lived tasks due to its management of threads, while std::thread gives you more control.