Class vs Struct in C++: Differences, Syntax & Usage

Class vs struct in C++:

INTRODUCTION

In C++, both classes and structures are powerful tools for defining custom data types that group related data and functions. Although they share many characteristics, such as supporting member functions and enabling object-oriented programming features, they differ mainly in default access control and typical usage. Structures usually emphasize simple data grouping with public access, while classes provide greater control and encapsulation, making them suitable for complex abstractions. Understanding these nuances helps programmers write more organized and efficient code tailored to their project needs.

Class vs struct in C++:

 Class and Structure are similar in many ways yet still have some important differences in C++

What is Structure in C++?

Structure is a user-defined data type. Structure lets you create a new data type that can store various datatypes inside it. The keyword is struct. In a structure, each member can store different data type. 

Syntax: 

        struct structure_name {

          // member_1;

          // member_2;

         } ;

What is Class in C++?

class is a user-defined data type that can uses both data members and member functions. The keyword is class. Data are called Attributes within a class and member functions are called as methods.

Syntax: 

        class class_name {

          // attributes_1;

          // attributes_2;

          //  method_1;

          //  method_2;

         } ;

Similarities Between Structure and Class in C++:

   1.  Data-Type Creation Mechanism:

        – Both struct and class serve as blueprints to define user-defined data types.

   2.Support for Member Functions:

         – Both struct and class in C++ are able to include member functions.

   3. Memory Layout and Compilation:

           – There’s no difference in memory layout or performance between a struct and a class with identical contents.

   4.Static Members and Functions:

           – Structs and classes both support static data members and static member functions, allowing them to share values across all instances or define utility functions tied to the type rather than any instance.

    5.Template Usability:

            – You can define both structs and classes as templates. They support generic programming through the same template syntax and usage.

Differences between Struct and class in C++:

Description

struct

class

Default Access modifier

members are public

members are private

Memory Allocation

Stack Segment.

heap segment.

Nature

Type value

Type reference

constructor and destructor

It can only have a parameterized constructor

It can have all type of constructor and destructor

Null values

Not possible

Possible

Purpose

Grouping of data

Abstraction of data and inheritance is done further.

Usage of data

Used for a small amount of data

Used for large amount of data