An open API service indexing awesome lists of open source software.

https://github.com/shobhakartiwari/structure-vs-class-vs-actors-

difference between structure, class and actors
https://github.com/shobhakartiwari/structure-vs-class-vs-actors-

Last synced: 2 months ago
JSON representation

difference between structure, class and actors

Awesome Lists containing this project

README

        

# Struct vs. Class vs. Actor in Swift

Swift provides three main types for handling data: **Struct**, **Class**, and **Actor**. Each has unique characteristics and use cases, making it essential to choose the right one for your specific needs. Below is a detailed comparison.

---

## Tabular Comparison

| Feature | **Struct** | **Class** | **Actor** |
|-------------------|------------------------------------|-------------------------------------|---------------------------------------|
| **Type** | Value type | Reference type | Reference type |
| **Memory Allocation** | Stack | Heap | Heap |
| **Inheritance** | Not supported | Supported | Not supported |
| **Initialization** | Memberwise initializers | Custom initializers required | Custom initializers required |
| **Concurrency** | Not inherently thread-safe | Not inherently thread-safe | Inherently thread-safe |
| **Use Cases** | Simple objects, immutable data | Complex objects, mutable data | Concurrent programming, mutable data |

---

## Image Visualization

Below is an image that summarizes the differences:

![Struct vs. Class vs. Actor]([https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/6c6c321d-a270-4466-b727-d66102280b1a])

Screenshot 2024-12-03 at 2 17 03 PM

---

## Key Takeaways

- **Struct** is ideal for lightweight and immutable data.
- **Class** is suitable for complex objects and scenarios requiring inheritance.
- **Actor** is a powerful choice for handling concurrent and mutable data safely in asynchronous programming.

### When to Use What:
- Use **Struct** for performance benefits with value types.
- Opt for **Class** when inheritance or identity is required.
- Consider **Actor** for thread-safe code in concurrent environments.

For more details, refer to Swift documentation.