C vs. C++: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 26, 2023
C is a procedural programming language, while C++ is both procedural and object-oriented.
Key Differences
C is a foundational programming language that was developed in the early 1970s. C++ came later, in the 1980s, as an extension to C.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
While C provides a structure for procedural programming, C++ offers additional features that support object-oriented programming and generic programming.
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Oct 24, 2023
In C, data and functions are separate. In contrast, C++ introduces the concept of classes where data and functions can be encapsulated together.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Memory management in C is done using functions like malloc() and free(). C++ provides new and delete operators for memory allocation and deallocation.
Harlon Moss
Oct 24, 2023
C relies heavily on libraries for operations, while C++ not only has libraries but also built-in functions and classes in its Standard Template Library (STL).
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Memory Management
Uses malloc() and free()
Uses new and delete along with malloc() & free()
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Oct 24, 2023
Library Support
Standard C libraries
Both Standard C and Standard Template Library (STL)
Janet White
Oct 24, 2023
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C and C++ Definitions
C
C is known for its performance and efficiency.
High-performance applications often use C for critical parts.
Sara Rehman
Oct 24, 2023
C++
C++ has a rich Standard Template Library (STL).
The C++ STL provides ready-to-use templates for various data structures and algorithms.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
C
C is a procedural programming language.
I learned C before diving into other languages.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 24, 2023
C++
C++ is an extension of C with object-oriented features.
After mastering C, I moved on to C++ to learn about classes and objects.
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Oct 24, 2023
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C++
C++ introduced the concept of classes and inheritance.
In C++, you can create a class hierarchy using inheritance.
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Oct 24, 2023
C
C was developed at Bell Labs in the 1970s.
Many modern languages, including C++, have roots in C.
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Oct 24, 2023
C++
C++ allows for operator and function overloading.
In C++, you can have multiple functions with the same name but different parameters.
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Oct 24, 2023
C++
C++ supports both procedural and object-oriented programming.
C++ offers the flexibility of using both paradigms.
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Oct 24, 2023
FAQs
Can C++ run C code?
Generally, C++ can run C code, but there are certain differences and caveats.
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Oct 24, 2023
What is C?
C is a procedural programming language developed in the early 1970s.
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Oct 24, 2023
Do C and C++ use the same compiler?
They can use separate compilers, but many C++ compilers can compile C code.
Janet White
Oct 24, 2023
Is C harder to learn than C++?
C is simpler in terms of features, but C++ introduces more concepts due to its object-oriented nature.
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Oct 24, 2023
Which is older, C or C++?
C is older, developed in the 1970s, while C++ came in the 1980s.
Sara Rehman
Oct 24, 2023
Is it beneficial to learn C before C++?
It can be helpful, as understanding C provides a foundation for C++ concepts.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 24, 2023
Can C support object-oriented programming?
C is fundamentally procedural; however, object-oriented concepts can be implemented manually with structures.
Harlon Moss
Oct 24, 2023
Why is C++ called an "extension" of C?
Because C++ incorporates all of C's features and adds new ones, particularly for object-oriented programming.
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Oct 24, 2023
What kind of applications are built using C?
Operating systems, embedded systems, and performance-critical applications are often written in C.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 24, 2023
What is function overloading in C++?
It allows multiple functions with the same name but different parameters in C++.
Sara Rehman
Oct 24, 2023
How is C++ related to C?
C++ is an extension of C, introducing object-oriented and generic programming features.
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Oct 24, 2023
Why is C known for its performance?
C compiles to machine code, making it run close to the hardware level.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Which is more popular today, C or C++?
Both remain popular for different applications, but C++ is more prevalent in areas like game development.
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Oct 24, 2023
Are there object-oriented features in C?
Not natively, but programmers can emulate some object-oriented features using structures.
Sara Rehman
Oct 24, 2023
How does C++ handle data encapsulation?
C++ uses classes to encapsulate data and associated functions.
Harlon Moss
Oct 24, 2023
What is the STL in C++?
STL stands for Standard Template Library, a collection of template classes in C++.
Sara Rehman
Oct 24, 2023
Can C programs utilize the C++ Standard Template Library (STL)?
No, the STL is specific to C++ and requires its features for implementation.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
What's a significant addition in C++ compared to C?
C++ introduced classes, enabling object-oriented programming.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Are C and C++ used in modern software development?
Yes, both languages are widely used, especially in performance-critical applications.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
What's the difference in memory management between C and C++?
C uses malloc() and free(), while C++ introduces new and delete but can also use C methods.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 24, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
