What is the difference between class and struct in C#?
What is the difference between class and struct in C#?
Ask by ICSM Computer
Updated 18 Mar 2025
The C# uses class and struct for object definition yet implements different approaches regarding how memory works and inheritance mechanisms operate together with behavioral features.
Objects from classes exist as reference types in the heap memory when created thus providing variables with references to their locations. A class-based allocation stores references so that several variables can point to the same object while all references see all changes performed to the object. A class beneficially inherits functionality through base classes because it supports inheritance. Default constructors along with destructors exist in classes while polymorphism and interface implementation features contribute to their capacity for complex object-oriented programming and data structures.
The storage location for structs in the memory system is stack memory except for such cases where structs exist inside a class structure. The assignment of struct variables creates complete data duplication which results in independent variable data and protects both variables from each others' modifications. The data structure remains lightweight due to its usage with small simple datasets when inheritance is not necessary. The inheritance features of classes are missing in struct types while implementation of interfaces remains possible with them. All struct fields receive automatic default initialization since the constructs lack their own default parameter less constructor methods.
The distinction between classes and structs relates to their intended purpose: classes serve as objects to achieve reference-based capabilities and inheritance and polymorphism whereas structs optimize performance by working with small imponent objects needing value-based functionality and minimal memory usage. Structs provide better performance and memory efficiency than classes therefore they are optimal choices for optimization needs yet classes remain the best solution for bigger flexible object-oriented applications.