What are the differences between Class and Struct in C#?

Question

Aryan Kumar · Answer

In C#, classes and structs are both data types that can be used to create objects. However, there are some key differences between the two.

Classes

Classes are reference types. This means that when a class object is created, a reference to the object is stored on the heap.
Classes can be inherited from other classes. This allows you to create new classes that share the properties and methods of existing classes.
Classes can be virtual. This allows you to create objects that can be used polymorphically.
Classes can be sealed. This prevents other classes from inheriting from them.

Structs

Structs are value types. This means that when a struct object is created, the actual data for the object is stored on the stack.
Structs cannot be inherited from other structs.
Structs cannot be virtual.
Structs cannot be sealed.

Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between classes and structs:

Feature	Class	Struct
Type	Reference type	Value type
Storage	Heap	Stack
Inheritance	Can be inherited	Cannot be inherited
Polymorphism	Can be virtual	Cannot be virtual
Sealing	Can be sealed	Cannot be sealed

When to use classes

Classes are a good choice for data types that need to be inherited from other classes, or that need to be used polymorphically. For example, you might use a class to represent a user, or an animal.

When to use structs

Structs are a good choice for data types that are small and simple, or that need to be passed around by value. For example, you might use a struct to represent a point, or a color.

Ultimately, the best type of data type to use will depend on the specific requirements of the situation.

Rahul Roi · Answer

Differences between Class and Struct in C#

Class	Struct
Supports Inheritance	Does not support Inheritance
Class is Pass by reference (reference type)	The struct is Pass by Copy (Value type)
Members are private by default	Members are public by default
Good for larger complex objects	Good for Small isolated models
Can use waste collector for memory management	Cannot use Garbage collector and hence no Memory management

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What are the differences between Class and Struct in C#?

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Differences between Class and Struct in C#