Values Types vs Reference Types (.Net)
Values Types vs Reference Types
Full Transcript:
What is the difference between value types and reference types? If you are passing a large volume of data from one function to another, which type should you use – value type or reference type? This is a question I recently posed to my audience. Stick around till the end of this video to find out the answers.
So, what exactly are value types and reference types in C# or VB.NET?
Value types are the types that contain their own data in the memory. On the other hand, reference types are pointers to memory locations that hold the data. Value types store data on the stack, which is a limited and valuable space. Reference types, however, store data on the managed heap.
Examples of value types include numeric types, boolean, and date. Structures in C# and VB.NET are also examples of value types. Structures are similar to classes but have some differences and are considered value types. Integers are another example of value types.
On the other hand, reference types include strings and arrays. They store pointers to locations that hold data. Classes, interfaces, delegates, and custom types created by developers are also examples of reference types.
Now, when it comes to passing a large volume of data from one function to another, it becomes clear that you should use reference types. By using reference types, you are not copying the huge volume of data. Instead, you are sending references, which is more efficient.
Thanks for watching this video. If you found it helpful, please like, share, and subscribe to this channel for more informative content.