Use libraries compiled with visual studio in an application compiled by g++ (mingw)

Question

Is it possible to use a library compiled by visual studio in an application compiled by g++ (mingw) on Windows?

Answer 1

• If the library is written in C++ and exposes a C++ interface: no (because the name-mangling differs between g++ and VC++).

• If the library is a static library written in C (or with an extern "C" interface): yes, but certain caveats apply.

• If the library is a DLL with a C interface: yes, but you'll have to create your own import library.

Answer 2

Also see the discussion for question QT/mingw32 undefined reference errors… unable to link a .lib

Answer 3

From a technical standpoint, there isn't any reason you shouldn't be able to (it's all x86 after all). As for in practice, there are a number of tools for converting between library and object file formats. If you can find the correct one and deal with any naming, calling convention and structure layout differences (I don't know that you will or won't need to deal with any of that) you should be good.