What's the difference between ViewFlipper and ViewSwitcher

Question

They both inherits ViewAnimator. I know that ViewSwitcher allows only two views, while ViewFlipper allows more. But why did Android create ViewSwitcher if it is just a ViewFlipper with 2 views? Is there any other differences? What condition will make using one superior than the other?

Answer 1

From what I can tell, ViewSwitcher is used if you want to between two view like you said. Useful if you have 2 Views that you have to go back and forth fairly regularly. And the class implements a ViewFactory if you wish to use it.

However, ViewFlipper can be used if you want to periodically change the views. Say like an automated flipping book of some sort. Though a custom-adapter gallery is much better at this.

And yep, that's all. They really aren't that much more useful than the ViewAnimator. Why Android development makes anything is really a mystery to me.

I would normally just prefer using a ViewAnimator because it gives you more freedom and thus flexibility in how you design. But if you want features like the ViewFactory and you only got 2 views use the ViewSwitcher. If you want to be able to periodically change views use ViewFlipper. If you don't need either use a ViewAnimator.