Pros and Cons of different string types in C++

Question

Sorry to start another of those unanswerable questions on SO, but I'm just curious as to the pros and cons of all the different string types in C++. My particular question is between MFC's CStrings and std::string (since I'm doing Windows only software), but this would extend to any of the string formats in C++. What do you all thing is the best string type to use in C++ and why?

UPDATE: I actually found a duplicate question. Thanks to those who already answered. Please direct any new responses to this other question: http://stackoverflow.com/questions/133364/how-do-you-handle-strings-in-c

Answer 1

std::string

1. It's part of the STL
2. It's portable.
3. Used correctly it can be as efficient as c-strings
4. It's safer than c-strings.

Answer 2

Most of the problems with c++ string types come from one or another string type requiring too large a memory overhead. That said, it also can become onerous if you have to convert from one string type to another. If you are building a large app, I suggest having a policy on which strings to use.

Answer 3

When in Rome, do as the Romans do. If you're using MFC, use CString because the classes are all optimized for it. Anything else, use std::string, because it's the standard and you'll find the experience useful in other contexts.

Answer 4

std::string can be manipulated by boost string algorithms in addition to the ones in STL. For me the support libraries for std::string just beat MFC hands down.

Answer 5

To summarize...

std::string Pros:

• Portable
• STL & Boost Algorithm Support
• Safer than CStrings

std::string Cons:

• Conversion to CString for MFC could be slower

CString Pros:

• MFC functions optimized for CString

CString Cons:

• Not Portable
• No Boost or STL Algorithm Support