Question

This question is related to, but not quite the same as, this question.

Are there any benefits to using std::vector<char> instead of std::string to hold arbitrary binary data, aside from readability-related issues?

i.e. Are there any tasks which are easier/more efficient/better to perform with a vector compared to a string?

Answer 1

Yes, vector<char> indeed does have more capabilities over string.

Unlike string, vector<char> is guaranteed to preserve iterators, references, etc. during a swap operation. See: May std::vector make use of small buffer optimization?