Home/ Questions/Q 7411413
In Process

The Archive Base Latest Questions

Editorial Team
  • 0
Asked: 2026-05-29T06:22:58+00:00

What benefits has using std::reference_wrapper as template parameter of containers instead of raw pointers?

  • 0

What benefits has using std::reference_wrapper as template parameter of containers instead of raw pointers? That is std::vector<std::reference_wrapper<MyClass> > vs. std::vector<MyClass*>

I like forgetting about nulls and not having to use pointer syntax, but the verbosity of the types (i.e. vector<reference_wrapper<MyClass> >) plus having the call site use std::ref to wrap the actual reference makes me think it is not worth it.

I am referring to cases in which using std::shared_ptr or any other smart pointer is not an option.

Are there other benefits of using reference_wrapper or any other factors I am currently not taking into account? (I think my question applies to both C++11’s reference_wrapper and boost’s)

Share

Leave an answer

You must login to add an answer.

Need An Account,

1 Answer

  1. Editorial Team

    I don’t think there is any technical difference. Reference wrapper provides basic pointer functionality, including the ability to change the target dynamically.

    One benefit is that it demonstrates intent. It tells people who read the code that “whoever” has the variable, isn’t actually controlling its lifespan. The user hasn’t forgotten to delete or new anything, which some people may start to look for when they see pointer semantics.

    • 0