Which kind of pointer do I use when?

Question

Ok, so the last time I wrote C++ for a living, std::auto_ptr was all the std lib had available, and boost::shared_ptr was all the rage. I never rea

Answer 1

Cases of when to use unique_ptr:

• Factory methods
• Members that are pointers (pimpl included)
• Storing pointers in stl containters (to avoid moves)
• Use of large local dynamic objects

Cases of when to use shared_ptr:

• Sharing objects across threads
• Sharing objects in general

Cases of when to use weak_ptr:

• Large map that acts as a general reference (ex. a map of all open sockets)

Feel free to edit and add more