Is it a good practice to always use smart pointers?

Question

I find smart pointers to be a lot more comfortable than raw pointers. So is it a good idea to always use smart pointers? ( Please note that I am from Java b

Answer 1

Usually you shouldn't use pointers (smart or otherwise) if you don't need them. Better make local variables, class members, vector elements and similar items normal objects instead of pointers to objects. (Since you come from Java you're probably tempted allocate everything with new, which is not recommended.)

This approach ("RAII") saves you from worrying about pointers most of the time.

When you have to use pointers it depends on the situation and why exactly you need pointers, but usually smart pointers can be used. It might not be always (in bold) be the best option, but this depends on the specific situation.