What is the difference between static_cast and Implicit_cast?

Question

What is implicit_cast? when should I prefer implicit_cast rather than static_cast?

Answer 1

Prefer implcit_cast if it is enough in your situation. implicit_cast is less powerful and safer than static_cast.

For example, downcasting from a base pointer to a derived pointer is possible with static_cast but not with implicit_cast. The other way around is possible with both casts. Then, when casting from a base to a derived class, use implicit_cast, because it keeps you safe if you confuse both classes.

Also keep in mind that implicit_cast is often not needed. Using no cast at all works most of the time when implicit_cast does, that's where 'implicit' comes from. implicit_cast is only needed in special circumstances in which the type of an expression must be exactly controlled, to avoid an overload, for example.