What is the difference between the Facade and Adapter Pattern?

Question

I\'ve been reading both definitions and they seem quite the same. Could anyone point out what are their differences?

Thanks

Answer 1

Honestly, many patterns could be implemented the same way programmatically -- the difference is in intent.

The Adapter design pattern is meant to 'translate' the interface of one or more classes into an interface that the client expects to use -- the adapter would translate the calls to the expected interface into the actual interface the wrapped classes use.

The Facade pattern is used when a simpler interface is wanted (and again, could be implemented the same way by wrapping the offending classes.) You wouldn't say you're using a facade when the existing interface is incompatible, just when you need to make it more readable, less poorly-designed, etc.