vector vs string for binary data

Question

Which is a better c++ container for holding and accessing binary data?

std::vector

or

std::string


        

Answer 1

Is one more efficient than the other?

This is the wrong question.

Is one a more 'correct' usage?

This is the correct question.
It depends. How is the data being used? If you are going to use the data in a string like fashon then you should opt for std::string as using a std::vector may confuse subsequent maintainers. If on the other hand most of the data manipulation looks like plain maths or vector like then a std::vector is more appropriate.

Answer 2

You should prefer std::vector over std::string. In common cases both solutions can be almost equivalent, but std::strings are designed specifically for strings and string manipulation and that is not your intended use.

Answer 3

Compare this 2 and choose yourself which is more specific for you. Both are very robust, working with STL algorithms ... Choose yourself wich is more effective for your task