Difference Between C and C++
Although C and C++ share syntax and low-level features, they are quite different in their approach and capabilities. C is procedural, while C++ is a multi-paradigm language that supports both procedural and object-oriented programming.
What is C?
C is a procedural programming language developed in the early 1970s by Dennis Ritchie. It is used for system-level programming, including operating systems, drivers, and embedded systems. It follows a top-down approach and provides direct access to memory, making it fast and efficient.
What is C++?
C++ is an extension of C developed by Bjarne Stroustrup in the 1980s. It supports both procedural and object-oriented programming (OOP) paradigms. C++ adds features like classes, objects, inheritance, polymorphism, encapsulation which help in organizing and reusing code better. It follows a bottom-up approach and is widely used in software development.
Real-life Analogy:
If C is like a basic calculator, C++ is like a scientific calculator with advanced features like history, formulas, and memory — making complex tasks easier and reusable.
Example Code: C vs C++
C Program:
#include <stdio.h>
int main() {
printf("Hello from C!");
return 0;
}C++ Program:
#include <iostream>
using namespace std;
int main() {
cout << "Hello from C++!";
return 0;
}Output (Both):
Hello from C!
Hello from C++!
Tabular: C vs C++
| Feature | C | C++ |
|---|---|---|
| Programming Paradigm | Procedural | Object-Oriented + Procedural |
| Approach | Top-down | Bottom-up |
| Encapsulation | Not supported | Supported via classes and objects |
| Data Security | Less secure (no data hiding) | More secure (supports abstraction & encapsulation) |
| Code Reusability | Limited; requires more duplication | Supports code reuse through inheritance |
| Function Overloading | Not supported | Supported |
| Standard Input/Output | printf(), scanf() | cin, cout |
| Use of Classes & Objects | Not available | Core concept |
| Namespace | Not supported | Supported |
| STL (Standard Template Library) | Not available | Available |
| Use Case | System programming, OS development | Software, game, app, and system development |
| Memory Allocation | Uses malloc(), calloc(), free() |
Uses new and delete operators |
| File Extension | .c | .cpp |
Summary:
- C is best suited for low-level programming and operating systems.
- C++ adds OOP features, making it more suitable for large-scale software development.
- Both languages are foundational and still used in modern programming.
- C++ provides better abstraction, code reusability, and maintainability.