Multidimensional vs. Jagged Arrays in C#: When Should You Choose Which?

C# multi -dimensional array and sawtooth array: performance and applicability analysis

The multidimensional array in C# uses the

grammar definition, and the array of the array (usually called the "sawtooth array") is defined as

. Both structures provide a method for storing data in a rectangular arrangement, but their performance characteristics and applicable applications are different. double[,] double[][] Performance is relatively

In terms of speed, array array (sawtooth array) is usually better than multi -dimensional array. This is because the element in the access tooth array involves direct access to array elements, and the elements in the multi -dimensional array need to call a specific method. With the increase of the dimensions of the array, this difference will become more obvious.

The applicability of a specific application

Multi -dimensional array:

Provide simple and intuitive grammar. Scenes that are very suitable to know the dimension and boundaries in advance.

can be used to represent data that has a fixed grid structure.
• The array of the array:

Provide greater flexibility to allow dynamic adjustment of the size and irregular dimension.

When the array is sparse or unknown in advance, it may be more efficient in memory use and performance.

It is suitable for representing tree structures, maps and other complex data structures.

sample code and IL countercligation
• The following code fragments illustrate the performance differences between the multidimensional array and the sawtooth array:

After compiling the generated assembly into IL code, it can be found that the operation of the jagged array is implemented with simple IL instructions, and the same operation of the multidimensional array involves a slower method call. Conclusion

In many cases, jagged arrays have better performance and flexibility than multi -dimensional arrays. However, the multidimensional array provides more concise grammar and may be more desirable when processing data with a fixed structure. Developers should choose the appropriate array type according to the specific requirements of the application.

static void SetElementAt(int[][] array, int i, int j, int value)
{
    array[i][j] = value;
}

static void SetElementAt(int[,] array, int i, int j, int value)
{
    array[i, j] = value;
}

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