How can you choose between prototype-based and class-based programming?

1 What is prototype-based programming?

Prototype-based programming is a style of object-oriented programming that does not use classes to define objects. Instead, it uses prototypes, which are existing objects that can be cloned, modified, or extended. Prototypes act as templates for creating new objects, and they can inherit properties and methods from other prototypes. This allows for more flexibility and dynamism, as objects can be created and changed at runtime without following a fixed structure. Some examples of prototype-based languages are JavaScript, Lua, and Self.

2 What is class-based programming?

Class-based programming is a style of object-oriented programming that uses classes to define objects. Classes are blueprints that specify the attributes and behaviors of objects that belong to them. Classes can be organized into hierarchies, where subclasses inherit properties and methods from superclasses. This allows for more abstraction and encapsulation, as objects can be grouped and categorized according to their common features. Some examples of class-based languages are Java, C++, and Python.

3 What are the pros and cons of prototype-based programming?

Prototype-based programming has its advantages and disadvantages compared to class-based programming. For instance, it is more expressive and intuitive, as objects can be created and modified directly without relying on classes. Additionally, it is more flexible and adaptable, as objects can inherit from multiple prototypes and change their behavior at runtime. Furthermore, it is more efficient and concise, as objects can share properties and methods without creating unnecessary copies. On the other hand, it is less structured and consistent, as objects can have different properties and methods depending on how they are created and modified. Moreover, it is less predictable and reliable, as objects can have unexpected or conflicting behaviors due to prototype chains and delegation. Finally, it is less familiar and standardized, as most mainstream languages use class-based programming and have more established conventions and tools.

4 What are the pros and cons of class-based programming?

Class-based programming has its advantages and disadvantages when compared to prototype-based programming. On the plus side, it is organized, coherent, predictable, reliable, familiar and standardized. However, it is also less expressive and intuitive, less flexible and adaptable, and less efficient and concise. With class-based programming, objects have a clear and fixed structure defined by classes. This means that objects have consistent and well-defined behaviors inherited from classes. As most mainstream languages use class-based programming, there are more established conventions and tools. Yet this also means that objects have to be created and modified through classes which can be cumbersome and restrictive. Additionally, objects have to follow a single inheritance hierarchy and cannot change their behavior at runtime. Finally, objects have to create their own copies of properties and methods inherited from classes which can be inefficient.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?