Author
Home > Technology > What is the Difference Between Objective C and Swift?

Guilherme Mazui

•4 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Objective C and Swift?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

Objective-C and Swift are two programming languages used for iOS app development. They have some key differences:

  1. Syntax: Objective-C has a syntax filled with square brackets and semicolons, making it difficult for developers to focus on the core of the code. Swift, on the other hand, offers a cleaner, more concise syntax that resembles plain English, making it easier to understand and learn.
  2. File Structure: In Objective-C, the interface is separated from the implementation, with the interface living in the header file (Filename.h) and the implementation in the "*.m" file. In Swift, the interface and implementation are both in the same file.
  3. Typing: Objective-C uses a mix of static and dynamic typing, while Swift has type inference, allowing the compiler to automatically infer the type of a variable based on its value. This means that you don't have to explicitly declare the type of a variable, reducing the likelihood of type mismatches.
  4. Memory Management: Swift has better memory management features than Objective-C, which can help improve performance. It uses lazy initialization, reducing memory usage since unused variables do not initialize.
  5. Performance: Swift is generally faster than Objective-C, with performance improvements ranging from 2.6x faster than Objective-C and 8.4x faster than Python.
  6. Popularity: Swift has gained popularity among developers since its release in 2014, and it is now the primary language used for iOS app development. Objective-C, on the other hand, is considered outdated by many developers.

In summary, Swift is a more modern, concise, and efficient language compared to Objective-C, making it the preferred choice for iOS app development in most cases.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Objective C and Swift?
  • Comparative Table: Objective C vs Swift

    • Comparative Table: Objective C vs Swift

    Here is a table comparing the differences between Objective-C and Swift:

    Feature Objective-C Swift
    Speed of Performance Slower Faster (2.6x times more rapid)
    String Manipulation More complex (e.g., mutable vs. immutable strings) Simpler (var/let for string mutability, easy concatenation)
    Control Flow Older syntax and less readable Simplified syntax, easier to read
    Type Inference Requires explicit type declarations Infers types automatically, reduces code clutter
    Tuples Not supported Supported
    Optionals Not supported Supported, simplifies error handling
    Functional Programming Features Limited (blocks used instead) Higher-order functions, functions as values, nested functions, closures, anonymous functions
    Enums Limited functionality Supports lines, characters, integers, and fractional numbers, more readable and less lengthy code
    Switch Statements Complex and less readable Supports more features, easier to implement and understand
    Learning Curve Steeper curve due to older syntax and limited modern features Easier to learn due to simpler syntax and modern features

    In summary, Swift offers several advantages over Objective-C, including faster performance, simpler string manipulation, improved control flow, and support for modern programming features. Swift's syntax is more unified and easier to learn, making it a more attractive choice for new developers.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.