Associative vs. Numerical Arrays

jonskinny12

I'm pretty new to PHP and from what I've read, Associative Arrays seem to be more popular that Numerical Arrays. That could just be the bias from the specific sources I've read, but I was wondering what you all think. I come from a programming background and I'm used to numerical arrays. What are the advantages and disadvantages of both?

I don't want this to become an argument or a thread where people are posting to try to prove their point. I just want to know what you prefer and why. No one word replies, give me a reason.

Rodney_H_

In my opinion... it really depends on what you are using the array for. I use both often. It is easier to write code using numerically indexed arrays, but associative arrays have their place and are valuable for particular situations.

:-)

Kudose

I don't have a preference. I just used what ever is best at the time.

thorpe

dito, whatever is required. depends where the arrays are comming from and where there going to.

justsomeone

I have a slight preference for numeric arrays as being handier for general purpose use, but that's it. Associative arrays are way better than numeric ones in some situations.

For instance, I always read database rows into an asociative array, so that my code is protected from changes in table layout. - "Name" column may not always be third in the row.

Also, for tricky code/arrays, using associative arrays can make it easier to read the code.

Weedpacket

Ditto. It's like asking "which do you prefer: kitchens or bathrooms?"

Jason_Batten

Weedpacket wrote:
Ditto. It's like asking "which do you prefer: kitchens or bathrooms?"

If only you could eat in the shower :rolleyes:

laserlight

It depends on the situation.

"which do you prefer: kitchens or bathrooms?"

Bedrooms. zzz....

Kudose

laserlight wrote:
Bedrooms. zzz....

Anyroom. :evilgrin:

Jason_Batten

Kudose wrote:
Anyroom. :evilgrin:

Who needs a room, in a bush'll do :evilgrin: :o

Kudose

lol

goldbug

Shampoo is better! I go on first and CLEEEEAN the hair!

dalecosp

NetNerd85 wrote:
Who needs a room, in a bush'll do :evilgrin: :o

Who needs a bush?

Except Tuesdays and Friday mornings, when the secretary is here....

dalecosp

Oh, and as to the original question. Surely there's a reason that PHP returns both types (from an SQL query, for example) by default.

And, little Billy^{H^{H^{H^{H^Hgoldbug:}}}} "Conditioner is better! I leave the hair silky and smooth!"

Or, as we say over in BSD-land: I'll take my bikeshed in flame red, please ... :rolleyes: