Task.Start(), Task.Run(), and Task.Factory.StartNew(): Which Method Should I Use?

Detailed explanation of the usage of Task.Start(), Task.Run() and Task.Factory.StartNew() in Task Parallel Library (TPL)

The

Task Parallel Library (TPL) provides multiple methods for creating and launching tasks, including Task.Start(), Task.Run(), and Task.Factory.StartNew(). Although they are both used to perform asynchronous operations, there are subtle differences in usage.

Task.Start(): An outdated method

Task.Start() is an older approach that requires explicit creation of the Task object before starting the task. It allows specifying additional options via the TaskCreationOptions parameter. However, it is recommended to use Task.Run() and Task.Factory.StartNew() instead.

Task.Run(): Simplified options

Task.Run() is a shorthand method that internally uses Task.Factory.StartNew() with default parameters. It is designed for simple scenarios that do not require custom task options. Unlike Task.Start(), it does not require the Task object to be created before starting.

Task.Factory.StartNew(): Versatile choice

Task.Factory.StartNew() is the most common method. It provides options for customizing task creation, such as specifying TaskScheduler, CancellationToken, and TaskCreationOptions. This allows fine-grained control over task execution.

Choose the appropriate method

• For simple scenarios, use Task.Run() if the default settings are sufficient.
• Use TaskScheduler when you need custom task options (such as setting Task.Factory.StartNew() or controlling thread affinity).
• Use Task.Start() should be avoided unless there is a specific need for advanced task customization.

Example usage

The following code snippet illustrates the use of these methods:

// Task.Start()
var task = new Task(() => Console.WriteLine("Task started."));
task.Start();

// Task.Run()
Task.Run(() => Console.WriteLine("Task started."));

// Task.Factory.StartNew()
var task = Task.Factory.StartNew(
    () => Console.WriteLine("Task started."), 
    TaskCreationOptions.PreferFairness);

Conclusion

While Task.Start(), Task.Run(), and Task.Factory.StartNew() have similar functionality, their usage should be based on the specific needs of your application. Task.Run() is suitable for most common scenarios, while Task.Factory.StartNew() offers advanced customization options. Due to its deprecated nature, using Task.Start() is generally not recommended.

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