String vs. string in C#: When Should I Use Each?

The difference between String and string in C#: When to use which?

In C#, programmers encounter two similar data types for representing text: string and String. Although they appear to be interchangeable, subtle differences set them apart.

Origin and technical details

Technically, there is no substantial difference between string and String. String is an alias for the System.String class. This means that they represent the same type of object. This is similar to the relationship between int and System.Int32.

Usage Guide

Although they are technically equivalent, the guidelines recommend choosing specific usage based on context:

• string: Use string when you are using a generic text object or variable. For example:

  string name = "John Smith";

• String: Keep System.String when you explicitly need to reference the String class. For example, when using static methods or properties:

  String greeting = String.Format("Hello {0}!", name);

Microsoft’s coding standards

Microsoft's coding style guide prefers C#-specific aliases, including string. This approach emphasizes using types directly in the language, thereby improving clarity and consistency.

Evolution of the Guide

Historically, guidance allowed the use of either string or String depending on the context. However, static code analysis tools like StyleCop now enforce the use of aliases, which reflects Microsoft's current style conventions.

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