c++stlvectorcapacity

std::vector capacity after copying


I looked through documentation but could not find a specific answer. Is it implementation dependent?


Solution

  • All you're guaranteed is that:

    1. The vector has enough capacity to store its elements. (Obviously.)
    2. The vector won't get a new capacity until it's current capacity is full.*

    So how much extra or little an implementation wants to put is up to the implementation. I think most will make capacity match size, when copying, but it cannot lower capacity. (Because of number 2 above; reallocating while there's enough room is not allowed.)

    * Mostly. See Charles' comments below.