How do I avoid rehashing overhead with std::deque in performance-sensitive code?

In performance-sensitive C++ code, using `std::deque` can lead to rehashing overhead if not managed properly, especially when modifying the container's size frequently. To avoid unnecessary reallocation, consider the following techniques:

  • Reserve Space: Although `std::deque` does not provide a reserve function like `std::vector`, you can manage the size of the deque effectively by pre-initializing it or using specific allocation strategies.
  • Minimize Size Changes: Avoid frequent pushes and pops on both ends of the deque. Instead, batch your operations to make fewer adjustments to the size.
  • Use Stable Iterators: Iterators in a `std::deque` can be invalidated during size changes; ensure you are aware of your iterator's stability to prevent performance hits.

Here is an example of how to use `std::deque` in a performance-sensitive context:

std::deque myDeque; // Preload data into the deque avoiding rehashing for (int i = 0; i < 1000; ++i) { myDeque.push_back(i); } // Batch processing to minimize size changes for (auto it = myDeque.begin(); it != myDeque.end(); ++it) { // Perform some operations } // Efficiently access elements int firstElement = myDeque.front(); int lastElement = myDeque.back();

C++ std::deque performance optimization rehashing overhead batch processing