Choosing a compiler

Out of these 3 (Dev-C++, Visual C++, and Borland) which one should I choose?

Lets say I wanted to make a windows application (not a console), would I be able to do it in Dev-C++ and/or Borland?

How about if I wanted to make a game (3d using OpenGL), could I make it using Dev-C++ or Borland? (I know you can with Visual C++, I think most commerical 3d games are made in VC++)

Use VC++, it has the better environment for creating programs, and definetly has the best debugging. It may seem overwhelming the first time you use it, but after a few days it's easy. However, if you're like me and may need to recompile a program when you find an error in it on the road, you should download the free command line borland compiler, it fits onto a floppy (i think), and it definetly fits onto a cd (unlike visual c++ would) the best thing is that if it's say your buddies computer, and he doesn't want some 30 mg monster (let alone a couple hundred meg as in VC++) sitting on his hard drive, borland command line is small and installs pretty much in the background of things, doesn't affect windows at all. But I think that it's only good for compiling dos programs though...so, i'd go and also download bloodshed dev c++, which is bigger than borland command line, but, you can develop windows programs with it...im not sure borland command line may be able to do it though, im not sure. Anyhow, i'd get VC++ for at home or work or whatever, and the command line from borland for on the road, good luck.

I would say stick with VC++ and Dev-C++. Use VC++ for DirectX and such, and Dev-C++ for OpenGL.

Dev-C++ is an IDE (Integrated Development Environment) not a compiler. The compiler it uses is MinGW, a Windows port of GCC (which lots of UNIX people use ). GCC is a high quality compiler and it's FREE. Plus, you can do Win32 programming, OpenGL, DirectX, SDL, and all the other stuff you want to with it (sometimes you need to convert the Windows libraries, but there are tools available for that).

VC++ is one of the best IDEs (and compilers) around once you get used to it. You can't go wrong with it but it does cost a bit of money. Academic prices are pretty cheap though, I got Visual Studio Pro for $25 through my school (and there are always the other ways to get things). I started with Borland and I remember hating Visual Studio at first, but it grows on you.

I'm waiting to see how Dev-C++ 5 turns out. It's still beta but it's looking very good so far. I'd say give it try and if you don't like it, switch to VC++.

It might do you some good to even just download MinGW (www.mingw.org) and play with the command line tools first, then you really get to understand the compiling process and appreciate using an IDE, not to mention be able to use it much better.

the first disadvantage of using msvc++ and borland builder is all the files that you need to disribute your progam. use mingw/dev-c++ and just give out your executable and data which is a lot less hassle and things. ive heard that dev-c++ uses a very old version of mingw(gcc) ... maybe theyve changed taht in the new version. the most important factor is the speed of the executable. if youre coding a game, speed is a very big factor. ive not checked out how fast each compilers output is yet ... im sure other ppl have.

I found this: http://dada.perl.it/shootout/

flikm,

the first disadvantage of using msvc++ and borland builder is all the files that you need to disribute your progam.

the above is not true, all programs you ever build with msvs can be run with just the executable. It mostly depends on what you are compiling (debug vs release) and the other compile options. As for borland i don't know, the command line version spits out an executable, along with a few other files like an assembly language version of your source, etc. None of those are required for the program to run.

Chose not the compiler that your neighbour raises to the sky in praise. Chose not the compiler hated by some and beloved by others. Chose the compiler that gives your mind freedom and inspiration. Try your compilers, and chose the one that makes your work easiest. The difference of the compilers is almost none. Its not the compiler that makes a good program, its the programmer. Remember that.

But the question you really ask is what IDE to use. The same way of thinking as above can be used for IDEs. Obviouslly choose the right tool for the job. I use several IDEs and many different compilers. Be flexible.

Originally posted by Waldo2k2
flikm,

the above is not true, all programs you ever build with msvs can be run with just the executable. It mostly depends on what you are compiling (debug vs release) and the other compile options. As for borland i don't know, the command line version spits out an executable, along with a few other files like an assembly language version of your source, etc. None of those are required for the program to run.

i meant the dll's .. not the asm source. try running your program without msvc60.dll or whatever.