New Compiler

Is Visual C++ 2008 Express Edition good for C++ code?

Elysia uses it, and has recommended it. I am still using the 2005 edition, in which the compiler is reasonably standards compliant and the IDE is not bad.

What do you mean by 'good for C++ code' ? The whole Visual Studio suite is quite a reference in programming IMHO.

Sure, it's a good IDE for writing C++ apps.
There's not much different between 2005 and 2008 for C++, but since the Express edition is free, you're free to go for it.

>Is Visual C++ 2008 Express Edition good for C++ code?
Yes. However, you won't notice much difference between 2005 and 2008 if all you're using is standard C++.

I'd also recommend visual studio express versions, free and easy to get into. If you're using anything other than standard C++/Microsoft libraries it's only a matter of adding the files to your project and you can make a template to make it easier later on. I have only been using the visual C# version for windows forms, but visual C++ is just as good as a lot of free compilers.

Not to mention Visual Studio is usually aimed at professional developers, but they've chosen to make the Express edition free, and it comes with a lot of goodies from the real, more expensive versions too.

And say what you will about the difficulty of the MSDN reference and help, there's a lot of resources on their dev network. I almost neglected that but they have some good vids and info on how to use their stuff.

Originally Posted by indigo0086

And say what you will about the difficulty of the MSDN reference and help, there's a lot of resources on their dev network. I almost neglected that but they have some good vids and info on how to use their stuff.

It's only difficult at first because you need a bit of knowledge and you need to know the terminology of C++ programming to understand it. When you get that down it's not that hard to find whatever you're looking for =)

I find the new online MSDN library kind of annoying when looking for things. I'm glad I still have a copy of the old MSDN app from the pre .NET days. It's not up to date, but searching & bookmarking is a lot easier.

Originally Posted by Desolation

It's only difficult at first because you need a bit of knowledge and you need to know the terminology of C++ programming to understand it. When you get that down it's not that hard to find whatever you're looking for =)

I meant more for the specific implementation/framework stuff rather than standard C++.

Originally Posted by Elysia

Not to mention Visual Studio is usually aimed at professional developers, but they've chosen to make the Express edition free, and it comes with a lot of goodies from the real, more expensive versions too.

Also, you cant sell the code you compile with express.

I was using DEV-C++, and that was a simple app. I can't seem to get the code to compile in VC++, I can't even find the compile icon. Is the whole app different? Do I have to learn new c ++ code? AHHH!

Also, you cant sell the code you compile with express.

That is not true. See the FAQ:

7. Can I use Express Editions for commercial use?

Yes, there are no licensing restrictions for applications built using Visual Studio Express Editions.

Lol. There's no build or compile app. Goto the Build menu and select build solution.
Can't remember what the default shortcut is for, but it's something like ctrl+shift+b. I tend to use VC6 shortcuts, so F7 compiles the solution.