When should I use stdClass and when should I use an array in php oo code?

Question

In the middle of a period of big refactorings at work, I wish to introduce stdClass ***** as a way to return data from functions and I'm trying to find non-subjectives arguments to support my decision.

Are there any situations when would it be best to use one instead of the other ??

What benefits would I get to use stdClass instead of arrays ??

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Some would say that functions have to be as little and specific to be able to return one single value. My decision to use stdClass is temporal, as I hope to find the right Value Objects for each process on the long run.

Answer 1

The usual approach is

• Use objects when returning a defined data structure with fixed branches:

   $person
     -> name = "John"
     -> surname = "Miller"
     -> address = "123 Fake St"
  

• Use arrays when returning a list:

    "John Miller"
    "Peter Miller"
    "Josh Swanson"
    "Harry Miller"
  

• Use an array of objects when returning a list of structured information:

    $person[0]
      -> name = "John"
      -> surname = "Miller"
      -> address = "123 Fake St"
  
    $person[1]
      -> name = "Peter"
      -> surname = "Miller"
      -> address = "345 High St"
  

Objects are not suitable to hold lists of data, because you always need a key to address them. Arrays can fulfill both functions - hold arbitrary lists, and a data structure.

Therefore, you can use associative arrays over objects for the first and third examples if you want to. I'd say that's really just a question of style and preference.

@Deceze makes a number of good points on when to use an object (Validation, type checking and future methods).