/MD vs. /MT: Which Runtime Library Model Should You Choose for Your C Project?

Choosing the Optimal Runtime Library Model with /MD vs. /MT in Visual Studio

When compiling C code in Visual Studio, developers are faced with the choice between using either the dynamic (/MD) or static (/MT) runtime library model. This decision can significantly impact the behavior and performance of your application.

Dynamic Linking with /MD

By dynamically linking with /MD, you gain several advantages:

• Exposure to system updates: Security patches and other updates to the runtime library will seamlessly benefit your application.
• Smaller executable size: The runtime library is not embedded within the executable, reducing its overall size.
• Resource sharing: The code segment of a dynamically linked runtime library is shared across all processes using it, minimizing memory consumption.

However, it's important to note that /MD potentially exposes your application to changes in the runtime library that may require testing and validation before deployment.

Static Linking with /MT

Static linking with /MT provides some benefits as well:

• Isolation from system updates: Your application remains isolated from any updates to the system runtime library, ensuring stability.
• Potential build time savings: Statically linking the runtime library may result in faster build times.

However, /MT can lead to potential conflicts when working with statically-linked third-party libraries that have been compiled with different runtime options.

Other Implications

In addition to build times and system updates, other factors to consider include:

• Interoperability with third-party libraries: Ensuring compatibility with other libraries that rely on specific runtime models.
• Runtime versioning: Managing different versions of the runtime library used by multiple applications.

Popular Choice

The most common choice for most developers is dynamic linking with /MD. This option provides a balance between flexibility, performance, and isolation from system updates. However, static linking may be preferred in specific scenarios where stability and control over the runtime environment are paramount.

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