How to Efficiently Search for a Value in a PHP Multidimensional Array?

PHP Multidimensional Array Searching by Value

When manipulating multidimensional arrays, it's often necessary to locate a specific key based on a corresponding value. This task can be accomplished using various techniques in PHP.

Option 1: Using array_search() and array_column()

To utilize this approach, you'll need to ensure you're using PHP version 5.5.0 or higher.

$key = array_search('breville-one-touch-tea-maker-BTM800XL', array_column($products, 'slug'));

Explanation:

• array_column() extracts a column of keys from the array. In this case, it retrieves the 'slug' values into a new array.
• array_search() searches for the desired value ('breville-one-touch-tea-maker-BTM800XL') within the array returned by array_column(), providing the matching key if found.

Option 2: Custom Function with array_walk_recursive()

function array_search_multidim($array, $column, $key) {
    $result = null;
    array_walk_recursive($array, function ($value, $index) use ($column, $key, &$result) {
        if ($index === $column && $value === $key) {
            $result = $index;
        }
    });
    return $result;
}
$key = array_search_multidim($products, 'slug', 'breville-one-touch-tea-maker-BTM800XL');

Explanation:

• array_walk_recursive() iterates over all elements of the array, including those within nested levels.
• The closure function checks each value's index ($index) against the specified column ($column) and compares its value ($value) to the desired key ($key).
• If a match is found, it assigns the index ($index) of the matching element to the $result variable.

Performance Considerations

The array_search() and array_column() approach generally offers better performance compared to the array_walk_recursive() method. However, both techniques are suitable for most applications, and the specific choice will depend on individual requirements.

Additional Notes

• These methods require that the key exists at the same level as the value being searched.
• They search for exact value matches; partial matches are not supported.

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