When to use `short` over `int`?

Question

There are many questions that asks for difference between the short and int integer types in C++, but practically, when do you choose short over int?

Answer 1

(See Eric's answer for more detailed explanation)

Notes:

• Generally, int is set to the 'natural size' - the integer form that the hardware handles most efficiently
• When using short in an array or in arithmetic operations, the short integer is converted into int, and so this can introduce a hit on the speed in processing short integers
• Using short can conserve memory if it is narrower than int, which can be important when using a large array
• Your program will use more memory in a 32-bit int system compared to a 16-bit int system

Conclusion:

• Use int unless you conserving memory is critical, or your program uses a lot of memory (e.g. many arrays). In that case, use short.