Arr::get() vs data_get() in Laravel 5.7

Question

With data_get() helper function, we can get value of a nested array using dot . notation as following:

$my_arr = [
    'a' => ['lower' => 'aa', 'upper' => 'AAA',], 
    'b' => ['lower' => 'bbb', 'upper' => 'BBBBB',],
];

Thus, I can get lower a by doing this.

data_get($my_arr, 'a.lower');

And you also do the following.

Arr::get('a.lower');

In case I just want to get only the first level of the array. I just can do both:

data_get($my_arr, 'a');

OR

Arr::get($my_arr, 'a');

Which one do you recommend me and why? I just want to keep improving my Laravel experience and get good advice from senior developers to choose the best options at the moment.

Answer 1

It depends on the context to decide which one to use.

1. Wildcard matching

If you need to use wildcard in your index, you have to go with data_get as Arr::get does not support wildcards.

Example:

Arr::get($my_arr, '*.lower'); // null
data_get($my_arr, '*.lower'); // ["aa", "bbb"]

2. Variable Type

Arr::get simply assumes that your variable is an array. Therefore, if you use an object, you have to go with data_get. If, however you are sure your variable is an array and you don't need wildcards, you should proceed with Arr::get to avoid unnecessary checks from data_get that evaluates to see if your variable is an object or array.