Helper Class in PHP - static method vs standard function

Question

Which is the best/right way if I want to create a Helper class in PHP?

A Helper class that contains static methods like this:

<?php
class Helper {

   static function helpThis() {
      // code
   }

   static function helpThat() {
      // code
   }
}
?>

Or

Create a PHP file with a bunch of functions like this:

<?php
   function helpThis() {
      // code
   }

   function helpThat() {
      // code
   }
?>

Answer 1

I'd suggest creating a class.

This way you can save yourself from adding include helper.inc.php everytime before using these functions.

Class on the other hand can be autoloaded: Helper::helpThis() and that's it.

Answer 2

I guess it's always 'better' to put the methods in a class. Not only does it look better, but when using classes it's easier to know what every function/method does. You could for example create a main helper class and several other helper classes that derive from the main class. Everything is in place then and clear to understand what it does. ;)