What are the advantages of other mutex wrapper libraries over std::mutex?

Question

The C++ standard library offers std::mutex (lock, unlock, try_lock) functionality, that can work within a multi-threaded environment.

Also I have heard talk about wrapper libraries (e.g. Boost::mutex) that provide, from what I can see, the same functionality (lock, unlock, try_lock).

My question is, what is the advantage of using such wrapper libraries over the standard one?

Answer 1

std::mutex, std::thread and other elements of the threading library are only available C++11. boost::mutex et al predate C++11. So the advantage is that you can use them if you don't have C++11 support.

Answer 2

While juanchopanza noted the most direct answer to the question (+1), one thing which std::mutex introduces over the types they wrap is use of exceptions. For most people/environments/needs, that would be considered a good thing. In some cases, you may not want exception dependence. In that case/environment, the std::mutex interfaces may not be an option or desirable.

Answer 3

Some wrappers, like TBB and PPL, offer far more functionality than the Standard libraries.

1. Using pthreads/CreateThread yourself = writing your own malloc.
2. Using std::thread = malloc/free.
3. Using TBB/PPL = std::vector/std::unique_ptr.