What is the difference between accessing a class method via -> and via ::?

Question

What is the difference between accessing a class method via -> and via ::?

Answer 1

The -> is for accessing properties and methods of instantiated objects. The :: is to access static methods, constants or overridden methods.

For more information:

• Scope Resolution Operator (::)

Answer 2

:: is used for accessing static methods or attributes, so you don't have to instantiate an object of the containing class.

-> is used for accessing methods or attributes of instantiated objects.