What is the difference between getc(), getchar(), getch() and getche()?

Difference Between getc(), getchar(), getch() and getche()

These functions are used in C programming to take character input from the user.

Although they appear similar, their behavior and usage are different.

Comparison Table

1. getc()

getc() reads a single character from a file or standard input.

Syntax:

ch = getc(file_pointer);

Example:

ch = getc(stdin);

It requires pressing the Enter key.

2. getchar()

getchar() reads one character from the keyboard.

Syntax:

ch = getchar();

It also requires pressing Enter after typing the character.

3. getch()

getch() reads a character directly from the keyboard without displaying it on the screen.

Syntax:

ch = getch();

It does not require the Enter key.

4. getche()

getche() reads a character and displays it immediately on the screen.

Syntax:

ch = getche();

It also works without pressing Enter.

Main Difference

• getc() and getchar() require Enter key.
• getch() and getche() do not require Enter key.
• getch() hides the typed character.
• getche() shows the typed character.

Conclusion

All four functions are used for character input, but they behave differently based on visibility and keyboard handling.

Understanding these differences is important for C programming input operations.