`isset()` vs. `array_key_exists()`: Which PHP Array Key Existence Check is Faster and More Accurate?

Which Method is Quicker and Better for Determining Array Key Existence in PHP?

In PHP, there are two common methods for determining if an array key exists: isset() and array_key_exists().

isset()

isset() checks if the specified key exists in the array and returns true if it does. However, it also returns true for array values that are set to NULL. This means that isset() is not as strict as array_key_exists().

array_key_exists()

array_key_exists() strictly checks if the key exists in the array regardless of the value. It returns true if the key exists and false if it does not. This method ensures that only valid keys are considered.

Which is Better?

In terms of speed, isset() is faster than array_key_exists(). However, this performance difference is negligible for small arrays.

For clarity of intent, array_key_exists() is better because it explicitly checks for the existence of a key, regardless of its value. isset(), on the other hand, may lead to confusion when dealing with NULL values.

Conclusion

When determining if an array key exists in PHP, use array_key_exists() if precision is important, as it provides a strict check for the key's existence. Use isset() if speed is a priority, but be aware that it may return true even when the key's value is NULL.

The above is the detailed content of `isset()` vs. `array_key_exists()`: Which PHP Array Key Existence Check is Faster and More Accurate?. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!