How to Efficiently Convert Generic Lists to DataTables in C#?

Efficiently Transforming Generic Lists into DataTables in C#

Many C# developers encounter the challenge of converting generic lists to DataTables. While reflection offers a solution, more efficient methods exist. This article explores optimal approaches.

Leveraging FastMember for Speed

For superior performance, the FastMember library (available via NuGet) is highly recommended:

<code class="language-csharp">IEnumerable<sometype> data = ...;
DataTable table = new DataTable();
using(var reader = ObjectReader.Create(data)) {
    table.Load(reader);
}</code>

Pre-.NET 3.5 Alternatives: Reflection and HyperDescriptor

Prior to .NET 3.5, developers relied on reflection or HyperDescriptor (available in .NET 2.0):

<code class="language-csharp">public static DataTable ToDataTable<T>(this IList<T> data)
{
    PropertyDescriptorCollection props = TypeDescriptor.GetProperties(typeof(T));
    DataTable table = new DataTable();
    for (int i = 0; i < props.Count; i++)
    {
        PropertyDescriptor prop = props[i];
        table.Columns.Add(prop.Name, prop.PropertyType);
    }
    foreach (T item in data)
    {
        DataRow row = table.NewRow();
        for (int i = 0; i < props.Count; i++)
        {
            row[i] = props[i].GetValue(item);
        }
        table.Rows.Add(row);
    }
    return table;
}</code>

Performance Optimization: HyperDescriptor

To maximize performance, enabling HyperDescriptor for the object type is crucial. Benchmark tests reveal substantial speed improvements:

• Standard Method: 27179 ms
• HyperDescriptor Enabled: 6997 ms

By utilizing these techniques, developers can significantly enhance the efficiency of converting generic lists to DataTables in their C# applications.

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