uint8 vs. int8: Performance Comparison and Optimal Data Type Selection

# Introduction to Data Types: uint8 vs. int8

Data types in computer programming define the range, precision, and representation of values that variables or constants can store. There are various data types in computer systems, each with its specific uses and characteristics. This article will focus on two basic data types: uint8 and int8. These 8-bit integer types have differences in storage range, arithmetic operation efficiency, and memory access speed, which will be discussed in depth in the following chapters, along with guidance on optimal data type selection principles.

# Performance Comparison: uint8 vs. int8

### Storage Space and Range

Both uint8 and int8 are 8-bit unsigned and signed integer data types. The range for uint8 is 0 to 255, while int8 ranges from -128 to 127.

| Data Type | Storage Space | Range |
|---|---|---|
| uint8 | 1 byte | 0~255 |
| int8 | 1 byte | -128~127 |

### Arithmetic Operation Efficiency

In terms of arithmetic operations, uint8 and int8 have different efficiencies.

- **Addition and Subtraction**: For non-negative numbers, uint8 and int8 have the same efficiency in addition and subtraction. However, for negative numbers, int8 is more efficient as it does not require sign conversion.
- **Multiplication**: The efficiency for multiplication is the same for uint8 and int8.
- **Division**: int8 is more efficient in division as it does not require sign conversion.

### Memory Access Speed

The memory access speed for both uint8 and int8 is the same. This is because they are both 8-bit data types and take up the same space in memory.

#### Code Block Example:

# Comparing arithmetic operation efficiency between uint8 and int8

# Addition
uint8_a = 10
uint8_b = 20
uint8_sum = uint8_a + uint8_b   # 30

int8_a = -10
int8_b = 20
int8_sum = int8_a + int8_b   # 10

# Multiplication
uint8_a = 10
uint8_b = 20
uint8_product = uint8_a * uint8_b   # 200

int8_a = -10
int8_b = 20
int8_pr