Difference Between Linear Queue and Circular Queue


In this post, we will understand the difference between linear queue and circular queue −

Linear Queue

  • It is a linear data structure, which data is arranged in a linear pattern.

  • Operations such as insertion and deletion are done from rear and front respectively.

  • It requires more memory, since data is stored in a linear fashion.

  • The element that is added to a linear queue at first, is the element that gets deleted first.

  • It follows FIFO, i.e first in first out.

  • The element that is inserted first is the element that is deleted first as well.

  • It is not as efficient as a circular queue structure.

Circular Queue

  • The data is arranged in a circular fashion.

  • This means that the front and the read are connected to each other.

  • Insertion and deletion can be done from any position.

  • It requires less memory since data is stored in circular form.

  • It is more efficient in comparison to a linear queue structure.

  • It doesn’t follow FIFO, hence the order of operations vary.

Updated on: 23-Mar-2021

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