The Tiny C Compiler, commonly referred to as TCC, is a compact and efficient C language compiler that is engineered to provide fast compilation times and minimal resource consumption.
This compiler is popular for its ability to execute code directly from memory. That’s why it’s a preferred choice for scripting and educational applications where speed and simplicity matter most.
Why Use a TCC Compiler
TCC is incredibly fast. It outperforms many traditional compilers in terms of speed. Its lightweight nature allows TCC to compile and execute code almost instantaneously. This is particularly beneficial in scenarios where quick iterations are necessary. This capability also makes TCC ideal for use in environments with restricted resources, such as embedded systems or older hardware.
Additionally, TCC’s ability to perform on-the-fly execution of C code means developers can test snippets of code efficiently, facilitating a smoother and more dynamic development process.
Features of TCC Compiler
Despite its small size, TCC supports ANSI C and many GNU C extensions, ensuring compatibility with most C codebases. It provides a full-fledged C preprocessor, compiler, and assembler, all bundled into a single executable.
The compiler is also capable of generating optimized binaries, a notable feat given its emphasis on speed and size. Moreover, TCC can be configured to run on various platforms, including Windows and Linux.
Its capacity to compile and execute in-memory code further sets TCC apart because it allows for interactive coding and testing without the need for intermediate files.
TCC vs GCC
TCC is significantly faster than GCC. That’s why it’s a superior choice for rapid testing and development cycles where turnaround time is critical. However, GCC is more robust in its support for the latest C standards and offers more extensive optimization techniques. This can result in better-performing executables for production environments.
GCC’s toolchain is also more comprehensive, supporting multiple languages like C++, Fortran, and others, whereas TCC is primarily focused on C.
While TCC excels in speed and simplicity, GCC provides a more feature-rich environment suited for complex and large-scale applications.
Incredibuild and TCC
Incredibuild integrates seamlessly with TCC to accelerate software development processes.
This distributed build acceleration tool enhances compilation speeds by utilizing a network of machines to share the workload. While TCC is already optimized for fast compilation, Incredibuild can further amplify its performance, particularly in large projects.