Classification of sorting algorithms

Each sorting algorithm has its own pros and cons. This article classifies sorting algorithms into 5 category which will help you decide the best fit for your own use case.

List of sorting algorithms:

1. Bubble Sort
2. Quick Sort
3. Insertion Sort
4. Merge Sort
5. Selection Sort
6. Heap Sort
7. Counting Sort
8. Radix Sort

Classifications

Time complexity

Space complexity: In-place (constant space) v/s memory usage increase with input size

Recursive v/s Non-recursive

Stability: stable sort v/s unstable sort

Stable sorting algorithms preserve the relative order of equal elements, while unstable sorting algorithms don’t

Memory/Disk storage: Internal sort v/s External sort. If RAM or memory is used to store all records then it is internal sort. If records are on disk/tapes then it is external sort.