Buffer vs. cache

1. Overview

The semantics of a "buffer" and a "cache" are not totally different. even so, there are fundamental differences in intent between the process of caching and the process of buffering.

 

A cache is typically used to store frequently accessed data. The data in a cache changes over time but the cache itself may be permanent. Caches often have sophisticated designs that support random access to large stores information. Algorithms to decide what to keep in the cache and what to push out can also be reasonably complex.

 

Buffers have a far simpler design. They are typically only used once to improve the efficiency of a process such as a data transfer.

2. Comparison of two concepts

Concept	Cache	Buffer
Definition	Memory or data storage that is used to store frequently used data to improve throughput and latency	Memory or data storage that is used to compensate for the differences in speed between two processes that exchange or use data
Example	A web server that caches static versions of dynamic web pages	A streaming media player that buffers music as a user is listening to it

3. References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cache_(computing)

https://simplicable.com/new/cache-vs-buffer