C# FAQ: What is the difference between const and static readonly

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What is the difference between const and static readonly?

The value of a static readonly field is set at runtime; therefore, the value can be modified by the containing class. On the other hand, the value of a const field is set to a compile-time constant.

In the case of static readonly, the containing class is allowed to modify the value only:

in the variable declaration (via a variable initializer)

in the static constructor (or instance constructors for non-static)

Typically, static readonly is used either when the value is unknown at compile time or if the type of the field is not allowed in a const declaration.

Also, instance readonly fields are allowed.

Note: for reference types, in both cases—static and instance—the readonly modifier only prevents assignment of a new reference to the field. It does not specifically make the object pointed to by the reference immutable.

class TestProgram
{
   public static readonly Test test = new Test();
 
   static void Main (string[] args)
   {
      test.Name = "Application";
      test = new Test();  
      // Error: A static readonly field cannot
      // be assigned to (except in a static constructor
      // or a variable initializer).  
    }
}
 
class Test
{
   public string Name;
}

On the other hand, if Test were a value type, then assignment to test.Name would be an error.