Answer
Value types are stored inline on the stack or inside objects. Reference types reside on the managed heap.
Boxing allocates new objects with headers and method table pointers. Inline struct fields avoid indirection and improve performance.
Quick Answer
Value types are stored inline — on the stack for locals, or embedded directly in the containing object on the heap. Reference types always go on the managed heap with a header and method table pointer. Boxing creates a heap-allocated wrapper around a value type, which is why it costs a heap allocation.
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SugharaIQ Editorial Team
Verified Answer
This answer has been peer-reviewed by industry experts holding senior engineering roles to ensure technical accuracy and relevance for modern interview standards.
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Source: SugharaIQ