What are the differences between comparing dates using DateTime objects versus formatted strings in PHP?

When comparing dates in PHP, it is recommended to use DateTime objects rather than formatted strings. DateTime objects provide a more reliable and accurate way to compare dates, taking into account timezones and daylight saving time. Comparing formatted strings can lead to unexpected results due to differences in date formats and timezones. 

// Comparing dates using DateTime objects
$date1 = new DateTime('2022-01-01');
$date2 = new DateTime('2022-02-01');

if ($date1 < $date2) {
    echo "Date 1 is before Date 2";
} else {
    echo "Date 1 is after Date 2";
}

Keywords

DateTime objects formatted strings date comparison PHP differences

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