How does Factory Method differ from a plain constructor?

Factory Method differs from a plain constructor in that it delegates choosing the specific class and the object-creation process to subclasses or external logic, whereas a constructor always creates a strictly defined object.

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#1. Control over creation

• Constructor - hard-fixed: new Car() always creates a Car.

• Factory Method - lets you decide at runtime which object to create:

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  Transport t = createTransport(); // could be a Truck or a Ship

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#2. Flexibility

• A constructor cannot be overridden.
• A factory method can be inherited and have its behavior changed without touching the rest of the code.

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#3. Encapsulating the creation logic

• A constructor does not hide the creation process.
• A factory method can include complex logic: validation, caching, choosing a type based on data.

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#4. Extensibility

• Adding a new type with a constructor requires rewriting the client code.
• With a factory method, it is enough to create a new subclass with the needed implementation.

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Summary: A constructor is direct creation of a specific object. Factory Method is a mechanism for choosing and creating a suitable object without tying it to specific classes, which makes the architecture more flexible and scalable.