# SortComparator A comparison algorithm for a specified type. ``` @preconcurrency protocol SortComparator : Hashable, Sendable ``` ## Overview Objects that conform to [`SortComparator`](/documentation/Foundation/SortComparator) provide a comparison algorithm and storage for the sort order to use when comparing. ## Topics ### Inspecting a Comparator [`order`](/documentation/Foundation/SortComparator/order) The sort order that the comparator uses to compare. [`localized`](/documentation/Foundation/SortComparator/localized) A comparator that compares a string using a localized comparison in the current locale. [`localizedStandard`](/documentation/Foundation/SortComparator/localizedStandard) A comparator that compares a string using a localized, numeric comparison in the current locale. ### Using a Comparator [`compare(_:_:)`](/documentation/Foundation/SortComparator/compare(_:_:)) Provides the relative ordering of two elements based on the sort order of the comparator. [`Compared`](/documentation/Foundation/SortComparator/Compared) A type that the sort comparator can compare. --- Copyright © 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. | [Terms of Use](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/terms/site.html) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.apple.com/privacy/privacy-policy)