Start a new activity or setContentView?

Is it better to start a new activity or just set a new content view in Android?

I usually start a new activity when I have to change the whole environment, but开发者_运维技巧 IMHO I think it's too onerous when I need to keep the other activity alive in the background.

On the other hand, I could have a single activity and just change the layout when I have to set a new environment.

Which is the better way and why?

Search for 'Pattern one activity, multiple views. Advantages and disadvantages' on stack-overflow and look for the answer by @CommonsWare