What is the Difference Between static and final in Java?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between static and final in Java lies in their purpose and behavior:
- Static:
- Static variables and methods are associated with the class, not the object.
- They are shared among all instances of the class, and changing the value of a static variable in one object changes it for all objects.
- They can be accessed using the class name without creating an instance of the class.
- Final:
- The final keyword is used with variables, methods, and classes to prevent changes.
- When used with a variable, it means that the value cannot be changed after initialization.
- When used with a method, it prevents overriding in subclasses.
- When used with a class, it prevents subclassing.
For example, a static final variable would have both characteristics: it can't be changed after initialization and is shared among all instances of the class. You need to initialize a static final variable when declaring it, as it can't be reinitialized later.
On this pageWhat is the Difference Between static and final in Java? Comparative Table: static vs final in Java
Comparative Table: static vs final in Java
The difference between static and final in Java can be summarized as follows:
| Static | Final |
|---|---|
| Used to define class members, which are shared across all instances of the class | Used to declare constant variables, methods, or classes |
| Associated with methods and variables to indicate that they are part of the class, not the object | Used for primitive data types, methods, or classes to prevent modification |
| Not mandatory to initialize static variables while declaring them | Mandatory to initialize final variables while declaring them |
| Can be reinitialized | Cannot be reinitialized |
| Helps save memory by allowing multiple objects to share the same class member values | Ensures that the value cannot be changed once assigned |
In summary, static is used to define class members that can be used independently of any object, while final is used to declare constants or prevent modification of variables, methods, or classes.
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