Can the Builder Pattern be used with Java Records?

Java MCQ: Can the Builder Pattern be used with Java Records?

Answer:

Explanation:

While Java Records do not natively support the Builder Pattern, you can still use the Builder Pattern with records by manually implementing a Builder class. The Builder Pattern is a design pattern that provides a way to construct complex objects step by step, allowing for greater flexibility and readability in object creation.

Here’s an example of using the Builder Pattern with a Java Record:

public record Car(String make, String model, int year) {
    public static class Builder {
        private String make;
        private String model;
        private int year;

        public Builder make(String make) {
            this.make = make;
            return this;
        }

        public Builder model(String model) {
            this.model = model;
            return this;
        }

        public Builder year(int year) {
            this.year = year;
            return this;
        }

        public Car build() {
            return new Car(make, model, year);
        }
    }
}

In this example, the Car record has a nested Builder class. The builder methods (make(), model(), year()) allow you to set the fields of the record. The build() method then creates and returns a new Car record instance.

The Builder Pattern is useful in scenarios where a record has many fields, and you want to provide a clear and flexible way to construct instances of the record. By manually implementing a Builder class, you can achieve this while still benefiting from the immutability and conciseness of records.

Reference links:

https://www.rameshfadatare.com/learn-java-programming/
https://www.javaguides.net/p/java-tutorial-learn-java-programming.html