What are the advantages of ReentrantLock over synchronized?

What are the advantages of ReentrantLock over synchronized?

ReentrantLock offers more flexibility than synchronized, such as the ability to interrupt threads and try locking.

Can you explain how interruptible locks work?

Sure! With ReentrantLock, a thread can be interrupted while waiting to acquire a lock, allowing for better control.

Are there any performance benefits?

Yes, ReentrantLock can improve performance in scenarios with high contention, as it allows for more sophisticated locking strategies.

What about fairness? Does ReentrantLock support it?

Yes, ReentrantLock can be configured to be fair, ensuring that threads acquire the lock in the order they requested it.

When should I use synchronized instead of ReentrantLock?

Use synchronized for simpler cases where you don't need advanced features, as it's easier to read and maintain.