What are some alternatives to Java 8 Optional?

What are some alternatives to Java 8 Optional?

Some alternatives to Java 8 Optional include using nullable types, custom wrapper classes, or third-party libraries like Guava.

Can you explain how to use nullable types instead?

Sure! Nullable types allow you to represent a value that can be absent. In Java, you can use the null keyword to indicate that a variable does not have a value.

What are the pros and cons of using nullable types?

Pros include simplicity and familiarity, while cons involve potential NullPointerExceptions and less explicit handling of absence.

How does a custom wrapper class work?

A custom wrapper class encapsulates a value and provides methods to check for presence, retrieve the value, or handle absence gracefully.