What are the differences between ArrayList and Vector in Java?

What are the differences between ArrayList and Vector in Java?

ArrayList and Vector are both part of Java's collection framework, but they have some key differences. ArrayList is not synchronized, making it faster for non-threaded applications, while Vector is synchronized, which makes it thread-safe but slower.

Can you explain what synchronization means in this context?

Synchronization in this context refers to the ability to control access to a shared resource by multiple threads. In a synchronized collection like Vector, only one thread can access the collection at a time, preventing data inconsistency.

Are there any performance implications when using Vector?

Yes, because Vector is synchronized, it can be slower than ArrayList in scenarios where thread safety is not a concern. If you don't need synchronization, ArrayList is generally preferred for better performance.

When should I use ArrayList over Vector?

You should use ArrayList when you are working in a single-threaded environment or when you can manage synchronization manually. It's more efficient for most use cases.