How does using Optional in Java affect performance?

How does using Optional in Java affect performance?

Using Optional can introduce some overhead due to additional object creation, but it can improve code readability.

Is the performance impact significant in large applications?

In large applications, the impact can be noticeable, especially if used excessively in performance-critical paths.

Are there alternatives to Optional that are more performant?

Yes, you can use nullable types or custom wrapper classes, but they may sacrifice some readability and safety.

When should I prefer using Optional?

Use Optional when you want to express the absence of a value clearly and avoid null checks, especially in public APIs.