When should I use static variables in Java?

When should I use static variables in Java?

Static variables in Java are used when you want to share a variable across all instances of a class. They belong to the class rather than any specific object.

Can you give me an example of a static variable?

Sure! For instance, if you have a class Counter with a static variable count, every time you create a new Counter object, it can access and modify the same count variable.

What are the advantages of using static variables?

The main advantages include memory efficiency, as static variables are shared among all instances, and they can be accessed without creating an object of the class.

Are there any downsides to using static variables?

Yes, static variables can lead to issues with concurrency in multi-threaded applications and can make unit testing more difficult.