Stop Using Boilerplate Code! How Java Records Improve Spring Boot Development

2 min read6 days ago

Java developers have long struggled with the verbosity of POJOs (Plain Old Java Objects), especially when dealing with DTOs, entities, and value objects. However, with Java 14’s introduction of record (and its official release in Java 16), we now have a powerful tool to simplify our Spring Boot applications. Let’s explore why you should embrace records and how they can improve your codebase.

What Are Java Records?

A record is a special kind of class in Java designed to be immutable and concise. It automatically generates essential methods such as:

Constructor
Getters (without get prefix)
equals() and hashCode()
toString()

Example of a Traditional POJO

public class User {
    private final String name;
    private final int age;
    
    public User(String name, int age) {
        this.name = name;
        this.age = age;
    }
    
    public String getName() {
        return name;
    }
    
    public int getAge() {
        return age;
    }
    
    @Override
    public boolean equals(Object o) { /* Implementation */ }
    
    @Override
    public int hashCode() { /* Implementation */ }
    
    @Override
    public String toString() { /* Implementation */ }
}

This class is repetitive and full of boilerplate code. Now, let’s see the same class as a record:

public record User(String name, int age) {}

That’s it! The compiler automatically generates all necessary methods.

Why Use Java Records in Spring Boot?

1. Perfect for DTOs

When working with REST APIs, Data Transfer Objects (DTOs) are essential. Java records simplify their definition:

public record UserDTO(String name, int age) {}

This makes controllers cleaner:

@RestController
@RequestMapping("/users")
public class UserController {
    @GetMapping("/{id}")
    public UserDTO getUser(@PathVariable Long id) {
        return new UserDTO("John Doe", 30);
    }
}

2. Immutable and Thread-Safe

Since records are immutable by default, they are perfect for multi-threaded applications, preventing unintended modifications.

3. Less Boilerplate, More Readability

Fewer lines of code mean fewer errors and improved readability.

Where NOT to Use Records

Records are great for DTOs and value objects but not for JPA entities. JPA requires setters and a no-argument constructor, which contradicts the immutability of records.

If you need to work with JPA, prefer regular classes with Lombok:

@Entity
@Getter
@Setter
@NoArgsConstructor
@AllArgsConstructor
public class UserEntity {
    @Id
    @GeneratedValue(strategy = GenerationType.IDENTITY)
    private Long id;
    private String name;
    private int age;
}

Conclusion

Java records are a game-changer for Spring Boot applications, simplifying DTOs and improving code clarity. While they are not suited for JPA entities, they are an excellent choice for data representation, making your applications more maintainable and efficient.

If you’re still writing verbose POJOs, now is the perfect time to start using records and embrace modern Java development!