Java for loop vs Enhanced for loop

In Java, loops are fundamental constructs for iterating over data structures or repeating blocks of code. Two commonly used loops are the for loop and the enhanced for loop. While they serve similar purposes, their applications and usage vary based on the scenario.

for loop vs Enhanced for loop

Below comparison highlights the major differences between a traditional for loop and an enhanced for loop in Java.

for loop in Java

The traditional for loop is a versatile structure used to iterate over a range of values, arrays, or other data structures. It provides complete control over the iteration process for any tasks which need to do multiple times.

Syntax:

for( initialization; conditional_check ; increment_or_decrement_section)
{
// Code to be executed which defined in the conditions
}

Example:

public class Geeks {
  
    public static void main(String[] args) {
      
        int[] n = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10};
      
        // Iterate through the array using a for loop
        for (int i = 0; i < n.length; i++) {
            System.out.println("Index " + i + ": " + n[i]);
        }
    }
}

Index 0: 1
Index 1: 2
Index 2: 3
Index 3: 4
Index 4: 5
Index 5: 6
Index 6: 7
Index 7: 8
Index 8: 9
Index 9: 10

Enhanced for loop (for-each loop) 

The enhanced for loop, also known as the for-each loop, is a streamlined way to iterate over collections and arrays. It eliminates the need for managing the loop's counter or bounds manually.

Syntax:

for (data_Type_element : array_Or_Collection) {
// Code to be executed which defined in the conditions
}

Example:

import java.io.*;
import java.util.*;

class Geeks {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        int[] arr = { 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 };
      
        // Iterate through the array 
        // using an enhanced for loop
        for (int a : arr) {
            System.out.println(a);
        }
    }
}

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