Java Switch Expressions — Free Java Tutorial

TL;DR: Learn Java Switch Expressions in Java with a free, beginner-friendly tutorial, examples and practice for Indian students on Syllab.in.

Java Switch Expressions in Java

Java 14 made switch expressions standard. Unlike old switch statements, switch expressions return a value and use arrow (->) syntax that does not fall through.

Arrow case syntax: case value -> result; No break needed. Multiple labels per case: case 1, 2, 3 -> "low".

For multi-line cases use blocks and yield: case X -> { ... yield value; }

Traditional switch with colon syntax still works (and still falls through). The new arrow syntax is preferred for expressions.

// Old style (statement, fall-through risk)
switch (day) {
    case MONDAY: result = "Start"; break;
    default: result = "Other";
}

// New style (expression, no fall-through)
String result = switch (day) {
    case MONDAY           -> "Start of week";
    case FRIDAY           -> "TGIF!";
    case SATURDAY, SUNDAY -> "Weekend";
    default               -> "Midweek";
};

// With yield (multi-line)
int value = switch (grade) {
    case "A" -> 4;
    case "B" -> { System.out.println("Good"); yield 3; }
    default  -> 0;
};

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