What is an efficient if/else in Java?

Question

I'm trying to return a different value using a simple if/else to check for an even number in Java.

if (move % 2 == 0) {
    return "o";
} else {
    return "O";
}

I know in JavaScript you can use

if () : a ? b ;

Can this be used in Java?

Answer 1

Yes, you can use the ternary operator in Java:

return (move % 2 == 0) ? "o" : "O";

Just don't expect it to be any faster than the if-else.

Answer 2

Yes, you can use the conditional operator in Java:

return (move % 2 == 0) ? "o": "O";

It won't make your program any faster, but it's a little more concise and if you are familiar with the conditional operator, you will probably find it easier to read.

But conversely, if you don't know this operator it will be hard to guess what the code does.