JavaFX: difference between methods setOnMouseClicked() and addEventHandler()?

Question

When I have an object o and I want to add an event to it, lets say I want it changes its color when clicked (Let's say it's a Rectangle object). What is the difference between: o.setNonMouseClicked(){ ... } and

o.addEventHandler(Action.EventAction, new EventHandler<ActionEvent>(){ ... })

How can I make the right choise?

Answer 1

Well it depends on the situation.

The "setOnMouseClicked" will add a new EventHandler to your object. But it will also replace any eventHandler previously added through that method! So if you're planning on changing in runtime the way to react to mouse click, this is the right method.

Now if you just want to add another eventHandler (or several), you should use the "addEventHander" method. Therefore you will have your handlers added on one side. And you will keep the eventHandler added through "setOnMouseClicked" if previously added.

Also beware of the eventHandler or listener you're added because they can lead to severe memory leaks so be sure to remove them when necessary.