Java LinkedList: A Complete Guide to Linked List Implementation

Understand the Java LinkedList class, a versatile collection similar to ArrayList but with a unique internal structure for efficient element storage and manipulation. Learn how LinkedList works, its advantages, and when to use it over ArrayList in Java programming.

Java LinkedList

The LinkedList class in Java is similar to the ArrayList but uses a different internal structure for storing elements:

Syntax

import java.util.LinkedList;

public class Main {
public static void main(String[] args) {
  LinkedList cars = new LinkedList();
  cars.add("Volvo");
  cars.add("BMW");
  cars.add("Ford");
  cars.add("Mazda");
  System.out.println(cars);
}
}
Output

[Volvo, BMW, Ford, Mazda]

ArrayList vs. LinkedList

The LinkedList class implements the List interface just like ArrayList, allowing similar operations such as adding, removing, and accessing elements.

However, LinkedList and ArrayList differ in how they store and manipulate elements:

  • ArrayList: Uses a dynamic array, making it efficient for random access.
  • LinkedList: Uses nodes linked together, making it efficient for manipulating data.

When To Use LinkedList

Use LinkedList when you need efficient insertion, deletion, or manipulation of elements within the list.

LinkedList Methods

LinkedList provides specific methods for efficient data manipulation:

  • addFirst(): Adds an item to the beginning of the list.
  • addLast(): Adds an item to the end of the list.
  • removeFirst(): Removes an item from the beginning of the list.
  • removeLast(): Removes an item from the end of the list.
  • getFirst(): Retrieves the item at the beginning of the list.
  • getLast(): Retrieves the item at the end of the list.