Checked vs Unchecked Exceptions

Compile-time vs runtime exceptions

Interview Relevant: Common interview question
6 min read

Checked vs Unchecked Exceptions

Checked exceptions are verified at compile time, unchecked at runtime.

Code Examples

Checked vs unchecked example

java
1
2try {
3    FileReader fr = new FileReader("a.txt"); // Checked
4} catch (IOException e) {}
5
6int x = 10 / 0; // Unchecked
7          

Use Cases

  • API contracts
  • Runtime safety

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Confusing Error with Exception
  • Catching RuntimeException unnecessarily