Comparison of Loop Types in Java: for, for-each, while, and do-while

In Java, loops allow a block of code to run repeatedly based on a condition. Each type of loop is suited for different situations, such as when we know how many times to repeat, want to check a condition before or after running, or simply iterate through a collection.

Java mainly supports four types of loops:

  1. for loop – Used when the number of iterations is known.
  2. for-each loop – Used for iterating over arrays or collections.
  3. while loop – Used when the number of iterations is not known in advance.
  4. do-while loop – Similar to while, but guarantees one execution.

Comparison Table:

Feature/Aspect for Loop for-each Loop (Enhanced for) while Loop do-while Loop
Use case When index/control is needed When reading elements from array/list When loop needs to run on a condition When loop must run at least once
Syntax for (init; cond; update) for (type var : array) while (condition) do { } while (condition);
Condition check Before loop body Internally handled Before loop body After loop body
Minimum execution 0 times (if condition is false) 0 times (if array is empty) 0 times (if condition is false) At least 1 time
Accessing index Yes No Yes (if index manually used) Yes (if index manually used)
Best for Indexed iterations, range-based logic Reading elements from arrays/collections Condition-controlled loops Input/menu that must run once at least
Can modify elements? Yes (using index) Not directly Yes Yes
Readable/Simple? Medium (more code) Very simple Medium Medium
Example 
for (int i = 0; i < 5; i++) {
    System.out.println(i);
}
 
int[] nums = {1, 2, 3};
for (int n : nums) {
    System.out.println(n);
}
 
int i = 0;
while (i < 5) {
    System.out.println(i);
    i++;
}
 
int j = 0;
do {
    System.out.println(j);
    j++;
} while (j < 5);

Loop Selection Guide

Situation Best Loop
You need counter/index for loop
You just want to read all values for-each
You want to run while condition is true while loop
You want the loop to run at least once do-while loop

Summary :

  1. for loop – Use when the number of iterations is known and index/control is needed.
  2. for-each loop – Best for reading elements from arrays/collections; no index access.
  3. while loop – Use when condition needs to be checked before running; may not run at all.
  4. do-while loop – Executes loop body at least once; condition is checked after execution.

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