In java, enum types are introduced to replace enumerated set of int constants and enumerated set of String constants, say, set of colors in a palette, set of planets in the solar system etc., Unlike enums in other languages, Java enum types can be as simple as a simple constant name to as complex as a full-fledged class with attributes and methods.
Here is an example:
enum SodaSize{
SMALL(16), MEDIUM(21), LARGE(30);
SodaSize(int size){
this.size = size;
}
private int size;
public String getSize(){
return this.size + " ounces.";
}
}
What are the benefits of enum type over the enumerated int or string constants?