ArrayList vs Vector in Java: Key Differences & Performance Guide

ArrayList is a fast, non-synchronized resizable array in Java’s Collections Framework. Vector is its synchronized, legacy twin that carries thread-safe overhead and legacy API extras like Enumeration.

Devs often reach for Vector first because “synchronized = better” feels safer, then hit mysterious slowdowns in single-threaded apps. They also misread old Stack Overflow snippets, assuming Vector is just “the old ArrayList.”

Key Differences

ArrayList grows by 50 %, Vector by 100 %. Vector locks every method; ArrayList leaves concurrency to you. Iterators: ArrayList offers fail-fast, Vector supports Enumeration plus fail-fast. Vector appeared in JDK 1.0, ArrayList in 1.2.

Which One Should You Choose?

Need thread safety? Wrap ArrayList with Collections.synchronizedList or use CopyOnWriteArrayList. Stuck with legacy code that expects Vector? Keep it. Otherwise, pick ArrayList for speed and modern tooling.

Is Vector deprecated?

No—still maintained, but discouraged for new code.

Can I convert Vector to ArrayList?

Yes: new ArrayList<>(vectorInstance).

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