Finally vs Finalize in Java: Key Differences & Best Practices
finally is a Java keyword that guarantees a block runs after try-catch, while finalize is a protected method in java.lang.Object called by the garbage collector before reclaiming an object.
Many developers type “finalize” when they mean “finally” because both words promise cleanup. In reality, one is bullet-proof syntax you rely on to close files; the other is a fragile hook that may never even run.
Key Differences
finally executes every time the thread exits the try construct, whether normally or via exception. finalize is invoked unpredictably—perhaps never—when the object becomes unreachable. finally is core to resource management; finalize is deprecated since Java 9.
Which One Should You Choose?
Always use finally for releasing locks, sockets, and database connections. Avoid overriding finalize unless you’re maintaining legacy native resources, and even then prefer java.lang.ref.Cleaner or AutoCloseable.
Examples and Daily Life
finally: closing a Scanner in a try-with-resources loop. finalize: never again, unless you’re debugging memory leaks in a 2010-era library.
Is finalize ever guaranteed to run?
No. The JVM may exit or crash before garbage collection, skipping it entirely.
Can finally be skipped?
Only if System.exit() or a JVM crash occurs; otherwise, it’s rock-solid.
What replaced finalize in modern Java?
AutoCloseable with try-with-resources and the Cleaner API.