C# FAQ: What is the difference between CSharp and Java enumerations

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What is the difference between C# and Java enumerations (enum)?

Enumerations—enums—are employed to create a list of named constants defined by the developer. At first glance, the Java and C# enumerated types appear similar; but, there are significant differences between the two implementations. A C# enumerated type is a compiler trick based on an integral type—normally int—; therefore, it is neither typesafe nor extensible. On the other hand, a Java enumerated type is an actual class; thus, it is typesafe and is extendable by adding fields, interfaces, or methods.

See also

• C# for Java Developers
• Use enumerations