Object comparison using '==', instead of 'equals()'

Reports code that uses == or != rather than equals() to test for object equality.

Comparing objects using == or != is often a bug, because it compares objects by identity instead of equality. Comparisons to null are not reported.

Array, String and Number comparisons are reported by separate inspections.

Example:

  if (list1 == list2) {
    return;
  }

After the quick-fix is applied:

  if (Objects.equals(list1, list2)) {
    return;
  }

Locating this inspection

By ID

Can be used to locate inspection in e.g. Qodana configuration files, where you can quickly enable or disable it, or adjust its settings.

ObjectEquality

Via Settings dialog

Path to the inspection settings via IntelliJ Platform IDE Settings dialog, when you need to adjust inspection settings directly from your IDE.

Settings or Preferences | Editor | Inspections | Java | Probable bugs

Use the inspection settings to configure exceptions for this inspection.

Inspection options

Here you can find the description of settings available for the Object comparison using '==', instead of 'equals()' inspection, and the reference of their default values.

Ignore '==' between enum variables: Default: Selected
Ignore '==' between final class types without 'equals()' implementation: Default: Selected
Ignore '==' between objects of a type with only 'private' constructors: Not selected

Availability

By default bundled with: IntelliJ IDEA 2024.1, Qodana for JVM 2024.1,
Can be installed with plugin: Java, 241.18072

Last modified: 18 June 2024