Java 8 Online Compiler — Run Java 8 Programs Free
Write and run Java 8 programs directly in your browser. Our free online Java 8 compiler supports all Java 8 features including Lambda Expressions, Stream API, Optional, Default Methods, and the new Date/Time API. No installation required — start coding instantly.
Java 8 Features You Can Try Right Now
Lambda Expressions
Write concise anonymous functions. Transform complex code into clean, readable one-liners with arrow syntax.
Try Lambda Code →Stream API
Process collections of data in a functional style with filter, map, reduce, and collect operations.
Try Stream API →Optional Class
Handle null values gracefully. Avoid NullPointerException with Optional.of(), orElse(), and ifPresent().
Try Optional →Method References
Simplify Lambda expressions when they call a single method. Use :: operator for cleaner code.
Try Method Refs →New Date/Time API
Use LocalDate, LocalTime, LocalDateTime for immutable, thread-safe date operations.
Try Date API →Default Methods
Add method implementations directly in interfaces. Enables backward compatibility and multiple inheritance.
Try Default Methods →Java 8 vs Java 11 vs Java 17 vs Java 21 — Which to Use?
| Feature | Java 8 | Java 11 | Java 17 | Java 21 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LTS | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Lambda Expressions | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| var keyword | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Records | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Sealed Classes | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Virtual Threads | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Best For | Legacy apps | Cloud apps | Learning | Latest features |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key features of Java 8?
Java 8 introduced Lambda Expressions, Stream API, Optional class, Default Methods in Interfaces, Method References, and the new Date/Time API (java.time). These features revolutionized Java programming.
Is Java 8 still supported?
Yes, Java 8 is a Long-Term Support (LTS) release and still widely used in enterprise applications. Oracle provides extended support until 2030.
Can I run Java 8 code in this online compiler?
Yes! Our compiler supports Java 8 along with Java 11, 17, and 21. Select "Java 8" from the version dropdown before running your code.
Should I learn Java 8 or Java 17?
If you are starting fresh, learn Java 17 — it includes all Java 8 features plus modern improvements. If you are working on existing enterprise codebases, Java 8 knowledge is essential.
What is a Lambda Expression in Java 8?
A Lambda Expression is a concise way to represent an anonymous function. Syntax: (parameters) -> expression. For example: (a, b) -> a + b. It makes code shorter and enables functional programming.