Difference between save and saveAndFlush in Spring data jpa

java

best-practices

transactional

database-operations

byNikita Barsukov·Feb 5, 2025

save provisions your entity into the persistence context, while saveAndFlush not only stores but transparently syncs it with your database. If you're handshaking with system utilities like database triggers or constraints, or require an immediate visibility of data right within your transaction, saveAndFlush is your chief ally.

Here's a gist:

// save: Entity is staged but may not be in the DB immediately
// Call it the backstage preparation before the final showtime!
YourEntity savedEntity = repository.save(entity);

// saveAndFlush: Entity gets the star treatment with immediate DB entry
// No more waiting behind the scenes!
YourEntity flushedEntity = repository.saveAndFlush(entity);

Employing saveAndFlush have your changes instantly hit the database goggles, guaranteeing subsequent reads to feel the change vibe. For batch operations, save is an efficient pick as it dials down the number of flushes and hits on database.

Distinct use cases of save and saveAndFlush

To be an adept captain steering your application ship, it's crucial to grasp when to drop anchor on save or saveAndFlush.

Directly tasting the change

Leaning on saveAndFlush packs a punch when your business logic is thirsty to witness changes off the bat.

That includes:

Real-time systems: When time and data freshness are in the driver's seat.
Application integrations: When your database is on the hook of multi-application fishing line.
Database triggers: When the fireworks should light up the databases immediately post entity persistence.

Deferred data synchronization

On the flip side, save hits the correct note when you aim for:

Batch updates: More Bang for Your Bucks. Defer the database sync and let save enrich your app's performance.
Post-validation operations: Verify your data thoroughly before letting it hit the DB ground.
Optimized resources usage: Save on database resources by sliding in the DB operations.

Advanced nuances

Casting light on important nooks and corners:

Play and rewind: Flush changes to watch constraints or triggers in action, without disturbing the DB harmony.
Identity Crisis solution: save gets you an entity ID, but post flush you are the proud owner of the permanent ID.
Maintaining oeuvre: Flushing keeps your persistence context and the database in perfect sync. The peace treaty for data integrity!

Best practices for deadly-accurate data operations

Understanding flush modes

Intuiting flush modes is akin to hitting bullseye:

AUTO (default) : Game Changer! Auto flushes changes to the DB when a query belly flops the pool.
COMMIT: The last-second gamer! Restrains the flush until the transaction scores on the final whistle.
ALWAYS: The swift and the furious! Forces flush on every query or commit. But hold on, this might slow down your app car.

Catering to transaction needs

While coddling with transactions:

Basket of operations: Bundle your save and saveAndFlush commands within appropriate transaction boundaries.
Controlled retries: Despite the flush operation, precious rollback can still send your entire transaction back to the starting line.

Being alert with aftermath

Keep a keen eye for:

Performance impacts: Excessive use of saveAndFlush can lead your app speed south.
Database deadlock: It's not a spy thriller! Keep your transactions safe from potential locking issues during flushing.

explain-codes / Java / Difference between save and saveAndFlush in Spring data jpa

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