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Java.lang.outofmemoryerror: GC overhead limit exceeded

java
memory-management
garbage-collection
optimization
Nikita BarsukovbyNikita Barsukov·Feb 26, 2025
TLDR

Address java.lang.OutOfMemoryError: GC overhead limit exceeded by:

  1. Bolster heap size using JVM arguments:

    -Xmx4g // Before you get on the bus, make sure it's bigger
  2. Identify and resolve memory leaks by rolling up your sleeves and using profiling tools.

  3. Fettle your code to let go of useless object retention.

  4. For temporary respite, turn off GC overhead checks:

    -XX:-UseGCOverheadLimit   // You're not my supervisor, GC!
    

🛠️ Remember to address the root cause, not cover up the symptoms.

Upgrades: Tuning the JVM memory

Plugging away with an OutOfMemoryError? Here's how you handle the situation, step by step.

Battle plan for memory expansion

Sure, boosting heap size with -Xmx feels compelling. But don't go overboard. Increase memory allocation progressively. Tune it just right, like Goldilocks, to avoid overcommitting resources and inadvertently harming your application's performance.

An efficiency guide to data handling

Using discrete portions of HashMap objects can ease memory load. If repeated strings are taking a toll, consider String.intern(). This neat technique ensures only a single instance is retained, saving you memory space. Also, asset tune your HashMap with the right initialCapacity and loadFactor.

Ditch the redundancy, embrace efficiency

Sometimes, picking another algorithm or data structure over multiple smaller HashMaps can drastically cut down your memory overhead. You might opt for trees, arrays, or customised lightweight structures, all depending on your specific needs.

Choose your garbage collector wisely

Using garbage collection flags like -XX:+UseConcMarkSweepGC can optimise memory management, keeping your app from choking on its own garbage.

Buckle down for profiling and optimisation

Profiling is like a treasure map, pointing you right at high memory usage areas ripe for optimisation. Streamline your code, cut out the fluff, and enjoy the smooth sailing.

Android memory management: A quick primer

Android isn't Java's backyard party. Here's how you play the game right in Android-land:

  • Dial up javaMaxHeapSize in build.gradle to land more heap space.
  • Got more than 64k references? Turn on multiDex to manage multiple DEX files.
  • Use packagingOptions and reduce your app’s size with minifyEnabled and proguardFiles.

And remember—the right balance between performance gains and app stability makes for a killer app.

When to consider a hardware upgrade

If you're all out of software tricks, it might be time to upgrade your hardware. But, hold the door—don't let it be your first resort. Striving for algorithmic efficiency and leaner code should be your initial battle plan.