Any tool for java object to object mapping?

java

object-mapping

data-transformation

performance-optimization

byAnton Shumikhin·Oct 27, 2024

For quick and efficient Java object mapping, the ModelMapper comes highly recommended. In one instant, you can map sources to destinations:

//Caffeinate the coder, instantiate the mapper!
ModelMapper modelMapper = new ModelMapper();
//Beam me up, Scotty
Destination dest = modelMapper.map(new Source("SourceName", "SourceValue"), Destination.class);

This tool aligns matching fields with no boilerplate drama. Perfect for those quick data transformation needs. For more intricate demands, consider the speed of Orika or efficiency of MapStruct.

Tool overview and selection

In the world of ever-evolving data transformation complexities, several tools will prove handy. For instance, Dozer is a viable option with its exhaustive feature set, including bi-directional mapping and recursive data handling, particularly useful when dealing with unmodifiable legacy code.

When performance is a key demand, MapStruct emerges as a robust solution. It creates mapping code at compile-time, ensuring minimal runtime overhead.

Orika could be the knight in shining armor for complex mapping scenarios. It dynamically creates mapping codes, allowing finer control over the behavior, especially useful when dealing with intricate object graphs and nested properties.

For those who swim in the Spring ecosystem, Spring's BeanUtils or the Spring framework's property editors support integrated mapping in a Spring compliant manner.

For less common conversions or handling primitive types and arrays, Apache Commons-Lang or Commons-BeanUtils always work like an old charm.

Match the tool to the task

MapStruct: The Speedster

Choose MapStruct when performance is the desired attribute. It provides a compile-time approach that shuns the need for reflection at runtime.

Orika: The Complexity navigator

Pick Orika when dealing with complex object graphs. Its flexibility in defining custom mapping rules is unprecedented.

Dozer: The Legacy code whisperer

Opt for Dozer when navigating through legacy applications, where modification of data models is restricted but deep mapping is needed.

ModelMapper: The plug-and-play champ

For simple mappings where just lining up the fields suffices, ModelMapper offers a straightforward solution.

Integration-friendly Spring and Apache Commons

When dealing with a Spring-centric application, Spring's tools deliver a seamless experience. Apache Commons utilities are perfect for quick fixes in a neutral Java setting.

Avoid common pitfalls

The deceit of Automapping

Beware of automated mapping over-reliance; explicit field mappings are sometimes indispensable to avoid sneaky bugs.

Reflection overheads

Be mindful of the runtime reflection cost associated with tools like Dozer and balance it against the simplicity they provide.

Weigh compile vs runtime mapping

Remember to weigh the pros and cons of compile-time verse runtime mapping. Compile-time mappers like MapStruct may have better performance but lack flexibility.