? Thread vs Runnable

? Quick Overview

In Java multithreading, a task can be executed either by extending the Thread class or by implementing the Runnable interface. Both approaches create concurrent execution paths, but they differ in design, flexibility, and best practices.

? Key Concepts

• Thread represents an actual execution unit
• Runnable represents a task to be executed
• Java supports single inheritance but multiple interfaces
• Runnable promotes better object-oriented design

? Syntax / Theory

• Thread → Extend java.lang.Thread and override run()
• Runnable → Implement java.lang.Runnable and pass it to a Thread

? Code Example — Using Thread Class

// Creating a thread by extending Thread class
class MyThread extends Thread {
public void run() {
// Code executed when thread starts
System.out.println("Thread running using Thread class");
}
}

public class ThreadExample {
public static void main(String[] args) {
// Creating and starting thread
MyThread t1 = new MyThread();
t1.start();
}
}

? Code Example — Using Runnable Interface

// Creating a task using Runnable interface
class MyTask implements Runnable {
public void run() {
// Code executed when thread starts
System.out.println("Thread running using Runnable");
}
}

public class RunnableExample {
public static void main(String[] args) {
// Passing task to Thread object
Thread t1 = new Thread(new MyTask());
t1.start();
}
}

? Live Output / Explanation