In the realm of unit testing with Mockito and JUnit, the choice between mock(Example.class) and new Example() is more than a matter of syntax. It’s a decision that can significantly impact your testing strategy.

When to Use mock(Example.class):

mock(Example.class) is your go-to when you want to isolate and verify the interactions of a class with its dependencies. This technique allows you to create a mock object that simulates the behavior of the class, making it invaluable for ensuring method calls and interactions are as expected.

When to Use new Example():

On the other hand, new Example() comes into play when you want to focus on the internal behavior of the class itself. It’s ideal for cases where you need to test the class’s methods in isolation without worrying about external dependencies. Here, you’re not concerned with the interactions; you just want to assess the internal logic.

Choosing the Right Approach:

The decision between these techniques should be driven by your specific testing goals. When you aim to confirm that your class is behaving correctly and handle interactions with its dependencies, Mockito’s mock(Example.class) is the way to go. If your primary concern is internal behavior, creating an actual instance with new Example() is more suitable.

In an effective testing strategy, the judicious use of these techniques can help you achieve comprehensive test coverage and ensure the robustness of your code. By selecting the right tool for the job, you can strike the balance between isolation and internal evaluation.

Zeeshan Ali