Java array sorting example - how to sort a Java String array

By Alvin Alexander on March 20, 2013

Java array FAQ: Can you share an example of how to sort a Java String array?

In an earlier tutorial, I demonstrated how to create Java String arrays, and in this tutorial I'll continue along that line and demonstrate how to sort a Java String array.

The following Java class demonstrates how to create and sort a String array. In short, you can easily sort an array with the Arrays class sort method, shown in bold below:

import java.util.Arrays;

public class JavaSortStringArray
{
  public static void main(String[] args)
  {
    // create a Java String array
    String[] fruits = {"banana", "orange", "kiwi", "apple"};
    
    // sort the array, using the sort method of the Arrays class
    Arrays.sort(fruits);
    
    // print the sorted results
    for (String fruit : fruits)
    {
      System.out.println(fruit);
    }
  }
}

As you might imagine, the output from this array sorting example looks like this:

apple
banana
kiwi
orange

Java array sorting - discussion

As mentioned, the only "trick" in this array sorting example is being aware of the Arrays class, and the sort method of that class.

I decided to write this tutorial after seeing someone write their own String array sorting algorithm. I know it's hard sometimes to be aware of the complete Java API, so I hope that by sharing this array sorting example, this solution will be easier to find.

If you have any questions or comments, just leave them in the comments section below and I'll get back with you.