System.currentTimeMillis() or System.nanoTime(): Which is Best for Precise Game Timing?

System.currentTimeMillis vs System.nanoTime: A Quandary of Precision and Accuracy

When embarking on the journey of object movement in game development, a fundamental question arises: should developers utilize System.currentTimeMillis() or System.nanoTime() to ensure the highest level of precision in tracking elapsed time and object positions? This article dives into this conundrum, examining the strengths and limitations of each method to provide guidance for the most effective approach.

System.currentTimeMillis(): Accuracy at the Cost of Precision

System.currentTimeMillis() returns a long that represents the current time in milliseconds since the epoch, providing accurate epoch-based timestamps. However, its precision is limited to milliseconds, potentially leading to inaccuracies when measuring finer time intervals.

System.nanoTime(): Precision at the Expense of Accuracy

In contrast, System.nanoTime() returns a long that represents the most precise available system timer, measured in nanoseconds. This method offers exceptional precision, allowing for accurate measurements of elapsed time intervals down to the nanosecond level. However, it is important to note that while nanosecond precision is achieved, it does not necessarily equate to nanosecond accuracy.

Precision vs. Accuracy: Unveiling the Distinction

Precision refers to the number of significant digits or decimals that can be measured, while accuracy measures how close the value being measured is to its true value. In the context of System.currentTimeMillis() and System.nanoTime(), System.currentTimeMillis() offers higher accuracy for epoch-based timestamps, while System.nanoTime() exhibits superior precision for measuring elapsed time intervals.

Optimal Solution: Navigating the Trade-Off

Determining the appropriate method depends on the specific requirements of the development task. For precise measurements of elapsed time, System.nanoTime() is the preferred choice. For tasks that require accuracy in absolute time, such as timestamping events, System.currentTimeMillis() provides a reliable solution.

Conclusion

Understanding the distinction between accuracy and precision is paramount when selecting between System.currentTimeMillis() and System.nanoTime(). For developers seeking precise elapsed time measurements, System.nanoTime() is the optimal solution. For accurate epoch-based timestamps, System.currentTimeMillis() offers a reliable and accurate alternative. By carefully considering these factors, developers can make informed decisions that enhance the overall performance and reliability of their game applications.

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