Update: I previously recommended using Homebrew and jEnv for managing Java installations, but I’ve since discovered SDKMAN! and find it to be a superior solution. It’s more streamlined, handles multiple SDKs beyond just Java, and doesn’t require Homebrew as a dependency.

Managing multiple Java versions on macOS can be challenging, especially when different projects require different JDK versions. SDKMAN! (Software Development Kit Manager) offers an elegant solution that goes beyond just Java management.

What is SDKMAN!?

SDKMAN! is a tool for managing parallel versions of multiple Software Development Kits on Unix-based systems. Originally known as GVM (Groovy enVironment Manager), it provides a simple command-line interface for installing, switching, and managing various JVM-related tools. What makes SDKMAN! particularly attractive is that it works seamlessly on macOS, Linux, and Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL).

Installing SDKMAN!

Installation is straightforward. Open your terminal and run:

curl -s "https://get.sdkman.io" | bash

After installation completes, either restart your terminal or run:

source "$HOME/.sdkman/bin/sdkman-init.sh"

Verify the installation by checking the version:

sdk version

Installing Java

With SDKMAN! installed, you can now easily install Java. First, let’s see what versions are available:

sdk list java

This command displays all available Java distributions and versions. To install a specific version, use:

sdk install java 17.0.13-tem

You can install multiple versions and switch between them easily:

sdk install java 21.0.5-tem
sdk use java 21.0.5-tem

To set a default Java version globally:

sdk default java 17.0.13-tem

Beyond Java: Other Development Tools

One of SDKMAN!’s biggest advantages over jEnv is its ability to manage numerous other development tools. You can install build tools, frameworks, and other SDKs with the same simple commands:

• Gradle: sdk install gradle
• Maven: sdk install maven
• Kotlin: sdk install kotlin
• Scala: sdk install scala
• Spring Boot CLI: sdk install springboot
• Groovy: sdk install groovy

To see all available SDKs:

sdk list

Useful Commands

Here are some handy SDKMAN! commands to know:

• sdk current – Show currently active SDK versions
• sdk current java – Show currently active Java version
• sdk upgrade – Upgrade all installed SDKs
• sdk uninstall java 17.0.13-tem – Remove a specific version
• sdk env – Switch to project-specific versions defined in .sdkmanrc

Why SDKMAN! Over jEnv?

While jEnv served me well, SDKMAN! offers several advantages:

• No Homebrew dependency – SDKMAN! is self-contained
• Manages more than just Java – one tool for your entire JVM ecosystem
• Simpler installation and configuration
• Active development and community support
• Built-in update mechanism for both the tool and SDKs

SDKMAN! has become my go-to tool for managing Java and related development tools on macOS. Its simplicity and comprehensive SDK support make it an excellent choice for Java developers working across multiple projects with varying requirements.

Happy coding!