Static methods in a PHP project: a good idea or a bad one?

In a PHP project, the choice between a static method and a non-static method (an instance method) is often a tricky one. There are specific situations where the use of static methods is preferable. But there aren't many. So static or not static?

1. Stateless utility operations

One of the most common cases for using a static method is for "utility" operations that do not depend on instance state. For example, string manipulation operations, calculations or data conversions. These methods do not need to access an object's properties and can be called directly.

Let's take a classic example:

class StringHelper
{
    public static function slugify(string $text): string
    {
        return strtolower(trim(preg_replace('/[^A-Za-z0-9-]+/', '-', $text)));
    }
}

In this case, the slugify method doesn't need an instance to work. So it makes sense to use it as a static method.

2. Improve the readability and simplicity of the code

When you have functions that need to be easily accessible without creating a class instance, static methods can be used to simplify the code. For example, for simple validation methods, you can create a static class that offers these validations.

This can also be very useful for avoiding code duplication. Rather than creating a service that would be injected everywhere just to call one or two utility functions, a static method makes use more direct.

3. Performance and accessibility

Static methods can be slightly more efficient than instance methods, because they don't require you to create an object. In a context where performance is crucial, and the functionality in question is trivial and stateless, a static method can make all the difference.

However, the performance improvement is often negligible, except in cases of intensive use.

4. Limitations of static methods

Despite their advantages, static methods are not always the best choice. They have disadvantages, particularly in terms of testability. Static methods are more difficult to mock in unit tests, as they create a tight dependency that cannot easily be replaced by a false implementation.

In Symfony, which is based on DI (dependency injection), it is preferable to use non-static services to maintain test flexibility and to follow good software architecture practices. Except in the very slight and specific cases mentioned above.

Conclusion

The use of static methods in a Symfony project is appropriate for simple, stateless and repetitive operations. But you need to be aware of the limitations, particularly in terms of testability and flexibility.

Advantages of static methods :

• Simplify access to utility functions.
• Can improve code readability.
• Slightly better performance in certain contexts.

Disadvantages of static methods:

• Difficult to test, especially for unit tests.
• Lack flexibility compared to injectable services.
• Can lead to strong coupling if used excessively.

For more complex components or those which need to interact with other services, it is preferable to use instance methods in services and to take advantage of Symfony's service container and dependency injection.