Java volatile reference vs. AtomicReference

Question

Is there any difference between a volatile Object reference and AtomicReference in case I would just use get() and set()-

Answer 1

AtomicReference provides additional functionality which a plain volatile variable does not provide. As you have read the API Javadoc you will know this, but it also provides a lock which can be useful for some operations.

However, unless you need this additional functionality I suggest you use a plain volatile field.