laravel-enums

Laravel enums enable type-safe model casts by mapping database columns to backed enum classes in app/Enums. You define string or integer cases, cast model attributes to the enum class, and apply validation rules to ensure consistent finite option sets across your application.

Backed enums with labels centralize business constants by defining cases like Pending = 'pending' alongside UI-friendly traits. You retrieve human-readable names via methods like OrderStatus::labels() or $status->getLabel(), ensuring coherent dropdowns and consistent display across forms.

Yes, Laravel backed enum validation requires PHP 8.1 or higher because it leverages native enum features for strong typing and compile-time checks. Your Laravel project must meet this version prerequisite to define string or integer backed cases and apply them to DTOs and form requests.

Yes, backed enums can be seamlessly integrated into Laravel DTOs and form requests. By applying enum validation rules and type-hinting properties, you enforce strong typing and guarantee that only valid finite option sets are accepted during data transmission and request handling.

Laravel enums are ideal for enforcing type-safe, finite option sets with consistent labels, whereas state machines are better suited for managing complex workflows with conditional state transitions. Use enums for static status representation and state machines when dynamic transition logic is required.