When discussing the future of technology, two programming languages that frequently come up are Java and JavaScript. With each establishing a distinct market and providing the engine for innumerable applications, websites, and systems, these two titans have played a crucial role in forming the digital world as we know it today.
Although they have similar names, Java and JavaScript are different in terms of their functionality, application, and design, but they both have important roles in the digital sector. Businesses, developers, and tech enthusiasts are facing an increasingly pressing question: Which language will define the growth of the future?
Will it be JavaScript, the dynamic, always-evolving web language, or Java, the stable, platform-independent powerhouse that has withstood the test of time? The future of technology depends on your ability to understand the trajectories of these two languages, regardless of experience level.
This blog outlines some significant aspects of both languages, comparing JavaScript vs. Java to help you make the right decision.
Java Overview
Java is a powerful object-oriented programming language that is extensively used in Java web development and innumerable software applications. Its admiration stems from its aptitude to operate across various platforms, including Android and iOS devices, desktops, and servers.
Core Features of Java
Some of the core features of Java are:
· Classes
In Java, classes permit the creation of objects with data and behavior attached. An example of a class can be one for a person, including data fields like name and age and methods for recovering the person’s present age or translating their name to uppercase letters.
· Javadoc Comments
Javadoc Comments are a dedicated form of comment in the Java programming language. They provide additional information about a class and its approaches, including details about limitations, return values, and omissions.
· Data Types
In Java, an assorted choice of data categories is obtainable, encircling unadventurous numeric and filament values, as well as boolean, byte (representing small integers), char (denoting single characters), long (for larger integers), and others.
· Operators
In Java, languages can be transformed using dissimilar operators, such as multiplication (*) and division (/).
JavaScript Overview
JavaScript technology is a scripting language designed to augment the interactivity and vitality of web pages. It is also employed to develop numerous software categories, including games, animations, JavaScript app development, and utilities. JavaScript is well-matched with multiple platforms, such as desktops, servers, and mobile devices, through a browser plugin called a “JavaScript engine.”
Core Features of JavaScript
Now that we know about Java features, it’s time to learn about JavaScript features:
· Statements Looping
Statements in JavaScript, such as “for” and “while,” allow the monotonous implementation of instructions.
· Functions
JavaScript functions resemble Java’s methods, proposing a way to summarize code into refillable sections. Appealing to a prevailing function closely resembles calling any other script from the web browser page, thereby empowering the recycling of scripts transversely to various web pages.
· Objects and Classes
Objects can be created from predefined classes in JavaScript, a feature similar to Java’s class-based programming tactic.
· Events Handling
Events can be used with form controls such as input fields, radio buttons, or checkboxes to respond to user collaboration. For example, a form encompassing text fields may be well-appointed with an “OK” button triggered when the user clicks on it.
Java vs JavaScript – Growth of Both Languages
In the analysis, we have contrasted various market aspects to determine the extent of Java and JavaScript market reach in web development.
1. Most Used Programming Languages Worldwide (2024)
In 2024, JavaScript (JS) emerged as a widely used programming language within the global community of software developers.
According to Statista, approximately 63.61% of respondents reported using JavaScript, while 30.55% used Java. This widespread adoption of JavaScript instills confidence in its market presence and future growth potential.
Both technologies hold significant positions in the face of the best programming languages for web app development.
2. Who’s Winning in Website Development
- Java and JavaScript are applied by 4.7% and 3.1% of all websites.
- The utilization rates of JavaScript and Java in the top 1,000,000 websites are 5.4% and 6.9%, respectively.
- In the top 100,000 ranked websites, approximately 10.8% utilize Java, while around 12.4% employ JavaScript.
- The utilization rates of Java and JavaScript among the top 10,000 ranked sites are 14.1% and 19.0%, respectively.
- In the top 1,000 web applications, Java and JavaScript are utilized by 12.9% and 26.0% of these applications, respectively.
3. Big Brands Powered by Java and JavaScript (JS)
Built on data from StackShare, Java is employed in the technology stacks of 10447 corporations, while 14981 companies exploit JavaScript.
Similarities in Java and JavaScript
Java and JavaScript are essentially dissimilar programming languages with contradictory syntaxes but share certain similarities. Java and JavaScript code can be implemented on the Java Virtual Machine (JVM).
Additionally, crucial similarities are necessary for compilers to translate high-level language code into low-level system codes for both technologies.
Java vs JavaScript – Which Is Better for Web App Development?
Investigations frequently arise concerning the dissimilarity between JavaScript and Java. Defining the superior language difference between Java and JavaScript demonstrates thought-provoking. Both languages are feasible for web application development, each offering dissimilar advantages and drawbacks.
But still, here, we will try our best to find out if there’s any advantage in using JavaScript vs Java for web development. So, let’s get started with analyzing various factors:
1. Performance
JavaScript vs. Java share certain similarities; however, a programming language’s performance is prejudiced by innumerable other factors.
JavaScript is categorized as an insubstantial programming language with a dynamic typing system, enabling the implementation of scripts during the development of web applications. The cross-browser compatibility of the system boosts development competence by releasing developers of their apprehensions regarding code performance across various browsers.
The Java programming language is object-oriented with a stationary typing system, resulting in improved competence and faster implementation than JavaScript. This is particularly apparent in circumstances including all-embracing Java application development, where many variables and objects are present.
2. Development Time
Java and JavaScript require similar amounts of web app development. However, some developers may find Java advantageous due to its apparent comfort and speed of development.
JavaScript asserts a transitory learning curve, allowing developers to easily transition from JavaScript to other programming languages while working on an application if needed.
3. Data Structures
JavaScript integrates primitive data structures, including strings, integers, and Booleans. In contrast, Java is fortified with data structures such as Arrays and Object classes, which have array-type features for ornamental competence.
JavaScript natively supports functions within its core language, whereas Java does not have this feature by default. However, function functionality can still be achieved using JavaScript in Java.
4. Frontend Development
JavaScript plays a crucial role in frontend web app development. Its relevance for this purpose stems from its original design and the availability of numerous open-source libraries, such as jQuery, which streamline developers’ work with HTML/CSS elements.
Although Java does not have explicit features tailored to frontend development, Java and JavaScript can fulfill this purpose.
5. Backend Development
JavaScript includes Node.js, an open-source runtime environment suitable for developing server-side applications, such as Google Apps scripts, and even simple web applications using Express JS (Node Package Manager).
Java is a compiled programming language with tools and frameworks clearly designed for backend development. It enables developers to write concise code, albeit at the cost of a slower debugging process.
You can also explore PHP vs JavaScript to learn which can better suit your requirements.
6. Browser-Compatibility
Java is a language known for its cross-platform compatibility, while JavaScript operates exclusively on the client side and is tailored to work within web browsers. Despite this, JavaScript can also be utilized in Node.js to facilitate server-side scripting. However, it is essential to note that while Node.js expands JavaScript’s capabilities, it still presents constraints that are not present in Java.
Given the Java and JavaScript differences, using Java is imperative to ensure compatibility with older web browsers. Conversely, JavaScript is optimal for broad compatibility across modern and up-to-date browsers. The technology is also compatible with other platforms, such as Android, which enhances its utility for developing mobile applications.
7. Community Support
The Java programming language boasts an extensive and well-established community that helps Java developers address development-related challenges. On the contrary, the JavaScript community is suffering steadily, demonstrating an impending surge in popularity among global software engineers and web application developers.
8. Popularity
Java is widely supported globally and recognized as the best object-oriented programming language, contributing to plentiful development, performance, and technical advantages. This has contributed to its popularity among software engineers. On the other hand, while JavaScript may not be as well-organized as Java, its usability has led to its popularity among developers.
Difference between Java and JavaScript
This thoroughly explains, “What is the difference between Java and JavaScript?” It also analyzes Java and JavaScript for web development using various factors in a tabular format.
Factors | Java | JavaScript |
Usage | Backend development and enterprise solutions. | Frontend development and browser scripting. |
Typing | Statically typed | Dynamically typed |
Platform | Platform-independent (Write once, run anywhere) | Browser-dependent |
Java vs JavaScript Syntax | C- style syntax | ECMAScript-based syntax |
Concurrency | Multithreading Support | Single-threaded (asynchronous operations) |
Multithreading support | Compiled (Java virtual machine) | Interpreted (browsers) |
Performance | Generally high | Responsive may vary in specific scenarios |
Ecosystems | Extensive Libraries, Frameworks (Spring, hibernate) | Rich ecosystems (Node.js, react Angular) |
Learning curve | “The incline is more pronounced, particularly for individuals who are inexperienced or new to the activity.” | The product is designed to be accommodating and accessible for individuals at the novice level. |
Popularity | Widely adopted in enterprise environments. | Dominant in web development |
Community Support | Strong community support | Large and active community |
Debugging tools | Robust debugging tools (Eclipse, IntelliJ) | Browser-based tools (Chrome Dev tools) |
Mobile development | Android App development (with Kotlin/ Java) | Cross-platform mobile app development (React Native, Flutter) |
Integration | Integrates well with other languages and systems. | Seamless integration with HTML and CSS. |
When considering project necessities, the choice between Java and JavaScript is fundamental. Java has attained vast popularity among developers due to its abundant advantages in performance and development time.
On the other hand, JavaScript technology continues to provide viable alternatives for web application development, solidifying its position as a favored choice among many application developers.
Which is Better?
The difference between JavaScript and Java for web development is a significant consideration, as both languages have distinct advantages. Determining the suitable option depends on the specific nature of the development project, financial constraints, and other relevant factors such as business requirements.
For cutting-edge software solutions in Java or JavaScript, it is recommended that you engage the services of seasoned professionals from renowned IT firms like Codment. Whether it’s for Java or JavaScript, hiring developers who specialize in the respective language can ensure the successful execution of your web development endeavors.
You can also learn about Typescript vs JavaScript on our website.
Collaborate with Codment for Your Next Project
Codment is a top-tier web development company with all-embracing expertise in web design and frontend and backend development using cutting-edge technologies and frameworks. Our team of skilled custom web developers is well-equipped to address your specific requirements professionally and efficiently.