Java vs JavaScript: Key Differences You Should Check

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Java vs JavaScript: Key Differences You Should Check
vinaykhatri

Vinay Khatri
Last updated on October 10, 2024

    Contrary to what the names Java and JavaScript hint at, they are two different programming languages. This article sheds light on the interesting topic of Java vs JavaScript. Every 90’s kid is familiar with Java. If you have ever used Symbian mobiles and played games on them, then you must have seen the logo of Java. Java is one of the most popular programming languages for software development. Often people confuse Java with JavaScript and think that JavaScript is something that is related to Java.

    So, let us tell you JavaScript is a totally different programming language that is used to create dynamic webpages, and when it comes to web development, you just can’t ignore JavaScript. It does not matter that you are a front-end developer or a back-end developer, you should have knowledge of JavaScript. Having knowledge of Java also helps. If you want to learn both, then it is very important to know the difference between Java and JavaScript.

    Java vs JavaScript

    What is Java?

    Java Programming Languages

    Java is a pure object-oriented, high-level programming language that is used for building software for different operating systems. It runs on JVM (Java Virtual machine) , which makes it a platform-independent programming language. Java works on the principle of “Write Once, Run Anywhere (WORA)”. Java was designed by James Gosling in May 1995.

    Why to Use Java?

    Java

    If you are new to programming and you are thinking of choosing Java as your first programming language, we will say it's not a rational decision. This is because Java is a very complicated programming language. If you want to learn Java, we suggest you first learn the C++ programming language  and then move to Java.

    The more you get into Java, the more it gets complicated. It’s hard to say that you can learn complete Java in 5 to 6 months. Though Java is a very powerful programming language and can land you a high-paid job, it takes time and effort to learn Java.

    Java Helps in Developing:

    • Desktop applications
    • GUI software
    • Android applications
    • Scientific applications
    • Web applications

    What is JavaScript?

    Javascript

    JavaScript is a high-level programming language. Specifically, it is a web scripting language. Like Java, it supports the object-oriented programming style. JavaScript was developed by Brendan Eich back on 4 th December 1995. Since then, JavaScript has become essential for websites. Almost every webpage today uses JavaScript for the front-end along with HTML and CSS.

    Unlike Java, JavaScript does not need any additional environments to run and execute its code. You can simply run your JS code on your web browser , and almost every web browser supports JavaScript. NodeJS is a JavaScript runtime environment that allows developers to use JavaScript for backend development and also to execute JS code outside the web browser.

    If you aspire to gain expertise in modern JavaScript, you can sign up for the course here .

    Why Use JavaScript?

    JAVAScript Logo

    It is easy to learn and follows a very simple approach to implementation. Beginners do not need any experience in programming to learn JavaScript . So, if you are a complete beginner, you can go with JavaScript and build your career.

    JavaScript Helps in Developing:

    • Dynamic web pages
    • GUI games

    Java vs JavaScript: A Difference Table

    Parameters Java JavaScript
    Language Type It is a high-level programming language. It is a high-level scripting language.
    Developed by Sun Microsystems, now owned by Oracle. Netscape on 4th December 1995.
    Code Execution Java needs a compiler to execute its code. It does not need a compiler to execute its code.
    Platform Java code runs on JVM (Java Virtual machine) that makes it platform-independent. JavaScript code can run on a web browser directly.
    Web development It is mostly used for back-end development . JS is mostly used for front-end development.
    Process Java supports multithreading. It is a special feature that allows the code to execute in two or more parts for the CPU does not get much load. JavaScript does not support multithreading.
    Language translator In Java, the code is first compiled and then interpreted. JavaScript is an interpreted programming language.
    Scope It has a block-based scope. It has a function-based scope and an object-based context.
    Security Java provides code security. Thus, the user cannot see your code. In JavaScript, there is no security. Anyone can see your code.
    File extension .java .js
    Used for Software development Web front-end development

    What Should a Beginner Choose Java or JavaScript?

    Before choosing any programming language , you should know why you want to learn this programming language. But if you are a complete beginner and have no idea about programming languages and you have to choose either from Java or JavaScript, you must go for JavaScript.

    Conclusion

    Both the languages belong to different fields. While Java helps to develop applications for different platforms, JavaScript is the backbone of websites. Now you know how Java and JavaScript are different from each other. Both programming languages have their pro and cons, and both are used for different purposes.

    If you ask us what programming language should I learn, we will say JavaScript. It is easy to learn, and you will find it very interesting when you write your own JavaScript code. On the other hand, Java is very hard to learn, but it is worth it. Both languages are very old and have a vast community across the world that is ready to help you when you are stuck with any problem.

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    FAQs


    While Java is an object-oriented, server-side programming language, JavaScript is an object-oriented, client-side scripting language.

    JavaScript is much easier to learn than Java. There is no need to have prior knowledge of using tools or any development kits to get started with web development using JavaScript.

    The choice of whether to learn Java or JavaScript first ultimately depends on personal preference and the project requirements. However, it is better to learn Java before JavaScript.

    No, Java and JavaScript are not related to each other. They both are extremely different languages. There is nothing to do with the name Java and JavaScript.

    No, it is not necessary to learn Java before JavaScript. You can get started with JavaScript anytime you wish.

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