• C++ vs Java. Which is Better?

    7 min lesen

    November 16, 2023

    Inhaltsverzeichnis

    C++ and Java are both object-oriented programming languages, but they differ in key aspects. C++ is an object-oriented and procedural programming language derived from the C programming language. C++ is mainly used for application and system development, whereas Java is used to create virtual machines that contain entire libraries to support modern platforms.

    Java is primarily intended for applications that require interpreter capabilities, as well as for network computing. Let’s have a look at some of the key differences between C++ and Java.

    Learning C++ and Java provides a fundamental understanding of programming. Therefore, anyone starting with programming should master one or both of these languages before moving on to other languages and technologies. For this reason, C++ and/or Java are mandatory courses in programming schools and universities to give students a thorough understanding of the C programming language.

    For many years, both Java and C++ have been widely used in production. Both have the same syntax and provide performance for some of the largest enterprise systems on the market. Most C++ programmers will tell you that it is easy to port their code to Java since the styles and grammar are so similar.

    Both languages can be used for different applications. Since Java is the backbone of Android applications, it is preferred by mobile device developers. C++ is a low-level programming language used for low-level hardware and applications such as device drivers and network analysis tools. For clients, choosing the right platform can be difficult, as both can perform the same functions.

    What is C++?

    C++ is a computer programming language that combines the roots of the C programming language with Simula67 (the first object-oriented language). The concepts of class and object were introduced in C++. It contains both high-level and low-level language features. Therefore, it is classified as an intermediate language. Initially, it was called “C with Classes” because it includes all the features of the C programming language.

    • Used for simple GUI applications as well as colourful 3D games and real-time mathematical simulations.
    • Efficient, fast, and expressive.
    • Easily portable.
    • The best multi-device, multi-platform development platform.
    • Exception handling and function overloading are supported by the rich function library.

    What is Java?

    Java is a versatile programming language that can be used for a variety of tasks. It is used for mobile and desktop application development, big data processing, and embedded systems, among other things. According to Oracle, the company that owns Java, Java is used on 3 billion devices worldwide, making it one of the most popular programming languages.

    • Easy to compile, debug, learn, and write.
    • Supports multithreading, allowing software to perform multiple tasks simultaneously.
    • Enables the creation of object-oriented, modular applications and reusable code.
    • Supports automatic memory allocation and garbage collection, making migration from one system to another easier.

    Conclusion

    Both Java and C++ can be used to develop a wide range of applications. The choice of language depends on what is being developed.

    C++ is most commonly used for software that requires manipulation at the “hardware level.” One difference between C++ and Java is that C++ is closest to machine language, making it ideal for applications that need to execute quickly and interact directly with the memory, hard drive, CPU, or other hardware of the computer. C++ is widely used in gaming applications where performance is crucial.

    Although Java is capable of modifying hardware, it is not frequently used for low-level programming because it is considered a “safe” language. Java is chosen for high-level programs because it does not allow certain operations that could compromise PC security.

    Since Java is the backbone of Android programming, it is the language of choice if you want to develop an Android-specific application. Java is also widely used for online and desktop applications, as well as for server-side applications. Since Java is more widely known and adaptable than a “harder” language like C++, it is also easier to find a Java developer.

    C++ can generally be used for almost anything, but it is not necessarily required. Java is usually sufficient and can make your project much more efficient. You will find more Java-experienced developers, and if your developer moves on, you can easily continue where they left off.

    The simplest way to make a final decision is to post your project online and gather opinions from developers. They can advise you on which language is best suited for your project and help you find the best solution.

    ABOUT THE AUTHOR

    Anna Kotsyk

    Sales