So, you’ve decided to learn how to code? That’s a great move! Coding is a versatile skill that can help you in various fields, from web development to data science.
There are several popular programming languages for beginners. In this article, we will compare Java and Javascript – but which one should you tackle first?
If you are new to programming, then Java is the first coding language you should learn because it’s easier to get to grips with. While straightforward, Javascript soon scales into a very complex language with bug fixing and runtime issues that can quickly become time-consuming and frustrating.
However, if you are already familiar with coding or have some experience with other languages, then Javascript may be a better choice. It is versatile and widely seen as the front-end development champion with modern frameworks like ReactJS, AngularJS, and VueJS.
The Differences Between Javascript and Java
Let’s take a closer look at the key differences between these two programming languages to help your decision further.
Purpose
One key difference between these languages is their purpose. Java is a comprehensive language that can be used for various purposes in development, while JavaScript is used primarily to create a more interactive user experience on websites.
Another difference between Java and JavaScript is their usage in different industries. Java is most commonly used in the enterprise solutions and Android development industries, while JavaScript is mainly used in the website design industry.
Finally, Java has a broader range of applications than JavaScript, while JavaScript is mainly used to create interactivity on web pages.
Difficulty Rating to Master
Despite being widely used, Java is considered more challenging to learn than JavaScript at the start due to its numerous features and concepts.
Even the core part of the language, which includes various features such as inheritance, data abstraction, and polymorphism, is full of learning opportunities.
Although Java is a straightforward programming language, learning JavaScript is not as strict as it sounds. It is a scripting language that can be used to create web applications that are built using the built-in features of a browser, such as the JavaScript engine.
Learning the fundamental principles and concepts of JavaScript can be done in a couple of days.
Running the Code
Java code is compiled and run on a Java Virtual Machine, while web browsers interpret JavaScript code directly. This difference can lead to different performance outcomes.
Java code typically executes more quickly than JavaScript code, as the compiler can optimize it for the particular hardware it will be running on.
However, because the web browser itself executes JavaScript code, it can take advantage of the features of the specific device it is running on (including features that are not available on desktop computers).
This can result in more responsive user interfaces and better performance on devices with limited resources.
Standardization
One of the main reasons why Java is so popular among enterprise developers is its ability to be used in various situations.
This is because it follows clear documentation and coding standards, which makes it a reliable choice for businesses looking to develop long-term solutions.
In contrast, the JavaScript language’s ecosystem is disruptive and constantly changing, making predicting the future course of complex program development more difficult.
One of the main reasons why developing modern applications using JavaScript can often be more complex than using Java is that the documentation can be more problematic to follow because of this lack of standardization.
What Are the Benefits of Learning Java?
Java is a versatile language that benefits both beginners and experienced developers. Java is beginner-friendly because the code is easy to read, and many resources are available online and in print.
Java also has a competitive edge because it is a popular language many companies use for their applications. Plus, it’s updated frequently with new features, which keeps experienced developers interested and helps beginners learn the language effectively.
Additionally, Java code is portable between different platforms, meaning developers can write code once and deploy it on multiple devices or operating systems.
Java also has an extensive library of open-source software developers can use in their projects.
Finally, the two main editions – are Java Standard Edition (SE) and Java Enterprise Edition (EE). The SE edition is perfect for desktop applications, while the EE contains useful enterprise application features.
Additionally, the Java API provides a comprehensive collection of classes and methods developers can use in their projects.
What Are the Benefits of Learning Java Script?
There are several good resources available online for learning JavaScript. Codecademy offers an introductory course that covers the basics of the language.
If you want to go deeper, plenty of other courses, certifications from DataCamp, and tutorials are available online. Additionally, many excellent books on JavaScript programming are available from Amazon and other bookstores.
Career opportunities are also outstanding. According to Stack Overflow’s 2022 Developer Survey, JavaScript is the most popular language among developers, and US News ranks JavaScript as the sixth-best programming language for jobs.
In terms of salary, JavaScript developers earn an average of $105,000 per year in the United States, which is higher than the national average for all occupations.
This code is also versatile and used in many different ways. Developers can use JavaScript to create front-end web applications, back-end server-side applications, mobile and desktop apps, and more.
What Industries Use Java and JavaScript?
Generally speaking, almost every industry will use either Java or javascript in the tech stack. However, some exceptions exist where one language may have a stronger foothold.
For example, in the financial industry, Java is often used for server-side applications because of its reliability and ability to quickly process large amounts of data.
In contrast, JavaScript is more popular for front-end web development because of its interactivity and compatibility with web browsers.
The healthcare industry relies heavily on Java for its electronic health records (EHR) systems, while the retail sector uses JavaScript for its e-commerce applications.
Summing Up
Ultimately, deciding which language to learn depends on your personal preferences and career goals. Yes, Java has overall better documentation, follows stricter standards, and can be applied to a wide range of development projects once learned.
However, JavaScript is heavily focused on web development, is easy to start, and has a thriving community of developers constantly creating new tools and frameworks.
Both languages are versatile and have many benefits, so the best way to decide which is right for you is to check out some forums and learn the basics through Code Academy and other online resources.