Java vs Javascript: What Are the Differences?

Posted on by

What makes an expert an expert? What can take someone from an amateur to a qualified professional?

The answer depends on the profession. However, a good baseline is proficiency in the basics. In the software industry, that’s knowing how to code.

If you want to get started in software development, the first step is learning the basics. Two of the most important basic coding languages are Java and JavaScript. You’ll learn a lot from reading our side-by-side comparison of Java vs JavaScript.

Core Language Structures

Encountering these two software for the first time might be confusing. One might ask, what is Java? What is JavaScript?

Java and JavaScript both belong to an extended family of languages called the c-family of languages. However, Java has a strong set of core language structures that have been compiled and run as a single unit. It is static, class-based, and heavily object-oriented.

JavaScript is an interpreted scripting language with a core structure that is prototype-based and allows for dynamic typing. Unlike Java, it is not a compiled language and the code is interpreted at the time of running the program. JavaScript also provides synchronicity and flexibility while executing in a browser or integrated into a mobile application.

Usability Across Platforms

Java applications are built to run on the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). With its cross-platform support feature, it is well-suited for desktop use. One of the best Java benefits is that it’s mighty when it comes to creating robust mobile applications. 

On the other hand, JavaScript does not require the user to install any platform-specific software, instead running directly within the web browser. JavaScript is a scripting language used to develop websites and web applications–not running programs on a desktop. 

Documentation & Support

Java is a strongly typed language and has more rigorous documentation. It is also subject to formal standards with multiple releases and updates. This allows debugging and cross-platform development.

With JavaScript, due to its dynamic nature, the language documentation is minimal and there is less formal support available. This does come with the benefit of being easier to get started due to less overhead setup. 

Compilation & Execution

Java is compiled into bytecode, a language-neutral code that can be interpreted by any platform and interpreted at run time. On the other hand, JavaScript does not get compiled, but it is parsed by the browser at runtime. This means that there is no separate compilation process, and the browser interprets the code as it is written.

Generally speaking, Java is more reliable and requires more setups to compile and run code. On the other hand, JavaScript is easier to set up and use as a script but still may lack some of the features associated with Java. You can inquire about Java services if you’re interested in helping your organization deliver this software properly.

The Difference Between Java vs JavaScript

The two software may be similar in name, but the fundamental differences between Java vs JavaScript make them incompatible. JavaScript is a scripting language used mainly by web developers, while Java is a programming language used in many different areas. It is recommended that you research both technologies to make a better-informed decision.

If you enjoyed this article, make sure that you explore the rest of our blog!