C++ vs. Java: What Should be Used When

by

C++ vs. Java: What Should be Used When

In the programming world, there are a handful of programming languages for you to learn and use. It all comes down to your goals when choosing a programming language. From many choices, the developers mainly choose C++ and Java, which are two of them. But to learn and use them appropriately, one should be aware of when to use them. 

So this article will talk to you about when they should be used and their advantages, which will hopefully guide you in making the choice that best fits your plans. 

When Should They Be Used?

The programming languages we are discussing have specific applications and sometimes share features. Choosing between C++ and Java will require careful consideration of their respective applications. 

Developers use C++ to create operating systems, video game development, IoT devices, databases, web browsers, and AR/VR applications. In contrast, Java is used to develop Android apps, create enterprise software, create scientific computing applications, manage application servers, design wearable technology, and launch e-commerce portals. 

  • C++ is frequently used for large-scale development, such as for banks or governments. In contrast, Java is more frequently used to produce consumer goods like software, video games, and apps.
  • Java is the best platform for building simple mobile applications, so if you want to start your own app development business, it is where you should start. 
  • Well-known companies like Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Apple use C++. Consider learning it if working for one of these tech behemoths is your dream job.
  • Programmers frequently pick up additional languages. Since Java borrows syntax from C++, learning it is simple if you first learn C plus plus.

Check out the advantages of both programming languages down below to get a clear idea of where and when to use them.

Advantages of Learning C++

As mentioned above, C plus plus has various advantages since almost all the programs and systems you use, or a part of their codebase, are written either in C or C plus plus. Today, you can find it in almost every application. Here are some intriguing advantages of the language:

  • High-Paying Jobs and Career Opportunities
  • Object Oriented Programming Language
  • Very Strong Library Support and A Sizable Community
  • Speedy Compilation and Execution 

1. High-Paying Jobs and Career Opportunities

Learning the programming language can offer you a highly paid job, and other career prospects since developers are specialised and in high demand among software developers. They are paid more than the Java developers. 

2. Object Oriented Programming Language

It is much easier to manipulate code because it is an object-oriented programming language, as opposed to procedural or structured programming, which requires a series of computational steps to be carried out.

3. Very Strong Library Support and A Sizable Community

The language can provide you with a rich support library, i.e., the Standard Template Library (STL), to help you write the code quickly and efficiently. The excellent support offered by the library will also relieve the programmers of the burden of writing their codes from scratch.

  • Since this coding language is old, there is a sizable community online to support aspiring developers. 
  • The community can help them when they are in need and offer them solutions to their roadblocks in programming.

4. Speedy Compilation and Execution 

In terms of the speed of the compilation and execution of the codes, no other general-purpose programming language can beat C++. So it is the preferred choice of many developers when they need faster compilation and execution.

Advantages of Learning Java

The Java programming language is regarded as one of the most powerful and versatile languages ever created and is the most widely used programming language in many fields. It is a general-purpose, object-oriented programming language that aids in developing software for all platforms. It has many benefits that will entice you to stick with it. Check out the advantages of learning and using the programming language.

  • Easy to Learn
  • High Level Programming Language
  • Follows the Write Once and Run Anywhere (WORA) Technique
  • Secure Language

1. Easy to Learn

The programming language has a smaller learning curve because it is a newer language than C++. So it will be less complex in its principles and execution. It is not as difficult to learn and use as other programming languages. 

  • It is simple to write, learn, maintain, and understand, and the code is simple to debug. 
  • As was already mentioned, the programming language’s syntax is simple and was taken from C++. Therefore, it will be much easier if you have a fundamental understanding of the language.

2. High Level Programming Language

It is a high-level programming language because it is a language that can be understood by humans. Similar to human language, it has an easy-to-maintain syntax similar to that of C++ but in a simpler format.

3. Follows the Write Once and Run Anywhere (WORA) Technique

The WORA technique used by the language allows your written code to run on any operating system. It means the language is platform-independent. It is one of the main reasons Java is learned and used extensively in the programming world and is popular among fellow developers. Learning the programming language allows one to work on various operating systems without hesitation.

4. Secure Language

It does not use explicit pointers to avoid security threats and risks. The concept of pointers is removed from the programming language, which you use to store the memory address of another value. It is because it caused unauthorised memory access. The security manager in Java resolved the issue by defining class access rules. So if you want a secure language, this is a better option.

As you can see, both programming languages have a plethora of benefits and uses. Sometimes they also have drawbacks. The list above includes a few of them. Now that you are aware of them, you can use and learn them. They can only be chosen after you have identified your specific goals and requirements. Decide which of the two is best for you. 

Interesting Links: 

What is the difference between Java and C++

Why is Java better than C++?

Leave a Comment