What is the difference between Java and JavaScript?

Because of the similar name, many people assume that JavaScript is similar to the Java language. But it's not true. Similar like water and watermelon, JavaScript has nothing to do with Java. They only share a common word "Java”. In this geek story, we'll find out the difference between JavaScript and Java, which will help you to understand both languages easily and their use cases.

What is Java and JavaScript?

Java is a general purpose programming language which was developed by Sun Microsystems with one mantra in mind - "write once, run anywhere". Where JavaScript is a client side scripting language for HTML, which was developed by Netscape, Inc. After the node.js, JavaScript is not just a client side scripting language. Now, not only you can use JavaScript in your server, but also do object oriented development.

1. Origin and Purpose

Java:

• Origin: Developed by Sun Microsystems in the mid-1990s.
• Purpose: Initially designed for embedded systems, it evolved into a general-purpose, class-based, object-oriented programming language. It's often used for building enterprise-level applications, mobile applications (Android), and large-scale systems.

JavaScript:

• Origin: Created by Netscape in 1995.
• Purpose: Initially conceived for client-side scripting in web browsers, JavaScript has grown to become a versatile scripting language. It's primarily used for enhancing web pages interactivity, creating dynamic content, and building web applications.

2. Type of Language

Java:

• Type: Compiled and statically typed language.
• Execution: Java code is compiled into bytecode, which is then executed by the Java Virtual Machine (JVM).

JavaScript:

• Type: Interpreted and dynamically typed language.
• Execution: JavaScript code is executed directly by web browsers.

3. Usage and Application

Java:

• Usage: Widely used for building large-scale, enterprise-level applications, mobile applications, and server-side development.
• Application: Commonly used in backend development, Android app development, and in frameworks like Spring for enterprise applications.

JavaScript:

• Usage: Primarily employed for client-side scripting in web browsers.
• Application: Used to create dynamic and interactive user interfaces, client-side web applications, and server-side development (Node.js).

4. Platform Dependency

Java:

• Platform Independence: Famous for its "Write Once, Run Anywhere" philosophy. Java code can run on any device with a Java Virtual Machine (JVM).

JavaScript:

• Platform Dependency: Executed by web browsers on the client side; its server-side applications are platform-independent due to the nature of server environments.

5. Syntax and Structure

Java:

• Syntax: C-based syntax, featuring strong object-oriented programming principles.
• Structure: Organized into classes and follows a strictly-typed structure.

JavaScript:

• Syntax: Prototype-based scripting language with a syntax influenced by C. It supports object-oriented, imperative, and declarative programming styles.
• Structure: Prototypal inheritance and follows a loosely-typed structure.

6. Threading and Concurrency

Java:

• Threading: Java supports multi-threading and concurrency with built-in features for thread management.

JavaScript:

• Threading: JavaScript in web browsers is single-threaded, but asynchronous operations are handled through mechanisms like callbacks and Promises.

Conclusion

In summary, while Java and JavaScript share a portion of their names and some basic syntax elements, they serve different purposes and operate in distinct environments. Java is a robust, versatile language suitable for building large-scale applications, while JavaScript is a dynamic, client-side scripting language pivotal for web development. Understanding their differences is crucial for developers choosing the right tool for the job.