C++ vs Java

If you are interested to learn about the Features of java

There are many differences and similarities between the C++ programming language and Java. A list of top differences between C++ and Java are given below:

Note

• Java doesn’t support default arguments like C++.
• Java does not support header files like C++. Java uses the import keyword to include different classes and methods.

C++ Program Example

#include <iostream>  
using namespace std;  
int main() {  
   cout << "Hello C++ Programming";  
   return 0;  
}  

Output:

Hello C++ Programming

Java Program Example

class Simple{  
    public static void main(String args[]){  
     System.out.println("Hello Java");  
    }  
}  

Output:

Hello Java

C++ and Java: c

Java and C++ are similar in their type of programming language, use, and complexity. Java and C++ can be used to create applications, operating systems, web browsers, and parts of websites. They also have a similar syntax, meaning the way they are written is comparable. Think of this like Portuguese and Spanish – different languages with some similarities. Java and C++ use the same primitive data types and many of their keywords are the same, too. 

Both C++ and Java are object oriented programming languages. This is a modular approach to programming that supports:

• Inheritance of objects in classes
• Polymorphism (programs that use a function for more than one purpose)
• Abstraction (the ability to represent essential features without having to include background details)
• Encapsulation (allows data and functions to be wrapped into a single unit)

Should I Learn Java or C++ first?

Most programmers agree that Java is easier to learn first. Java’s syntax is usually easier for new programmers to understand. The syntax requirements in C++ are very strict. It is difficult to write C++ in a readable way and making a single mistake can set off a chain of errors. 

Since Java is more versatile, there are many Java job opportunities including Software Developer, Android Developer, and Web Developer. With cybersecurity becoming a major concern, learning Java may also be more relevant to your career goals. Learning C++ is great if you want to become a Software Developer. 

How is Java actually used by Developers?

Java can be used for a variety of high-level applications. Java is most popularly used for games, websites, and apps. Across the globe, Java is powering millions of mobile phones, televisions, enterprise applications, and more. 

With Java, you can create:

• Mobile applications, both on Android and Google OS
• Internet of Things (IoT) devices – Java connects devices like mobile phones, televisions, computers, or tablets to appliances or machines at home or in industries like healthcare, security, utilities, supply-chain management, and more. 
• Cloud applications, such as storage, file-sharing, virtual machines, sales software, email, messengers, and more.
• Secure, scalable web applications
• Chatbots
• Internet and Android games, such as Minecraft
• Enterprise applications, such as employee management, reservations, data storage, file sharing, and more.
• Scientific applications, such as healthcare and research computation, automation, and data storage. 

How is C++ Used in the Real World?

From game development to scientific applications and everything in between, C++ is secretly powering millions of devices we use every day. From computers to cell phones, video games to space research, you’ll find C++ just about everywhere. 

C++ is used to create:

• Operating systems – MacOS, Windows, iOS
• Game development, such as World of Warcraft, Counter-strike, and StarCraft. 
• Game engines, such as Unreal Engine, Xbox, Playstation, Nintendo Switch.
• Internet of Things (IoT) devices, such as televisions, cars, smartwatches, medical devices, appliances, and more. 
• Databases, such as MySQL and MongoDB
• Web browsers, such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, and Opera
• Machine learning, such as TensorFlow
• Virtual Reality (VR), such as Unreal Engine
• Scientific research, such as NASA and CERN
• Financial technology, such as trading, banking, financial modeling, etc.
• Flight software, such as military aircraft and commercial jets
• Google Search Engine
• Medical technology, such as MRI machines and data modeling
• Telecommunications, such as telephone, internet, and telecom infrastructure
• Movie production, such as special effects

The Disadvantages of Java

Java is an incredibly versatile and secure programming language, but, like every programming language, Java still has some downfalls. For one, Java is not suitable for low-level programming. Java is also memory-consuming and can be slower than C++. While C++ works natively (with the language the computer speaks), Java has to be compiled to be interpreted by the computer. 

Java performs automatic garbage collection, meaning the memory is controlled by the system. While automatic garbage collection can help memory and redundancy, it does consume more CPU time which can slow the application down. Along this same vein, Java does not backup data. For these reasons, Java requires a significant amount of memory and requires a longer runtime. That can mean that it’s slower. However, if it’s used appropriately with these hindrances in mind, it can run quickly and efficiently. 

The Disadvantages of C++

C++ is great for low-level programming, but C++ also has its own downsides. Firstly, C++ is not well-suited for larger or high-level programs. Unlike Java, C++ does not support garbage collection (automatic memory management) and dynamic memory allocation. C++’s lack of support for garbage collection can result in redundant data storage and an increase in memory use. However, some applications, like games, need this feature to avoid losing stored states. C++ is also 8-bit which can save memory and improve speed. C++ is not secure; pointers are what makes C++ insecure. Improper use of pointers can easily result in system failure or memory corruption. Debugging pointers is one of the most difficult aspects of learning C++.