Difference Between Java and JavaScript: A brief Comparison in 2020 | Idea Usher

3 min readOct 8, 2020

Difference between Java and JavaScript: best vs. best

Difference between Java and JavaScript: which is better, and why? We’ll reveal the difference between Java and JavaScript today. The name for both starts with “Java” and confuses many. However, both are worlds apart- as told by Idea Usher experts. And we’re going to tell you just everything you need to know in this regard. Let’s begin.

What is Java?

Java is used for general programming and building logic. Also, Java is a class-based and an object-oriented programming language. It’s a computing program in a nutshell. Once a Java code is written, it can be run anywhere.

Uses of Java

Development of cloud-based applications.
Big data analytics.
Mobile and desktop GUI applications.
Gaming applications development solutions.
Enterprise and scientific applications.

What is Javascript?

Web developers use Javascript to create animations on a website. The Javascript programming language has evolved over the years. It acts as a jetpack for interactive websites. Hence, it’s essentially a scripting language for web development.

Uses of Javascript

Web development.
Web application development.
Server application development.
Mobile application animations

Is there a difference between Java and JavaScript?

The answer is yes! From the definitions so far, we’ve learned that Java is a programming language. On the other hand, Javascript is a scripting language. Both serve distinct purposes, with limited common grounds. There are several differences between Java and Javascript.

What’s the difference between Java and JavaScript?

Let us finally go through the differences between Javascript and Java. In addition to it, we have some tips on how to choose which and when. Read until the end to find out more!

Main difference

The difference between them is that the former is a programming language. In comparison, the latter is a scripting language.

Language base

One of the salient differences between Java and Javascript is the use of objects. Java is an object-oriented language. In contrast, Javascript is an object-based scripting language.

With one of the many differences between Javascript and Java, the latter is prototype-based. The same can’t be said for Java; all changes are made inside classes.

Running environment

Applications made on Java can run anywhere. Remember the “write once, run anywhere“? It holds true here. For Javascript, the run environment is via Server Node.js.

File extensions

All the Java files are with “.Java” extension wherever for Javascript, it is “.js.”

Memory usage

Javascript codes require less storage than Java to be run in an environment. Memory usage is often a major deciding factor when we talk about the difference between them.

Concurrency

Java works with the approach of thread concurrency. Meanwhile, Javascript favors events based on concurrency.

Now we’ve learned the major set of differences between Java and JavaScript. Now let’s see which one to use and when.

When to choose Java?

Let’s look at some cases where the preference of Java should help your next project.

When you require exceptional support from a global community of members.
Use Java when you’re looking for rich APIs.
When you need to make versatile applications that can be run on any device.
Use java when documentation support requirements are paramount.

When to choose Javascript?

Let’s look at some cases where the preference of Javascript should help your next project.

Choose Javascript when you need one language for frontend and backend development.
When you need lightweight codes, use Javascript for smooth executions.
If you need natural learning to be comfortable and quick, use Javascript.