Java vs. JavaScript: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 19, 2023
Java is an object-oriented programming language; JavaScript is a scripting language for web browsers.
Key Differences
Java is a widely-used, object-oriented programming language developed by Sun Microsystems, which is now owned by Oracle. JavaScript, despite its name, is not directly related to Java and was developed by Netscape as a lightweight, client-side scripting language for web browsers.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Java applications are typically standalone programs or backend applications running on servers. These applications are written using the Java programming language and require the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) to run. On the other hand, JavaScript is primarily embedded within HTML documents and runs directly in the web browser, interacting with the Document Object Model (DOM) of a web page.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Java is compiled into bytecode, which is then interpreted by the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) on the end-user's machine or server. This makes Java platform-independent as the bytecode can be executed on any machine with a JVM. In contrast, JavaScript is interpreted directly by the web browser in which it's running, without the need for compilation.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Java requires explicit data type declarations for variables, emphasizing strong typing, which can lead to fewer runtime errors related to type mismatch. JavaScript is dynamically typed, meaning the data type of a variable is determined at runtime based on the value it holds, offering more flexibility but also potential pitfalls.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
While both Java and JavaScript can be used for web development, they serve different purposes. Java often powers server-side applications, applets, and Android apps, while JavaScript enhances interactivity and dynamics on the client side of web applications.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Relation to Web
Often for server-side or applets
Primarily for client-side scripting
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Platform Dependency
Platform-independent (runs on JVM)
Depends on browser support
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
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Java and JavaScript Definitions
Java
Java applications run on the Java Virtual Machine (JVM).
To execute the Java program, ensure the JVM is installed.
Sara Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
JavaScript
JavaScript is interpreted by web browsers.
The JavaScript code runs directly in the Chrome browser.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Java
Java is used for both web and standalone applications.
Her enterprise software is built using Java.
Harlon Moss
Oct 19, 2023
JavaScript
JavaScript enhances web interactivity and dynamics.
To improve user experience, he incorporated JavaScript functions.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 19, 2023
Java
Java is an object-oriented programming language.
He developed a mobile app using Java.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 19, 2023
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JavaScript
JavaScript is a scripting language for web browsers.
She added animations to her website using JavaScript.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Java
Java was developed by Sun Microsystems.
Java's history traces back to its creation at Sun Microsystems.
Janet White
Oct 19, 2023
JavaScript
JavaScript interacts with the Document Object Model (DOM).
Using JavaScript, he dynamically modified the web page's DOM.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Java
Java programs are compiled to bytecode.
After writing the Java code, she compiled it to bytecode.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
JavaScript
JavaScript was developed by Netscape.
Netscape's contribution to web development includes the invention of JavaScript.
Sara Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
FAQs
Where is JavaScript primarily executed?
JavaScript is executed in web browsers.
Harlon Moss
Oct 19, 2023
Is JavaScript a version or subset of Java?
No, JavaScript and Java are distinct and unrelated languages.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 19, 2023
What's the primary platform for Java applications?
Java applications often run on servers, desktops, and Android devices.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Can Java run in a browser?
Historically, Java could run in browsers as applets, but this is now largely obsolete.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Can JavaScript run outside of a browser?
Yes, with environments like Node.js, JavaScript can run server-side.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 19, 2023
Are Java and JavaScript syntax similar?
They share some similarities due to C-like syntax, but they're fundamentally different.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
What does Java stand for?
Java doesn't stand for anything; it's named after Java coffee, suggesting its developers' preference for coffee.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Which language is older, Java or JavaScript?
Java predates JavaScript by a short period.
Janet White
Oct 19, 2023
Is JavaScript faster than Java?
It depends on the use case; JavaScript may be faster for web tasks, while Java is optimized for heavy computations.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 19, 2023
Why is Java's write-once-run-anywhere significant?
It means developers can write Java code once and run it on any device with a JVM, ensuring platform independence.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 19, 2023
Is JavaScript only for web developers?
While its mainstay is web development, JavaScript is also used in other areas like server-side programming.
Janet White
Oct 19, 2023
Does JavaScript support object-oriented programming?
Yes, JavaScript supports OOP, though its implementation differs from classical OOP languages.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Are there any similarities between Java and JavaScript?
Beyond some syntactic similarities, both can be used in web contexts, but their primary purposes and operations differ.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Can I use JavaScript for backend development?
Yes, using environments like Node.js, JavaScript can power backend applications.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Are Java applets still in use?
Java applets have largely become obsolete due to security concerns and modern web technologies.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
What's the main paradigm of Java?
Java is primarily an object-oriented programming language.
Harlon Moss
Oct 19, 2023
Is Java platform-dependent?
No, Java is platform-independent due to its bytecode and JVM system.
Janet White
Oct 19, 2023
Can I build mobile apps with Java?
Yes, Java is the primary language for Android app development.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Which companies developed Java and JavaScript?
Java was developed by Sun Microsystems, and JavaScript by Netscape.
Harlon Moss
Oct 19, 2023
Is Java used in web development?
Yes, Java is used in server-side web development, especially with frameworks like Spring.
Harlon Moss
Oct 19, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
