Java versus Kotlin, most coding apps are used based on preference than advantages. Some are client-based, web-based, or server-side. Some are qualified for frontend developers, others best suited for backend developers. The point is futile. But, there are main differences in both apps if you are looking to learn how to code.
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What is Kotlin used for?
It is among one of the main coding languages for android development. The language is a general, open-source programming language. Created by JetBrains, to not be unique but derived from many other existing languages. These languages include Java, Scala, and C#. Since February 2016, Kotlin became officially supported by Google for Android development. In regards to android projects, numerous designed with it in mind. A considerable amount of Android APIs is written in Java. Since it is interchangeable with Java it has led to the coding language growth.
What is Kotlin written in?
Kotlin is written in Java Virtual Machine since its development is interoperability with Java. As quoted in its FAQ, it is 100% interoperable with the Java programming language. A significant advantage is Java can accurately interact with Kotlin. Even so, you'll never become confused because both languages distinguish themselves from each other.
Should I learn Kotlin or Java?
Finally, here we have arrived at the long-awaited debate. Which coding language is better? If we compared, Java is like Michal Jordan in the 90s, and Kotlin is Lebron James. Both are very accomplished players, but Michael Jordan changed the game. His unrivaled athleticism made basketball a global sport. Java is the same thing. The first coding language became public in 1956, called FORTRAN. In 26 years, Java has taken the world by storm. For perspective, more than 90% of Fortune 500 companies use the language. Lebron James is the newer MVP, unrivaled. But he won't compare to Jordan because Jordan is just a once-in-a-lifetime talent. It can't overtake Java. In terms of popularity and usefulness. Java is the literal language that Android was created on. Although, it depends. If you are a beginner, the best language to learn first would be Java. If you already know Java and want to develop Android software. Then, Kotlin is where you should start.
Is Kotlin easier than Java?
Both languages have their advantages, but because of how new it is. It can be harder to learn without learning Java first. Let's compare both languages. To see which one best suits your needs.
Java was created to be an objected-oriented programming language. Due to its nearly ancient age, (in technology years) Java does a lot more than develop android apps. Between both languages, Java offers a lot more job opportunities.
Pros of Java
- Easy language that most beginners understand
- Works well among native software and found in many cross-platform applications
- Due to Java's age, many programming languages rely on Java and vice versa
- Java's apps aren't as heavy, (if programming on a computer with low processing power, it's best to use Java for a faster app experience)
Cons of Java
- Java is heavily typing based, which means you have to write a lot more code, increasing the chance of mistakes (Not to worry, Java is so widespread there are millions of people online who can help)
- Java experiences problems with Android API design
- Java requires more memory (short term data) than other languages tending to slow the program as a whole
Kotlin
It was a shot in the dark. Around the time when android development needed a more modern language; to adhere to mobile development, they created it. The language was designed to be an open-source, statically typed language based on Java Virtual Machine. To elaborate, statically typed means it is part business logic, and part user interface. The main advantage with it is that you can transfer it to Javascript and interoperate it with Java.
Pros of Kotlin
- One of the benefits of newer coding languages is that it is much more efficient. it is faster to write in. It is much faster due to its usage of concise syntax. It's an advantage, making texts shorter and easier to read but is often more difficult and easier to make mistakes in.
- Easy to read APIs
- Easily interact with Java libraries and frameworks
- Java doesn't have a null in its typing system. It lets you use it, making coding much less complicated.
Cons of Kotlin
- Mostly made up of concise syntax (requires previous experience)
- The program has not been around for long, so the resources to help you are limited.
All in all, it depends on what your goals are. Just keep in mind, Java isn't going away anytime soon. If you want to become a software developer, you need to have experience with Java. Even so, Kotlin is incredibly efficient and it seems it's only the beginning before we see what the new competitor is capable of.
