Java vs C++: Comparison, Key Differences, and Similarities

Java vs C++ is two of the most used programming languages in various fields. On one side, we have Java, which Sun Microsystems developed in the year of 1991. On the other hand, we have C++, which is the upgraded version of the C programming language. Bjarne Stroustrup developed it in the year of 1985.

Both programming languages are very powerful languages that can be used for various purposes and tasks that you get to know later on.

Many big companies are now changing everything digitally. That said, programming languages give the best solution to cover everything. That’s the main reason why the IT sector is booming right now. As a result, you get the highest paying job if you are a professional or even if you are a beginner and just started your career in the IT sector. It is now easy to get a job.

If you are here, you probably do some research, But for those who don’t know anything about both the languages, i.e. Java vs C++. 

Don’t Worry About Your Comfort. 

Firstly we will give you a basic introduction to both languages. So the beginner doesn’t get confused, and then we move ahead.

In this blog, you’ll get to know the comparison between the language, key features, and similarities. So, let’s start from the Intro part, and then we move to the next step.

What is Java?

Java is one of the most popular programming languages developed by Sun Microsystems in 1991. Many software companies now use Java, and millions of developers around the globe use it. Java is a high-level programming language based on OOPs, Object-Oriented Programming and is designed to solve real-world problems. The concept that java follows is “write once and run anywhere” (WORA). As a result, the Java programming language can run on all the platforms that support it and don’t need any recompilation of code.

Application of Java used in Real-World

• Mostly used to build Android and Mobile apps.
• Internet and mobile games like Minecraft.
• Scientific application.
• Internet of Things (IoT) device.
• Java is also used to make Chat Boxes and many more.

What is C++?

As you know, C++ is the upgraded version of the C programming language. Bjarne Stroustrup developed it in 1985. C++ is a procedural programming code language. As a programmer, you can create applications, games, and other software with C++. As a result, many large companies use C++, and if you are a beginner, it will take time to learn C++. But once you get used to it, it’ll be easy for you, and it’s all about understanding language.

Application of C++ used in Real-World

• Databases are written in C++, for example, MySQL
• C++ is the better version of the C programming language.
• C++ is very fast, so as a result, it is mostly used to build games that need faster execution.
• Powerful Gaming Engines such as Playstation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and many more.
• You can also build operating systems like Windows, IOS, macOS, etc.
• Medical machines such as MRI Machines.

Brain Booster: Firstly, Java was initially called Oak, and then it was renamed Java in 1994. On the other hand, C++ was initially called C With Classes, and after some time, it got renamed C++ in 1983.

Java vs C++: Salary Comparison

The average annual salary of a professional Java developer is up to US$51,888. Whereas, C++ developer is roughly about US$54,049. 

Note: As per the Stack overflow Developer Survey Held in 2021.

So far, you have gained some basic knowledge of Java and C++.

The above topic gives you an idea of what a professional programmer/Developer can earn annually.

So, without wasting any time, let’s move to Java vs C++ trends.

Java vs C++: Google Trend

• Java 
• C++

In this graph, Java is denoted as Blue. Whereas, whereas C++ is denoted as Red. You can see that Java is up, and C++ is fairly down. As per the google trend, the graph shows the data for the past five years worldwide. As a result, the popularity of Java is more, but it is continuously decreasing, but the C++ is on the same path as when it was first released.

What is the main Difference Between Java vs C++?

Language type

Java is a partial language which means it is both a compiled and interpreted language. In contrast, C++ is only a compiled-based language.

Memory Management

In Java, Memory Management is controlled automatically by the system. In other words, it is system-controlled. On the other hand, in C++ programming language, it is Manual, or the programmer is responsible for memory management.

Inheritance

Java programming language only supports single inheritance. Whereas, C++ can support both the single and multiple inheritances.

Compatibility

Java is not compatible with any other language. However, its syntax is influenced by C++ and C. But C++ is compatible with C because C++ is the upgraded version of C.

Pointers

Java does not support Pointers because you can directly access data by using pointers, so for security purposes, Java doesn’t use pointers. Whereas C++ does support Pointers.

Cross-platform Dependency

Java is cross-platform independent, and it is portable, which means you do not need recompilation of data. On the other hand, C++ is cross-platform dependent, it is not portable. As a result, C++ needs to compile for every platform.

Data Overloading

Java does not support date overloading. But in C++, you can overload an operator.

Go-To statements

Java does not use Go-To statements. Whereas you can use Go-To statements in C++, it is not recommended to use them.

Above all are the key differences between Java and C++. However, these are not all the differences. We just provide you with some of the important ones.

Now, let’s look at some of the Similarities between Java vs C++.  

Java vs C++: Some Unique Similarities 

As per the basis of the developer, there are some similarities between Java and C++. 

Object-Oriented-Programming

Both languages support OOPs ( Object Oriented Programming ). As a result, both languages have features like Encapsulation, Inheritance, Polymorphism, Abstraction, etc. 

Syntax

Java and C++ syntax are mostly similar. Both the programming languages have similar syntax like classes, defining variables, looping structure, and conditional operators. As a result, some people use both languages at the same time. 

Example of Java:

class Simple{  

    public static void main(String args[]){  

     System.out.println(“Hello World”);  

    }  

}  

Example of C++:

#include <iostream>

int main() {

    std::cout << “Hello World!”;

    return 0;

}

The output of both Java and C++ is the same.

OUTPUT: Hello World

Same Arithmetic and Relational Operator

Both programming languages have the same Arithmetic and Relational Operators. 

Like Arithmetic operators such as +, -, *, /

Relational operators such as >, <, =, != (not equal to)

Comparison in Tabular form: Java vs C++

In Conclusion

Java and C++ are two of the most popular programming languages globally. They are used for various purposes, but the most common use case is for writing computer software. This blog will help you decide which language is best for your needs.

Java and C++ are two different programming languages with different strengths and weaknesses. On the other hand, Java is an object-oriented programming language developed by Sun Microsystems in 1991 as a platform-independent language. Java can be used to create both desktop applications and web applications. Whereas, C++ can only be used to create desktop applications. 

Java has a simpler syntax than C++, making it easier to learn if you have no previous experience with programming languages. One of the benefits of using C++ over Java is that it offers better performance when performing system-level tasks such as file I/O and memory allocation.

It is difficult to say which programming language (Java vs C++) is better than the others. Java vs C++ have their features, advantages, and disadvantages simultaneously. As a result, both languages can be used to build a wide variety of applications.

It is always challenging to decide which is better, Java vs C++. This question seems like an old question.

That is pretty much it for today, I hope you like it!