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Difference Between Java and C++ Language | Java vs C++

Difference Between Java and C++ Language | Java vs C++

By Upskill Campus
Published Date:   4th June, 2024 Uploaded By:    Priyanka Yadav
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Java and C++ are two of the most popular programming languages used today. Each has its features and specific uses. In this article, we'll explore the principal difference between C++ and Java, look at how they are used in various industries, and see which one might be better for different purposes.


Understanding Java and C++


First, we would like to highlight the basic meaning of both popular languages. After that, we will highlight the C++ and Java differences. 


C++


C++ is a versatile programming language that builds on the C language by adding features for object-oriented programming. Moreover, it is imperative and compiled, meaning it follows a step-by-step approach and is turned into machine code that a computer can run. C++ supports important object-oriented concepts like inheritance, encapsulation, and polymorphism (both static and dynamic). As a result, you don't have to use classes and objects in C++, so it's considered a semi-object-oriented language.


Many big software companies, such as Microsoft and IBM, use C++. It’s used for creating desktop applications, video games, servers, e-commerce platforms, web search engines, and databases. C++ is also ideal for high-performance applications like telephone systems and space probes.


Applications of C++ Programming Language:


The following section will discuss some applications of the C++ programming language. After understanding the concept, we will move towards the prominent concept - the difference between Java and C++. 
 

  • Ideal for developing large software systems (e.g., passenger reservation systems).
  • MySQL database is in C++.
  • C++ is used in game development for fast execution.
  • Google Chromium browser, file systems, and cluster data processing are in C++.
  • Adobe applications like Premiere, Photoshop, and Illustrator were developed with C++.
  • C++ uses advanced computations and graphics, including real-time simulations and high-performance image processing.
  • It employs advanced medical equipment like MRI machines.


Features of Using C++ Programming Language


Here, we will discuss some advanced features and then elaborate on the difference between Java and C++. 
 

  • Static and Dynamic Memory Allocation: C++ allows static and dynamic memory allocation. Moreover, you can allocate memory to variables and objects at compile time (static) or runtime (dynamic). Functions like malloc(), calloc(), and realloc() use for dynamic memory allocation.
  • Creating Templates: C++ templates support generic programming. In addition, templates allow you to create generic functions or classes that operate with different data types.
  • Operator Overloading: C++ supports operator overloading, which lets you change the behavior of operators. For example, the "+" operator can add numbers or concatenate strings and add complex numbers.
  • Lambda Functions: C++ supports lambda expressions, which are anonymous functions.


C++ Code Example


// C++ program to print Hello world 

#include  

using namespace std; 

int main() 

cout << "Hello World" << endl; 

return 0; 

}

Here, we have provided you an example of C++ program. Now, we will describe the Java Programming Language. 


Java


Java was created in 1995 by James Gosling, a key figure in the software industry. Java is designed to be easy to use, reliable, secure, fast, portable, capable of handling multiple tasks at once, and dynamic. Nowadays, Java is very popular among mobile devices, internet programming, games, and online business.


Java allows developers to create scalable applications because it supports many useful features. It includes built-in frameworks like Spring and Dagger makes developing new applications. Also, Java simplifies development with tools like Applets, Servlets, and JavaServer Pages.


Applications of Java Programming Language


Now, it’s time to understand the Java’s application. Further, we will discuss C++ Java differences. 
 

  • Java creates graphical user interfaces (GUIs) for desktop applications.
  • It assists in developing Android apps and other mobile applications.
  • It uses embedded systems like SIM cards, disk players, and TVs.
  • Java EE provides tools and environments for running large-scale enterprise software.
  • Java is required for network applications and web services, including internet connections and web app development.


Advanced Features of Java:


Here, we will define some advanced features of Java Programming Language. Afterward, we will discuss the difference between Java and C++.

  • Write Once Run Anywhere (WORA): Java's WORA feature allows code written once to run on any system with Java installed, making it highly versatile.
  • Object-Oriented Programming: Java is exclusively object-oriented. In short, it focuses on classes and objects for programming.
  • Automated Memory Management and Multithreading: Java manages memory automatically and can handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Garbage Collection and Distributed Computing: Java's efficient garbage collection and network-friendly design make it popular for distributed computing tasks.
  • Dynamic and Extensible: Java is dynamic and easily extendable, allowing developers to adapt it to various needs.
  • Security and Reliability: Java is known for its strong security measures and robustness, making it a trusted choice for critical applications.


Java Code Examples


// Java program to print Hello world 

import java.io.*; 

class GFG { 

public static void main(String[] args) 

System.out.println("Hello World"); 

}


The above section has gone through the example of Java program. 


Difference Between Java and C++


Now, it’s high time to understand Java vs C++ in depth to clear all your doubts. 
 

Basis 

Java 

C++

Platform Independence

Java code can run on any system with Java installed.

C++ is platform-dependent.

Main Usage

It is commonly used for application programming, including Windows-based, web-based, enterprise, and mobile applications.

C++ is primarily used for system programming.

Design Goals

Programming Language - Java started as a printer interpreter but evolved for network computing, aiming for ease of use and accessibility.

C++ was designed for systems and applications programming, extending from C.

Language Features

It doesn't support goto, multiple inheritance (directly), operator overloading, pointers (publicly), structures, or unions.

C++ supports the goto statement, multiple inheritance, operator overloading, pointers, structures, and unions. 

Compiler and Interpreter

Java is compiled into bytecode and interpreted, making it platform-independent.

C++ is compiled only, leading to platform dependency. 

Hardware Interaction

This language is less interactive with hardware. As a result, it focuses more on software development.

C++ is closer to hardware.

Function Handling

It supports call-by-value only.

C++ supports both call-by-value and call-by-reference.

Inheritance and Virtual Methods

Java uses a single inheritance tree. In addition, Java methods are virtual by default. 

C++ creates separate inheritance trees. Moreover, C++ uses the virtual keyword for method overriding.

Thread Support and Documentation

It has built-in thread support and supports documentation comments.

C++ relies on third-party libraries for thread support and lacks documentation comments.


C++ and Java Which is Better?


Choosing between C++ and Java can be challenging because each has pros and cons. Java is great for software and web app development, while C++ shines in system programming, gaming, and low-level tasks. Picking the correct language depends on what your application needs.


C++ uses:
 

  • Creating game engines like Unreal Engine and games like Counter-Strike.
  • Developing operating systems like macOS and Windows.
  • Powering IoT devices, databases like MongoDB, machine learning with TensorFlow, and virtual reality experiences.
  • Building web browsers like Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.


On the other hand, Java finds its place in:
 

  • Cloud applications for storage, file-sharing, and virtual machines.
  • Mobile apps, including Android OS and Google applications.
  • IoT devices, enterprise software, and scientific applications like reservation systems.
  • Crafting Android games like Minecraft and chatbots for various platforms.


Conclusion


Java and C++ each have their strengths for different projects. Java is easy to use, works on many systems, and has multiple tools for web and big business projects. But if you need top-notch performance and control over how your program uses computer resources, C++ is the way to go. In short, we have provided the difference between Java and C++ for developers to move further.


Frequently Asked Questions


Q1. Does Java or C++ pay more?

Ans.Java pays more than C++ programming language.


Q2. Should I do DSA in Java or C++?

Ans.Many top coders prefer C++ for Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA) and Competitive Programming.


Q3. Which is better, C++ or Java, for placement?

Ans.When it comes to job placements, whether you know Java or C++ isn't the primary concern. What matters most are your skills in these areas:
Understanding Object-Oriented Programming (OOPS) Knowing the basics of Operating Systems (OS) Familiarity with Data Structures and Algorithms Being proficient in at least one programming language like Java, C++, or another you're comfortable with Having strong problem-solving abilities

 
 

 

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Upskill Campus

UpskillCampus provides career assistance facilities not only with their courses but with their applications from Salary builder to Career assistance, they also help School students with what an individual needs to opt for a better career.

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