Should you learn Java or Javascript?

Learning a programming language can open career doors and boost your earning potential. But what's the difference between Java and Javascript, and which programming language should you learn?

What is Java?

Java dates back to 1995, and decades later, it's still one of the most popular programming languages. Because of its long history, you'll benefit from numerous learning resources if you decide to learn Java.

At its core, Java prioritizes “write once, run anywhere." While some programming languages struggle with cross-platform functionality, Java can make the leap. That can make it a good option for any cross-platform programming needs, including cloud computing.

Why you should learn Java

Learning Java can prepare you for careers in cloud computing, game development, or big data.

Benefits of learning Java

• Community support and learning resources: Java has been around the block, so you'll benefit from a broad community of developers to help you through coding challenges.
• Save time with developer tools: You don't need to reinvent the wheel to use Java, since you'll have libraries, in-built functions, and automated development tools to help you.
• Platform neutrality: Want to create a game that will run on Windows or iOS? Or are you developing a cloud-based app that users will run on different operating systems? Java has the platform independence that you'll need.

Are there drawbacks to Java?

Most programmers consider Java one of the harder languages for beginners. If you're choosing your first programming language, Javascript is generally considered a better choice. That's because Java has a lot of syntax and an object-oriented approach, which can be challenging for first-timers.

What is Javascript?

Like Java, Javascript also dates back to 1995. But don't let the similarities in their name and history confuse you — there's a big difference between Java and Javascript.

Javascript is the programming language of the web. If you're on the internet, you're benefiting from Javascript, which codes interactive maps, animated graphics, and mobile-friendly user interfaces. Common job titles include front-end developer, mobile app developer, and full-stack developer.

Why you should learn Javascript

If you're interested in web development, Javascript is the language to learn.

Benefits of learning Javascript

• Prepare for careers in web development: You'll need to know Javascript to work in web development, mobile app development, and other web-based tech careers.
• Community support and learning resources: Like Java, Javascript has been around for decades. So you'll find many learning resources and a supportive community when you're learning Javascript.
• A good first programming language: In comparison with Java or other programming languages like Python and C++, Javascript is considered less complex, which can make it easier to learn. It's also one of the most popular programming languages.

Are there drawbacks to Javascript?

While it's a good first programming language, that doesn't mean Javascript is easy. Beginners can feel overwhelmed with the many ways to achieve the same result in Javascript — though once you're more experienced, that can be freeing.

Where Java and Javascript overlap

If you're earning a bachelor's in computer science or a bachelor's in computer programming, you'll probably study Java and Javascript. But if you're trying to choose one programming language to learn first, consider where they overlap.

Both Java and Javascript are object-oriented programming languages, and they both fall into the C class of programming languages.

Java became incredibly popular with its release in 1995, inspiring the creator of Javascript to model the language on Java. Because of their history, the two languages have many learning resources available to students.

Snapshot of Java vs. Javascript