C++ vs Java: Beginner Guide

Rahul B
3 min readJul 24, 2023

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Should I study C++ or Java? is a question that new programmers who want to learn well-known, supported languages may ask. Since Java was modelled after C++, these two programming languages have many features in common. Java is more frequently used for high-level programming, while C++ is more frequently used for low-level programming.

At a coding bootcamp, learning one of these programming languages can position you for a lucrative and safe job. Continue reading to learn about the similarities, differences, and applications of C++ and Java. Additionally, learn about the kind of employment you may get with C++ and Java, as well as how to start studying one of these programming languages.

What is Java?

Initially launched in 1995, Java is a multipurpose, object-oriented programming language. Millions of applications and websites run on Java. It is quick, safe, and trustworthy. Platform-independent Java runs on any computer thanks to a compiler. Java is used to execute applications on PCs, servers, gaming consoles, scientific supercomputers, mobile devices, web browsers, and websites. Java was used in the development of websites like Wikipedia, Minecraft, Android OS, LinkedIn, Uber, and the Mars Rover Controller.

What is C++?

A computer language called C++ is used to create websites, programmes, and other things. In 1985, the C++ programming language was created to introduce classes to C. With C++, programmers have more control over memory and system resources. Programmes created in C++ can be compiled in any location after just being authored once. No platform is independent of C++.

System programming, low-level applications, gaming, and native programming are where C++ excels. C++ excels in managing massive volumes of data like libraries, personnel, and reservations in corporate systems that are fast and scalable. C++ was used in part in the development of Apple OS, Mozilla Firefox, Adobe Photoshop, Spotify, Amazon, and Youtube.

C++ and Java: The Similarities

In terms of programming language type, application, and complexity, Java and C++ are comparable. Applications, operating systems, web browsers, and components of websites can all be made using Java and C++.

They are also written similarly because they have a similar grammar. Think of this as having some similarities to the differences between Portuguese and Spanish. The primitive data types used by Java and C++ are the same, and many of their keywords are as well.

Programming languages that are object-oriented include Java and C++. This programming method is modular and supports:

  • Object inheritance in classes
  • Polymorphism
  • Abstraction
  • Encapsulation

C++ and Java: The Differences

There are numerous distinctions between Java and C++, some of which are more subtle than others. The platform dependence, memory management, and class usage of C++ and Java are different.

This indicates that whilst C++ does not adhere to any particular root hierarchy, Java has a single root hierarchy. All classes in the majority of object-oriented programming languages inherit from a single root, either directly or indirectly. However, C++ was created to support multiple inheritance by not having a single object hierarchy. It’s a feature that is helpful for building libraries.

Should I Learn Java or C++ First?

Java is generally considered to be the easiest language to learn. For beginning programmers, Java’s grammar is typically easier to understand. C++ has extremely tight syntactic constraints. A single error might start a sequence of mistakes since writing C++ clearly is challenging.

Java employment options include software developer, android developer, and web developer due to Java’s greater versatility. Learning Java can also be more relevant to your job aspirations now that cybersecurity is a growing worry. It’s an excellent idea to learn C++ if you want to work as a software developer.

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Rahul B

Full Stack Developer 👨‍💻 • Blockchain & Web3 • Rust Programmer⚡ • Follow for Dev tips and tech news.