Choosing the Best Language for Smart Contracts 🖊️: Solidity, Rust, or Beyond? 🤔

When venturing into the realm of blockchain technology, several pivotal questions often arise for developers, especially concerning the programming languages that can be utilised for creating smart contracts.

Can I use programming languages like javascript or Java or C# or ….. ?

No! A common misconception is that traditional programming languages like JavaScript, Java, or C# are suitable for this task. However, the reality is somewhat different.

Which programming language we should use for writing smart contracts ?

To engage in smart contract development, it is crucial to recognize that this is a specialised skill set that commands a high demand in the tech industry. Currently, the two primary languages for writing smart contracts are Solidity and Rust. These languages stand out in the blockchain domain much like JavaScript and C do in traditional software development.

Solidity: The JavaScript of Smart Contracts

Solidity is the most widely adopted language for developing smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain. It is also compatible with various Ethereum side-chains such as Polygon and Binance Smart Chain (BSC), making it a versatile and indispensable tool in the blockchain developer’s arsenal. Its syntax and structure are somewhat reminiscent of JavaScript, which makes it relatively accessible for developers who have experience with web development.

Rust: The C of Smart Contracts

On the other hand, Rust is valued for its performance and safety, particularly in system-level code scenarios. In the context of blockchain, Rust offers robustness and efficiency, characteristics that are crucial for the underlying mechanics of decentralised technologies.

Rust supports multiple blockchains like Solana , Polkadot, Near Protocol, Cosmos, Elrond etc.

While Solidity and Rust are currently the frontrunners in smart contract programming, the landscape is continually evolving with new languages being developed to address specific needs and challenges within the blockchain ecosystem. However, Solidity, with its widespread use and established presence, is likely to remain a mainstay in the development of Ethereum-based smart contracts for the foreseeable future.

Other Programming languages for writing smart contracts:

1. Vyper: Vyper is an alternative smart contract language for Ethereum that aims to be more secure and readable than Solidity. It has a Python-like syntax and restricts features that could potentially lead to security vulnerabilities. Vyper is often preferred for writing simpler, auditable contracts.
2. Liquidity: Liquidity is a high-level smart contract language for the Tezos blockchain. It is designed to be easy to learn and use, with a syntax inspired by OCaml. Liquidity provides strong static typing and formal verification features for writing secure contracts.
3. Michelson: Michelson is a low-level stack-based language used for smart contract development on the Tezos blockchain. It is designed to be simple and verifiable, making it suitable for formal verification techniques. Michelson contracts are typically compiled from higher-level languages like Liquidity.
4. Clarity: Clarity is a language specifically designed for smart contract development on the Stacks blockchain. It is based on functional programming principles and offers strong static typing and formal verification features. Clarity aims to provide clarity and predictability for smart contract behavior.
5. Move: Move is the programming language for the Diem (formerly Libra) blockchain. It is designed to provide safety, security, and programmability for digital assets and smart contracts. Move emphasizes resource-oriented programming and offers features for asset management and permissioning.