In this article, we focus on Kotlin and compare it to the most popular programming language. We try to prove which one is better for creating apps and software development!
Java is one of the most popular programming languages in the IT sector. Especially when it comes to Android mobile app development. Lately, Java has been losing its position in the market, because of the newer and faster player Kotlin. In media started to be loud about that language when Google in 2019 said that Kotlin is recommended for all Android apps.
What is Kotlin?
Kotlin is a programming language developed by JetBrains. This language was originally created to help and improve Java – thanks to that, these two programming languages may be used together. Kotlin is recommended to create all Androids apps, but its interoperability with Java has led it to be used with many application types.
Kotlin is useful not only in developing Android mobile apps. It is used in:
- Server-side development,
- Full-stack web development,
- Multiplatform mobile development,
- Data science.
Benefits of using Kotlin
Here are some of the key advantages of the newer programming language:
- Interoperability – Kotlin seamlessly interoperates with Java, sharing the same bytecode and allowing easy migration of Java applications. It can also be compiled into JavaScript or LLVM bytecode, enabling versatile execution environments. Kotlin’s compatibility and shared tooling with Java simplify integration and enhance performance for embedded code.
- Clarity – Kotlin reduces the redundancy found in popular languages like Java, making it a time-saving option for developers. Its concise syntax allows programmers to write code with less boilerplate, resulting in increased productivity.
- Safety – it is designed to prevent common coding errors that can lead to code breakage or vulnerabilities. The language incorporates null safety features, effectively eliminating null pointer exceptions and enhancing code reliability.
- Support of community – despite being a newer language compared to Java, Kotlin benefits from an active community of developers dedicated to enhancing the language and providing comprehensive documentation.
What is Java?
Java is one of the most popular programming languages in the whole world. It was developed by Sun Microsystem and published in 1995. The Java programming language was developed as part of a suite of Java technologies and was published by a company that was later acquired by Oracle in 2010.
Java is a highly versatile programming language that finds applications in various domains, such as app development (especially for Android), enterprise development, game development, Big Data, and desktop/web/IoT applications. Its versatility has had a significant impact on the development of numerous other programming languages. Languages like JavaScript, JS++, C#, Python, PHP, Scala, and even Kotlin have been influenced by Java.
Differences
Kotlin and Java are both statically typed, general-purpose programming languages. Kotlin is often seen as a viable alternative to Java, although it has a distinct syntax. However, it can seamlessly interoperate with Java code and libraries. Additionally, the newer one has its own set of libraries specifically designed for Android app development.
In comparison to Java, Kotlin offers:
- Simpler and more concise syntax,
- Beginner-friendly and easier to learn,
- Focuses on functional code and avoids repetitive boilerplate,
- No requirement for semicolons at the end of every line (optional usage),
- Incorporates additional features to reduce code complexity and length,
- Helps Kotlin teams achieve goals more efficiently.
Java might be preferred over Kotlin by Android developers who are new to Android software development. This preference stems from the abundance of historical Android documentation and examples written in Java. New developers may find it easier to engage with these resources in Java rather than converting them to Kotlin.
Moreover, Kotlin is a great programming language, not only for developing Android mobile apps. It has supporters and opponents. This one is surely simpler and more friendly for dev who just starting their developing adventure!
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