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Table of contents
1.
Introduction
2.
Differences Between C++ Vs Java
3.
What is C++?
4.
What is Java?
5.
Applications of C++ Programming Language
6.
Applications of Java Programming Language
7.
C++ Program Example
7.1.
Implementation
8.
Java Program Example
8.1.
Implementation 
9.
Frequently Asked Questions
9.1.
Q. Is Java better than C++?
9.2.
Q. Is C++ harder than Java?
9.3.
Q. What should I learn first, Java or C++?
9.4.
Q. Is C++ a dying language?
9.5.
Q. Which is more powerful, Java or C++?
10.
Conclusion
Last Updated: Jun 10, 2024
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Difference Between C++ and Java

Introduction

C++ is known for high-performance and system-level programming, offering low-level control but increased complexity. Java prioritizes portability and security, making it ideal for web, mobile, and enterprise applications.

The general preference for using either C++ or Java highly depends on the requirement. While C++ is much better for networking or hardware-related tasks, Java is portable and versatile. Java programs can easily be migrated and run elsewhere while it has a massive number of developers proficient in this language.

C++ vs Java

In this article, we will discuss C++ and Java or the Differences between C++ and Java and their importance. We will also look into an example of each.

Differences Between C++ Vs Java

Explore key distinctions and commonalities of the C++ and Java programming languages in the following list. Discover top variations between C++ and Java for better understanding.

BasisC++Java
Platform DependencyC++ code is platform-dependent, meaning that code written in C++ may need to be recompiled to run on different platforms.Java is platform-independent. Java code is compiled into bytecode, which can run on any platform.
Primarily Used ForIt is often used for system-level programming, game development, embedded systems, and performance-critical applications.It is commonly used for web applications, mobile app development (Android), enterprise software, etc.
Goal of DesignC++ was designed with a focus on performance and efficiency, allowing low-level memory manipulation.Java was designed with a focus on portability, simplicity, and ease of use, promoting platform independence and security
Goto

C++ supports the use of the "goto" statement for branching.

 

Java omits support for the "goto" statement for reasons related to code readability.
Inheritance from Multiple SourcesC++ supports multiple inheritance, meaning a class can inherit from multiple base classes.

Java allows multiple inheritance through interfaces, which are a way to achieve similar functionality.

 

Operator OverloadingC++ supports operator overloading, allowing you to define custom behaviors for operators like "+", "-", etc.Java does not support operator overloading for custom types. Operator behavior is fixed for built-in types.
Pointers

C++ includes pointers, which allow direct memory manipulation and access.

 

Java does not include explicit pointers; instead, it uses references to objects, and memory management is handled automatically by the JVM.
Compiled vs. InterpretedC++ code is compiled into machine code or native code specific to the target platform.

Java code is compiled into bytecode and then interpreted by the JVM at runtime.

 

Memory ManagementMemory management in C++ is manual and requires explicit allocation and deallocation of memoryJava provides automatic memory management through garbage collection, freeing developers from manual memory management tasks.
Level of ProgrammingC++ allows both high-level and low-level programming, making it suitable for system-level and performance-critical tasks.

Java is primarily a high-level language with a focus on simplicity and portability.

 

Structure and UnionC++ supports structures and unions, which are used for grouping related data members.Java does not have built-in support for structures or unions; instead, it uses classes for data encapsulation.
Thread SupportC++ provides thread support through libraries like POSIX threads or C++11's standard thread library.Java has built-in support for multithreading, making it easy to create and manage threads.
Root Hierarchy

C++ does not have a strict root hierarchy for classes.

 

Java has the "Object" class as the root of its class hierarchy.
Native LibrariesC++ can easily interface with native libraries and system functions.Java can interface with native libraries through the use of the Java Native Interface (JNI).
HardwareC++ code can be closely tied to hardware and is often used for hardware-level programming.Java abstracts hardware access, making it less suitable for low-level hardware programming.
Object-OrientedC++ is a multi-paradigm language that supports both object-oriented and procedural programming.Java is primarily an object-oriented language with a strong emphasis on object encapsulation and inheritance.
 

 

Must Read Dynamic Binding in C++

What is C++?

C++ is a general-purpose, high-level programming language developed as an extension of the C programming language. It combines both procedural and object-oriented programming features, offering a rich set of tools and libraries for system-level and application-level software development. C++ is known for its performance, efficiency, and versatility, making it widely used in areas like game development, system programming, and application development.

What is Java?

Java is a versatile, high-level, and object-oriented programming language known for its platform independence. It is designed to be "write once, run anywhere" and runs on the Java Virtual Machine (JVM), making it suitable for a wide range of applications, including web development, mobile app development (Android), and enterprise-level software. Java is appreciated for its portability, strong security features, and extensive libraries and frameworks.

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Applications of C++ Programming Language

  • System Software Development: C++ is commonly used for building operating systems, device drivers, and other system software due to its ability to interact closely with hardware.
     
  • Game Development: Many computer and console games are developed using C++ because of its performance capabilities and direct access to hardware resources.
     
  • Embedded Systems: C++ is favored in embedded systems programming for devices like microcontrollers, where efficiency and control over hardware are crucial.
     
  • Performance-Critical Applications: Applications that require high performance, such as real-time simulations and scientific computing, often use C++ for its efficiency.
     
  • Graphics and Multimedia: C++ is used in graphics libraries and multimedia applications to manage graphical elements efficiently.
     

Applications of Java Programming Language

  • Web Development: Java is widely used for building dynamic web applications, including server-side components, web services, and web-based enterprise software.
     
  • Mobile App Development: Java is the primary language for Android app development, making it a key choice for mobile application developers.
     
  • Enterprise Software: Java is commonly used in large-scale enterprise applications, such as customer relationship management (CRM) systems and financial software.
     
  • Distributed Systems: Java's platform independence and robust networking capabilities make it suitable for building distributed systems and networked applications.
     
  • Desktop Applications: Java Swing and JavaFX libraries are used to create cross-platform desktop applications with graphical user interfaces.

C++ Program Example

Let's see a basic program in C++ to find out whether a number is even or odd.
 

Implementation

 

#include <iostream>
using namespace std;
int main() {
 int number =100;
 if (number % 2 == 0) {
   cout << number << " is an even number." << endl;
 } 
 else {
   cout << number << " is an odd number." << endl;
 }
 return 0;
}
You can also try this code with Online C++ Compiler
Run Code

 

Output:

100 is an even number.

Java Program Example

Let's see a basic program in Java to find out whether a number is even or odd.
 

Implementation 

 

import java.util.Scanner;
public class Odd_Even {
 public static void main(String[] args) {
   Scanner scanner = new Scanner(System.in);
   // System.out.println("Enter a number: ");
   int number = 89;
   if (number % 2 == 0) {
     System.out.println(number + " is an even number.");
   } else {
     System.out.println(number + " is an odd number.");
   }
   scanner.close();
 }
}
You can also try this code with Online Java Compiler
Run Code


Output:

89 is an odd number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is Java better than C++?

C++ finds primary usage in extensive development for sectors such as banks and governments, while Java is predominantly employed in crafting consumer-centric products like applications, software, and video games.

Q. Is C++ harder than Java?

C++ proves tougher than Java due to its intricate nature and diverse paradigms. Java stands as a beginner-friendly language, suitable for new programmers, while even experts might struggle with C++.

Q. What should I learn first, Java or C++?

Learn Java first if you're new to programming or interested in web development and Android app development. Choose C++ if you want to delve into system-level programming or game development.

Q. Is C++ a dying language?

No, C++ is not a dying language. It's still widely used in areas like game development, system programming, and high-performance computing, and continues to evolve with new standards and updates.

Q. Which is more powerful, Java or C++?

In terms of raw performance and low-level control, C++ is often considered more powerful than Java due to its ability to work closely with hardware and fine-grained memory control.

Conclusion

C++ vs Java is undoubtedly a debatable topic as both are powerful programming languages and are used widely. Both of them have their strengths and weaknesses. C++ is a compiled language that provides greater control over memory management and performance while Java is an interpreted language that is more portable and simple to learn. Java is used for web development, and mobile development whereas C++ is used for game development and system programming. C++ vs Java, if you are a beginner go for Java due to its flexibility and more community support. 

If you would like to explore more related topics, we would recommend that you refer to the following articles:


To learn more about Data Structures and Algorithms, you can enroll in our DSA in C++ Course. Also, check out essential interview questions, and practice our available mock tests. Look at the interview bundle for interview preparations and so much more!

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