Java has been dominating the technology for quite some time now, but there is one language that is not shying away to jump in the cutting edge competition. Yes, we are talking about Kotlin, which is a boon for Android development. With both Java & Kotlin fighting neck to neck for the mass attention, it is necessary for you to understand both of them separately, and then compare.
So without any further ado, we need to get started.
Also Read – Kotlin Vs Groovy: A Clash Of Titans?
What Is Kotlin?
Before getting on to its basic definition, let us acknowledge the reason why it was actually created. Kotlin was developed out of curiosity to boost overall productivity. It is a statically typed programming language, which is used for Java Virtual Machine, and also for JavaScript.
Kotlin is a programming language that was first introduced in 2011 and has since become a popular alternative to Java for Android app development. Kotlin is fully compatible with Java and can be used alongside Java code, which makes it easy for Java developers to learn and use.
This language is officially supported by Google, solely for mobile development on Android. Kotlin is now included as an alternative for a standard Java compiler. Check out the few pointers about this language;
- It has presented functional features, in order to boost Java interoperability.
- It is also known as a general-purpose language.
- Elevates the complete coding experience which is both effective and practical.
- The benefit of using Kotlin is that it is possible to compile the language to a JavaScript and enhance working with Java.
- It is supported by leading IDEs.
One of the most strongly supported JVM languages in the entire Android ecosystem, Kotlin holds so much value in the development world. When compared to Java, one can write less code. Fewer lines of the code mean Kotlin’s file size is less when compared to the other one.
What Is Java?
For anyone who is interested in coding, it is the oldest and easiest language. For more than two decades, this language was running on top, but still, it is one of the most popular ones. It is an object-oriented programming language and was created by Sun Microsystems(now owned by Oracle).
The Pandora of Java has a lot more in store than just to develop Android applications. This means if someone knows this language and has a good command over it, then it is easy to become a part of a bigger community and market. This clearly points towards the opening of doorways to new opportunities. It’s time we check out some pointers about the same;
- This language is concurrent. This means that one can seamlessly execute multiple statements.
- It is class-based, as as we have also discussed, object-oriented.
- It is independent, and follows the logic ‘write once, run anywhere’.
- A computing platform, where one can develop applications.
Kotlin vs Java- The Comparison
1. Checking the community support
Since Kotlin is comparatively new, it has a small and emerging community, with limited learning resources. Java is an old, and a vast programming language, so its larger community is totally justified.
2. Total compilation time
With slower compilation time Kotlin lags in this vertical when compared to the other one.
3. Measuring the development speed
No doubt that Kotlin’s development is fast. But in this case, Java is much faster.
4. Assessing Null safety
Kotlin’s Null safety is inbuilt, because of which developers are saved from writing extra code. But Java does not support Null safety.
5. Lambda expressions
Kotlin supports the Lambda function(an anonymous function that can be treated as values). Whereas Java does not.
These are the few specifications that you must know before mobile app development. If you want to learn more about the same, then reach out to us for more information. But until then, stay hooked for more.
