Java vs. C++ Comparison: What Are the Differences in These Programming Languages?

Written by Coursera Staff • Updated on

Are you interested in becoming a developer? If you want to create computer software, produce apps, or develop the next popular video game, you will need to write code. Read on to explore if you should learn Java or C++.

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C++ and Java are two popular programming languages, distinguished by their usability for beginners and suitability for different applications. While you can choose between a handful of different programming languages out there, from Python to Kotlin and Java to C++, many programmers' choices come down to Java or C++.

To understand which language is right for you, consider the benefits and disadvantages of these two languages. 

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Is C++ harder than Java?

Most experts will tell you that Java is easier to learn. It’s a newer language than C++ and isn’t as complex in its principles or execution. However, you’ll want to consider more than a language’s learning curve. Selecting a programming language depends on what you want to do with it. 

If you want to create mobile apps from your couch, Java is your answer, but if you design software used inside military planes, C++ is a better choice. You need more information to make an informed decision, so we’ll compare the two languages to help you decide which is best for you. 

What is Java?

Java is one of the most common programming languages used by developers. It’s a high-level, class-based, object-oriented language that takes a program from concept to completion. 

What are the uses for Java?

Developers use different languages for different reasons. To pick between languages, you need to think about your goals. What do you want to create? What kind of job do you want? Your response will steer your decision. 

Developers often use Java to: 

  • Develop Android apps

  • Create enterprise software

  • Create scientific computing applications

  • Manage application servers

  • Design wearable tech

  • Launch e-commerce portals

What are the advantages of Java?

Java has many advantages, thanks to its user-friendly design. Benefits you might find when learning Java include:

  • Small learning curve: While some coding languages are complex and challenging to learn, Java is not. Developers say the language is easy to pick up. Its syntax is straightforward, making it easy to understand, write, and maintain. 

  • WORA: With Java, developers can write once and run anywhere (WORA). In other words, Java can run on any machine regardless of its operating system. This independence is one of the big reasons developers use it. 

  • Object-oriented programming(OOP): Java is an object-oriented language (OOP) that organizes software design around objects instead of functions or logic. Simply put, it makes it easier for developers to write code and reuse parts of it, which aids in efficiency and scalability. 

What are the disadvantages of Java?

Like all software, Java also has disadvantages. Downsides to this language include: 

  • Speed: Java requires a lot of memory to function, making its computing speed fairly slow. Other languages, including C++, are faster. 

  • Mediocre GUI: Java can be lacking in graphical user interface (GUI) design. Plenty of frameworks, like Swing and JavaFX, can improve the GUI, but none can create a complex one. 

  • No backup: Java utilizes storage and doesn’t provide backups. This makes it difficult for a developer to revert to a previous version of code, which is a significant drawback for some developers who see the value of backups.

History Lesson: What is the history of Java?

Back in the 1990s, coding expert James Gosling set out to create a more straightforward programming language. Initially, he planned to improve the existing C++ language but decided to start from scratch. Originally named OAK, Gosling and his team changed the name to Java before releasing it to the public in 1995. 

Soon after its release, major web browsers started using it. The language was adopted quickly and today even remains one of the most used programming languages.

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What is C++?

C++ is an object-oriented programming language that has evolved from a family of C programming languages. Some call C++ “C with Class” because it’s the first to introduce object-oriented programming, which uses classes as a core programming principle, something the older C programming languages lacked. 

What are the uses for C++?

Considering which programming language to learn can be a challenge, but if your ideal job focuses on any of these categories, C++ could be right for you: 

  • Creation of operating systems

  • Video game development

  • IoT devices

  • Databases

  • Web browsers

  • AR/VR applications

What are the advantages of C++?

C++ has many advantages that make it a popular choice for coders worldwide. Some of the upsides of learning C++ include: 

  • High-paying jobs: In general, developers are high-paying jobs. According to Glassdoor, the median base salary for a software developer in the US is $104,277 [1]. However, employers often consider C++ developers specialized, so their salaries may be a bit higher than Java developers. 

  • Library support: C++ has a Standard Template Library (STL) that can help developers write code quickly and efficiently. Since programs aren't created from scratch, these templates can ease some of the burden during the creation process. 

  • Large community of support: Since this coding language has been around for decades, a full community of developers is available who can offer aspiring developers support. This support can offer solutions when developers hit a roadblock. 

What are the disadvantages of C++?

Like Java, you’ll find challenges with C++ as well. Disadvantages you might experience include:

  • Lack of security: Experts say C++ isn’t as secure as other languages like Java. C++ has what experts refer to as “memory unsafety,” which refers to vulnerabilities in the memory codes. Many developers don’t consider security when they’re selecting a programming language, but it has become more prevalent as cyber threats evolve.

  • No garbage collector: A garbage collector finds and removes unnecessary data from a computer’s memory. It’s an automatic process that usually goes on in the background, except if you’re working with C++. This programming language forces developers to identify unneeded properties and remove them independently. 

  • Use of pointers: C++ and its related programs use pointers, which “point to” the variable whose address they store. If that sounds complicated, you’re right. Developers agree that pointers in the C++ language are difficult to comprehend and utilize throughout the code. 

History Lesson: What is the history of C++?

C++ dates back to the late 1970s. PhD student Bjarne Stroustrup wrote his thesis on the need for a coding language that could be used for practical applications. As the name suggests, Stroustrup had experience with Simula 67 language, which is meant for simulations. Still, he knew there was a demand for a programming language that was faster and more functional.  Later, Stroustrup started combining pieces of Simula with C language to include object-oriented programming, which later became C++. 

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Additional specifics to consider when choosing between learning C++ or Java 

  • Programmers with C++ knowledge are more likely to work with a team of developers on large-scale projects.

  • Programmers use C++ more in large-scale development, like for banks or governments, whereas Java creates more consumer products like apps, software, and video games.

  • Java is ideal for creating simple mobile applications, so if your ideal job is to become a freelance app creator, Java is where you should start. 

  • Big-name companies like Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Apple use C++. If your dream job is to work for one of these tech giants, consider learning C++.

  • It’s common for programmers to learn more than one language.

  • Java borrows its syntax from C++, so if you learn C++ first, it’s easy to pick up Java.

How to learn coding languages

You can decide between many options when you’re ready to grow your skill set by learning a coding language. You might consider getting a four-year degree in an area like computer science or application development, or you can take online courses to start building your knowledge now. 

Should I learn C++ or Java? Explore both on Coursera 

Java and C++ are versatile, popular programming languages that can help you build relevant software skills for various professions and applications. Once you've chosen a programming language to start with, consider the following learning resources. Each one is 100 percent online and self-paced.

For a brief yet beginner-friendly introduction to Java programming, consider enrolling in LearnQuest's online course, Introduction to Java. It includes hands-on practice to give students working knowledge of Java syntax, data types, branches, and loops.

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If this is your first time learning a programming language and you want to start with C++, Programming in C++: A Hands-on Introduction may be the right learning path for you. Throughout the four classes included in this Codio program, you will gain exposure to everything from programming fundamentals to object-oriented design. 

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To learn C++ for game development, consider enrolling in the University of Colorado's C++ Programming for Unreal Game Development Specialization. You'll cover the fundamentals of programming in C++ and apply your new skills to learn video game development using C++ and Unreal engine on Mac or Windows.

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Article sources

  1. Glassdoor. "Software Developer Salaries: How Much Does a Software Developer Make?, https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/software-developer-salary-SRCH_KO0,18.htm." Accessed February 4, 2025.

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