Kotlin vs Java: A Comparison for Application Development Projects

In this tutorial of Kotlin Vs Java, we will see the key differences. But before discussing the differences, let’s first have some brief understanding about Kotlin and Java.

Introduction to Kotlin

Kotlin is an open-source programming language based on Java Virtual Machine (JVM). The language can work on different platforms. This language combines Object Oriented Programming (OOPs) and functional programming in a very streamlined, and self-sufficient manner.

Introduction to Java

Java is a multi-platform, and object-oriented, programming language. It is the most used programming language across the globe. It is a perfect computing platform, and it was released by Sun Microsystem in the year 1995. It was later acquired by Oracle Corporation.

Features of Kotlin

  • Offers fast compilation
  • Works perfectly with Trimmed Coding
  • Kotlin implements JVM, which combines the OOPs features with functional-oriented programming.
  • Kotlin works with multiple extension functions without performing any changes to the code
  • Kotlin code can be written using IDE or using the command-line interface
  • Smart feature helps to trim down the application costs and improves its speed or performance.

Features of Java

  • Write code once and run it on almost any computing device.
  • It is designed to build object-oriented applications.
  • It is a multithreaded language supporting Java Application Development Services with automatic memory management.
  • Being network-centric it facilitates distributed computing.

Major Differences between Kotlin vs Java

Kotlin and Java are both popular programming languages for developing mobile and web applications. Java has been around for decades and is widely used, while Kotlin is a newer language that was designed to improve upon some of Java’s shortcomings. Both languages have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, Kotlin offers concise and expressive code, improved type inference and null safety, while Java offers large community, wide range of libraries and backwards compatibility. Choosing the right language depends on the specific requirements and goals of the project.

  • Kotlin combines features of both object-oriented and functional programming, while Java is limited to object-oriented programming.
  • Kotlin allows users to build an extension function while Java lacks any extension functions.
  • Kotlin doesn’t offer implicit conversions, and Java goes well with implicit conversions.
  • There are no null variables or objects present in Kotlin while Null variable or objects are key part of Java language.
  • Kotlin doesn’t offer static members, while Java implements static members.
  • In, Kotlin variables of a primitive type are objects while in Java Variables of a primitive type aren’t objects
  • Kotlin supports Lambda Expression while Java doesn’t support Lambda expression.
  • Kotlin doesn’t need any variable datatype specifications while Java takes care of variable datatype specifications.
  • Kotlin doesn’t need any variable datatype specifications but Java needs variable datatype specifications.
  • Kotlin programs don’t need semicolons in their program while Java program does require a semicolon.
  • Language scripting capabilities assist you to use Kotlin directly into your build scripts while Java does not offer language scripting features.

Wrapping Up:

So how do you know which is better when it comes to choosing Java or Kotlin? Obviously, some features of Kotlin are better while for others Java is more useful. For those not willing to miss the two leading programming languages for mobile app development, thankfully, there’s another approach.

Irrespective of the differences between the two, they are completely interoperable. Both Java and Kotlin compile to bytecode. This means Java code can be called from Kotlin and vice-versa.

This flexibility has two set of benefits. First, it supports getting started with Kotlin by simply introducing the Kotlin code in a Java project. Second, both languages are used simultaneously in any Android mobile app development project.

For general-purpose programming, Java has a huge edge. You can hire Java developers to build your dream app for your business organization. On the other hand, more developers and organizations are opting Kotlin to rapidly build Android applications.