In the world of coding, people often debate between Node.js and Java, trying to figure out which one is best for their projects. In this article, we’ll look at the differences between them to help you decide which one suits your needs better.
While new technologies usually come and go quickly, Node.js seems to be sticking around for a while.
With increasing demands for Node.js developers, many students are opting for Node.Js courses but most of them get stuck with complex concepts and coding parts but thanks to the coding community available online where students can get help with Node.js homework by hiring experts.
Summary of the article:
- In this article, we will see a detailed comparison of Node.js vs Java and see which is more suitable for your backend development.
- Both Node.js and Java are Server-side scripting languages that help us in developing a high-performance back end.
- While Node.js is a runtime environment provided by JavaScript, Java is an actual programming language.
- Node.js allows the execution of javascript applications outside your web browser and provides a faster and more convenient way of writing efficient code.
- Java, on the other hand, is one of the most popular coding languages that is used for making a variety of applications. It is scalable, effective, and provides cross-platform compatibility.
Node.Js vs Java: An Overview!
Now, let us get started with the topic and hand to see whether Java or Node.js is more suitable for you. We will compare both Java and Node.js over various factors and find out which is better. So, let’s dive in!
What is Node.Js?
Node.js is a software platform built on Google’s V8 JavaScript engine and was developed by Ryan Dahl. It makes use of an event-driven, non-blocking I/O model and a single-threaded event loop which allows high throughput and application scalability.
Applications developed with Node.js are often tied with MongoDB and Express.js which also uses JavaScript. Express.js helps manage the middleware of a Node application whereas MongoDB is a document-based No-SQL database.
What is Java?
Java is a general-purpose object-oriented programming language that is open-source and platform-independent. It is a portable and robust interpreted programming language, designed for use in the distributed environment of the Internet. Java code can run on any Java Virtual Machine, which offers developers a lot of flexibility.
Java is highly used by programmers to develop several quality applications. Along with developing a new application or software, Java is used for checking the security & performance of some software. After Python, Java is the second most popular programming language
The Difference Between Node.Js and Java
Let us now have a detailed comparison between Java and node.js so that we can understand which language will be beneficial for you. We will discuss all of them one by one briefly.
Node.Js Vs. Java: State Of Origin and prerequisites:
Node.js first originated with the help of C, C++ & JavaScript language. All these three languages played a crucial role there. Before starting working on Node.js, an individual needs to download an archive file that is associated with Node.js to work smoothly.
Java only originated from the C++ programming language. That is the reason, Java is considered as the pure object-oriented programming language. In the case of Java, there is a need to download the Java Development Kit & install it properly to work on the Java IDEs.
Node.Js Vs Java: Application Development:
Because of its event-driven nature, Node.js is an amazing choice for developing real-time web applications like chat apps or gaming platforms. It provides an efficient runtime environment for faster software development of lightweight applications.
Java is used to make a web-based application that is highly concurrent and is well suited for the development of enterprise applications. Its object-oriented approach and platform independence make it extremely flexible for cross-platform development.
Node.Js Vs Java: Performance and Scalability:
Node.js is efficient in handling asynchronous tasks and results in higher throughput. Many developers ask, ‘How fast is Node Js?’ It facilitates faster execution as node applications are run on the V8 JavaScript engine, but the speed may vary depending on the complexity of the app.
It is best suited for lightweight projects that are small in size. A complex application will not be suitable for Node.js.
In the case of Java, its multithreading technique improves its performance and facilitates concurrent computing. The Java runtime environment or the JVM optimizes the code execution and provides consistency.
Using Java for large-scale projects will be the best. However, Java is capable of handling small-size projects also.
Node.Js Vs Java: Community Support:
Java has a large and mature community of developers, programmers, and contributors across the globe who are constantly working on the language and providing the best solutions out there. The Java community provides you with extensive documentation, tutorials, open-source projects, and whatnot!
In comparison to Java, node js has a slightly smaller community, however, it is growing rapidly with a large number of developers joining in to make the framework better. The node developer community also offers a wide range of tutorials, forums, and online community platforms like Reddit and Discord to share well-drafted documentation and solutions to help out fellow developers.
Node.Js Vs Java: Chance To Multi-Task:
In the case of Node.js, multi-tasking is not possible. Node.js is not capable of handling multiple threads for a multitasking process.
In the case of Java, multi-tasking is the core feature that one can use. Java is known for its capability to work on multiple items simultaneously.
Node.Js Vs. Java: Framework Ecosystem:
In the case of Node.js, a huge number of frameworks are present that make the software development process efficient and robust. Some of these are Express.js, and Partial.js along with the Sails.js frameworks.
Java is no way behind Node.js. In the case of Java, there are Spring, JSF, Tapestry & many more frameworks that reduce the work of the web development process.
Node.Js Vs. Java: For Backend development:
Node.js can be implemented for both server-side applications and client-side applications. For both cases, the efficiency of Node.js can be acceptable.
Java can mostly be used for the server-side application development process. Java can not be implemented for client-side applications as it can interfere with browsers.
Node.Js Vs. Java: Jobs and Career Opportunities:
Node.js is one of the growing technologies in the job market. When it comes to web development and server-side programming, it is one of the preferred skills by many tech companies. Developers who work with node js also receive attractive packages especially from tech startups and in regions that demand skilled tech talent.
Java is one of the popular programming languages that is widely used by many companies in the tech industry. It is used for building Android applications, web apps, high-performance applications, and more. Java developers are also provided handsome salary packages per their experience and market rate.
Node.Js Vs. Java: Learning Curve:
Node Js provides a slow learning curve for beginners as it supports vast concepts like callback, promises, event loops, modules, and more. However, for a programmer who is familiar with JavaScript, learning node js is comparatively easy.
In the case of Java, with its in-depth concepts syntax, and libraries, we see that the learning curve is steeper than that of Node Js. Although it is a language that has fundamental concepts, the learning process is a little tricky.
What Are The Pros and Cons of Java and Node.Js?
In this section of our blog post, we will discover some of the pros and cons of both Java and Node.Js that will help you get a better idea of what to choose for software development. Let’s explore!
Understand Node.Js: Pros
Below are the advantages or benefits that the Node.Js framework provides to developers. Have a look!
- Code written in Node.js is Multiple-platform compatible due to its universality in nature.
- Installation and Execution are much easier.
- It is inexpensive to test and deploy Node.js through Pay As You Grow services.
- Applications are highly scalable due to asynchronous and event-driven processing.
- Node.js has high performance with speedy native bindings and shorter parsing time.
- Great performance for HTTP and TCP protocols.
- Node.js is considered lightweight and easily modifiable concerning feature enhancements.
- It is possible to ensure the stability and functionality of the system with an increase in congestion
- Hosting for Node.js business apps is comparatively cheap and easier
Understand Node.Js: Cons
Node.js is not a software platform that has all kinds of goodness. There are also some disadvantages present in Node.js.
- Node.js is not applicable for applications that use high CPU performance.
- It gets frequent updates. So, it needs close monitoring.
- The library support system is very weak.
- The APIs also get frequent updates which causes stability problems.
Understand Java: Pros
There are a lot of benefits present in Java that help to make a potential difference in Node.js vs. Java. Here, we will look at some important benefits of the Java program.
- Java has a vast library that developers can use to speed up the development process;
- JVM(Java Virtual Machine) provides excellent stability;
- Offers quality IDEs and a wide range of monitoring and debugging tools that are ready for deployment, making development easier and apps bug-free;
- Tools such as Eclipse, NetBeans, or IntelliJ, which are integrated with servers, debuggers, and decompilers make the development process faster.
- Excellent computation efficiency.
- Great code maintainability.
Understand Java: Cons
Now, Java is not also acceptable in all kinds of fields. There are also certain drawbacks present that need to be rectified shortly. Some of the drawbacks are the following:
- The slow development process;
- Works best if the code is clean and straightforward ;
- Configuring tools can be time-consuming;
- Code migration can become an issue.
Are you still confused between Java and Node? Do you want to know when to use Node.Js vs Java? Let us look at some real-world applications of both that will give you a reference about which of these is suitable for what kind of development.
3 Real-World Applications of Node.Js
Node.js is the key element for all kinds of organizations to grow their business. Here, we will discuss a few fields where the use of Node.js is increasing day by day. We will discuss them one by one briefly.
Social Media Platform:
In every kind of social media platform, there is a high use of Node.js. The Node.js has one ability that receives new data & posts without performing frequent refreshing of the page. Such actions reduce the users’ distraction along with reducing Internet data wastage.
All kinds of social media follow such methods for getting a good amount of traffic there.
Data Analysis Process:
Though, we all know that Python programming language is the only stakeholder that deals with the Data Analysis process. But Node.js is also a strong player in this field. From Data Collection to Data Analysis & later performing Data Visualization can be done with Node.js.
A few methods like Heap & Ychart make any application fast to gather data & information.
Online Marketing & Ecommerce:
All kinds of Online e-commerce platforms & payment platforms are using Node.js as their primary choice. One of the notable Payment Platforms first gives Node.js a move ahead for developing their platform. Some e-commerce use Node.js as it can make a constant connection with the server.
Even if, there is high traffic present in the platform, the connection with the server never gets disconnected.
Few Top Companies That Used Node.Js In Production:
The popularity of this technology can easily be recognized once you see the below list of top-notch companies.
- Netflix
- Trello
- PayPal
- Walmart
- Uber
- Groupon
- Ebaysar
3 Real-World Applications of Java
It is very difficult & challenging to mark all the fields where Java is used. There are tons of domains present that are running with the key element Java. The Runtime Environment of Java pushes some fields like Web Development highly.
Some of the domains’s field names are the following:
All Kinds Of Applications:
All kinds of applications that we all use every day are a result of using Java. From Android applications to Web Application developed by Web Development, should use any kind of help from Java. Many famous companies use Java as their core development element.
Financial & E-commerce Service:
There are a lot of financial services that use Java for developing their software. Different Sever Side Applications are deployed using the help of Spring Boot & Java. The essential Run Time Environment plays a specific role in the development of such software.
Search Engine:
Search engines are the most important elements that help us to find a particular result from the crowd of the Internet. We have to search for some content in browsers using their search engines. And those search engines are developed with the help of Java & JavaScript language.
Few Top Companies That Used Java In Production:
The popularity of this technology can easily be recognized once you see the below list of top-notch companies.
- Uber
- Amazon
- Airbnb
- Spotify
Would you like to learn how to get started with Node.Js? Let’s help you develop your first Node js app.
Create Your First Node.Js Application By Following Simple Steps
Step 1: Install the latest stable version of node.js from Node.js.
Step 2: Open the terminal and initialize a node project in a directory using the following command
npm init
The above step initiates a node project and the directory will have a package.json file.
Step 3: Install express using the following command
npm install express
Express.js is a web application framework for Node.js. It is designed for building web applications and APIs
Step 4: Create a Server with the following code
Example 1:
let express = require(‘express’);
let path = require(‘path’);
let app = express();
app.get(‘/’, (req, res)=>{
res.json({“name”:”pi”});
})
app.listen(‘3000’, ()=>{
console.log(“listening at port 3000”)
})
Save it as app.js
Run the server with the command node app.js. The server is listening to requests at port 3000. Now point your browser to localhost:3000
localhost:3000 will respond with {“name”: “pi”} which is a JSON object, server listening to requests at ‘/’ (root);
Example 2:
Paste the below code in app.js and point your browser to localhost:3000/string
let express = require(‘express’);
let path = require(‘path’);
let app = express();
app.get(‘/string’, (req, resp)=>{
resp.send(“Node.js Example”);
})
app.listen(‘3000’, ()=>{
console.log(“listening at port 3000”)
}
localhost:3000/string will respond with “Node.js Example”, server listening to requests at ‘/string’;
Example 3:
Paste below code in app.js
let express = require(‘express’);
let path = require(‘path’);
let app = express();
app.get(‘/index’, (req, res)=>{
res.senile(path.join(__dirname +'/index.html'));
})
app.listen(‘3000’, ()=>{
console.log(“listening at port 3000”)
}
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html lang=”en”>
<head>
<meta name=”viewport” content=”width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0″>
<meta http-equiv=”X-UA-Compatible” content=”ie=edge”>
<tite>Node.Js</tite>
<style id="wpr-lazyload-bg-container"></style><style id="wpr-lazyload-bg-exclusion"></style>
<noscript>
<style id="wpr-lazyload-bg-nostyle">.rll-youtube-player .play{--wpr-bg-e038a139-c619-462e-b206-7f0325010000: url('https://codingzap.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-rocket/assets/img/youtube.png');}.rll-youtube-player .play{--wpr-bg-dd923d9d-b198-41ea-8087-2f3916c39aa9: url('https://codingzap.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-rocket/assets/img/youtube.png');}</style>
</noscript>
<script type="application/javascript">const rocket_pairs = [{"selector":".rll-youtube-player .play","style":".rll-youtube-player .play{--wpr-bg-e038a139-c619-462e-b206-7f0325010000: url('https:\/\/codingzap.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-rocket\/assets\/img\/youtube.png');}","hash":"e038a139-c619-462e-b206-7f0325010000","url":"https:\/\/codingzap.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-rocket\/assets\/img\/youtube.png"},{"selector":".rll-youtube-player .play","style":".rll-youtube-player .play{--wpr-bg-dd923d9d-b198-41ea-8087-2f3916c39aa9: url('https:\/\/codingzap.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-rocket\/assets\/img\/youtube.png');}","hash":"dd923d9d-b198-41ea-8087-2f3916c39aa9","url":"https:\/\/codingzap.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/wp-rocket\/assets\/img\/youtube.png"}]; const rocket_excluded_pairs = [];</script></head>
<body>
<h2>This is example Node.js</h2>
<script>class RocketElementorAnimation{constructor(){this.deviceMode=document.createElement("span"),this.deviceMode.id="elementor-device-mode-wpr",this.deviceMode.setAttribute("class","elementor-screen-only"),document.body.appendChild(this.deviceMode)}_detectAnimations(){let t=getComputedStyle(this.deviceMode,":after").content.replace(/"/g,"");this.animationSettingKeys=this._listAnimationSettingsKeys(t),document.querySelectorAll(".elementor-invisible[data-settings]").forEach(t=>{const e=t.getBoundingClientRect();if(e.bottom>=0&&e.top<=window.innerHeight)try{this._animateElement(t)}catch(t){}})}_animateElement(t){const e=JSON.parse(t.dataset.settings),i=e._animation_delay||e.animation_delay||0,n=e[this.animationSettingKeys.find(t=>e[t])];if("none"===n)return void t.classList.remove("elementor-invisible");t.classList.remove(n),this.currentAnimation&&t.classList.remove(this.currentAnimation),this.currentAnimation=n;let s=setTimeout(()=>{t.classList.remove("elementor-invisible"),t.classList.add("animated",n),this._removeAnimationSettings(t,e)},i);window.addEventListener("rocket-startLoading",function(){clearTimeout(s)})}_listAnimationSettingsKeys(t="mobile"){const e=[""];switch(t){case"mobile":e.unshift("_mobile");case"tablet":e.unshift("_tablet");case"desktop":e.unshift("_desktop")}const i=[];return["animation","_animation"].forEach(t=>{e.forEach(e=>{i.push(t+e)})}),i}_removeAnimationSettings(t,e){this._listAnimationSettingsKeys().forEach(t=>delete e[t]),t.dataset.settings=JSON.stringify(e)}static run(){const t=new RocketElementorAnimation;requestAnimationFrame(t._detectAnimations.bind(t))}}document.addEventListener("DOMContentLoaded",RocketElementorAnimation.run);</script></body>
</html>
and point your browser to localhost:3000/index
Now Node.js is serving HTML files when the browser points to localhost:3000/index.
we obtain “This is an example Node.js” as the response.
Technological advancement has changed the development process so we need to adopt the new technologies for a better tomorrow.
Conclusion:
As we saw, understanding the difference between Node.js and Java is very important.
Node.js works as a framework where Java acts as a programming language that pushes the extensive use of Node.js. Both the elements might look similar but their way of use is different.
Our target is to get a basic idea about these two concepts. So, that we can use them, particularly in the fields where they are necessary. Just like, Node.js vs Java, if you’re interested to know the difference between comparator and comparable in Java then you can check out our article.
Key Takeaways of the Article:
- Java and Node.Js are two of the most preferred technologies that are used for server-side development.
- While Java is a coding language, Node is a JavaScript runtime environment.
- You can use Node for creating real-time applications like chat apps and other lightweight web software.
- Java finds its use in enterprise computing and the development of high-performance systems of applications.
- Both of these share a lot of differences in terms of performance, scalability, development, learning curve, and more.
- You can decide on “Node. Js vs Java: Which is better?” by understanding the requirements of your project.
Hope you liked our content. We will share more tech posts in the coming future.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Question by Students)
You can find a variety of resources for both on online education platforms like Coursera, Udemy, etc. You can also refer to the official documentation of both to see how different functions work. Forums like Stack overflow also provide great help.
Yes! You can use both of these in the same project with the help of mechanisms like RESTful APIs and messaging queues.
Both Node and Java are great choices for web dev. You can use node.js for the development of lightweight real-time applications and java can be used for developing large-scale enterprise applications.
While Java performs better in tasks that are CPU intensive and require efficient memory management, Node js works well for I/O bound tasks due to its event-driven architecture.
