Kotlin Vs Java: Which is Better to Use in 2024

The number of smartphone users is increasing at a rapid pace. Because of this, the creation of apps has significantly increased. When it is about app development, Android app development is trending.

To build high-performing and efficient Android apps, the choice of programming language matters a lot. Traditionally, C was the most popular language used for Android app development. However, developing Android apps with C is a little challenging owing to its lack of flexibility and difficulty in setup. To overcome such issues, programming languages such as Java and Kotlin have evolved. 

While Java has been the official language for developing Android apps for years, Kotlin is relatively new. Java was launched by Sun Microsystems in 1991. On the other hand, Kotlin was developed by JetBrains in 2016. Both Java and Kotlin help in building Android apps that can perform well on all platforms.

But when it comes to Android app development, Java Vs. Kotlin is a popular debate. Are you wondering about Kotlin Vs Java, which is better? In that case, you have come to the right place.

In this blog, you will get to know about Kotlin better than Java, the pros and cons of using each of the languages, and the difference between Kotlin and Java. As a result, you will be able to decide which programming language to use for your next Android app development project. 

Also, read Flutter Vs. Ionic: Which Is Better For Your Project?

Let’s Discuss Java For Android Development

Java is an object-oriented, network-centric, and multi-platform programming language. One of the most popular programming languages is this one. The core aim of Java is to allow the development of apps that can function smoothly on any platform. The advanced functions and cross-platform operability of Java make it a popular choice for Android app development.

Moreover, Java is also a highly convenient language for developers. While it may be a little complex for novice developers, it remains a preferred programming language for Android app development. Notable companies such as Amazon, Netflix, Google, and Pinterest make use of Java for their app development projects. 

Take a look at an example Java code below.

class Book { 

private String title; 

private Author author; 

public String getTitle() { 

return title; 

} 

public void setTitle(String title) 

{ 

this.title = title; 

} 

public Author getAuthor() { 

return author; 

} 

public void setAuthor(Author author) 

{ 

this.author = author; 

} 

}

Pros and Cons of Java

Pros of Java

Here are some of the prominent benefits of using Java. Let’s dive in!

• Straightforward

One of the main benefits of Java is that it is a straightforward programming language. It does not employ any pointers, thereby reducing the execution and development times significantly. The user-friendly syntaxes of Java allow developers to easily build applications without much difficulty. Even if you want to develop sophisticated apps, Java facilitates convenient development with the use of its comprehensive API.  

• Easy to Use

Java is much less complicated compared to the programming languages like C++. In fact, it is considered to be the simplest programming language for Android app development. While there are certain complex concepts in Java, like explicit pointers, storage classes, and operator overloading, they are being removed now. That is why the demand for Java has been increasing in recent times. Reading, writing, and maintaining the Java codes have become quite simple and easy. 

• Supports Multithreading

Java’s multithreading functionality enables it to carry out numerous tasks at once. A thread is known as the smallest unit of a process. Multithreading enables optimum utilization of the CPU. That means the individual threads can run on their own independently without affecting the other threads.

• Secure Language

Java is a secure programming language. By eliminating explicit pointers, Java focuses on improving safety and security. Moreover, Java also has specific security rules for each class. This enables the developers to set restrictions on class access. 

Cons of Java

Despite a lot of benefits, Java has certain cons too. Some of the drawbacks of Java are listed below.

• Slow Speed

Slow speed is one of the major downsides of the Java programming language. It operates slowly and consumes more memory. It is a result of the JVM’s additional level of compilation and abstraction. Memory allocation is done through garbage collection. This can significantly affect the performance of the apps.

• Lacks Backup Facility

Java does not provide any backup facility to the users. It focuses more on data storage instead.

• Unfit for Complex GUI

If you want to build apps with complex GUI, Java may not be the ideal programming language. In Java, there are several GUI builders. However, none of them are ideal for developing complex GUI. 

Examples Of Applications Developed With Java

Several applications have been developed using Java. Some of the prominent ones are:

• Spotify
• Airbnb
• Uber
• Netflix
• Signal 

Let’s Discuss Kotlin For Android Development

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of Java, it is also important to know about Kotlin. Having clarity about both languages will enable you to better understand Kotlin Vs Java and determine the winner.

An open-source, general-purpose programming language called Kotlin is used to create Android applications. It is now the recognized language for creating Android apps. It combines characteristics of functional and object-oriented programming to make the creation of programs swifter.

The best thing about Kotlin is that it can interoperate with Java. That means you can combine Kotlin and Java for better Android app development. Companies such as Netflix, Twitter, and Pinterest make use of Kotlin for the development of several Android apps. 

Want to know how the codes are written in Kotlin? Well, they are simpler compared to Java. Take a look at an example code of Kotlin. 

data class Book(var title: String, 
var author: Authors

Pros and Cons of Kotlin

Pros of Kotlin

The use of Kotlin for Android app development has several advantages. Here are a few of the most important advantages.

• Easy to Learn

Kotlin is a programming language that is very easy to learn. Even if you do not have prior skills in using Java, you can start developing Android apps with Kotlin. In addition to the ease of learning, the codes of Kotlin are also easy to maintain.

• Interoperability

The interoperability feature is a major benefit of the Kotlin programming language. Kotlin is compatible with Java. That means migrating codes from Java to Kotlin will be easy. It also allows the developers to conveniently add new features. Moreover, you can use both languages simultaneously when required. 

• Improves Productivity

Kotlin eliminates the complexities present in Java. Instead, it provides the developers with simple and concise syntaxes. With Kotlin, compiling and writing codes is easy and quick. This, in turn, can significantly enhance the productivity of the developers and allow faster Android app development.

• Reliability

Reliability is another benefit of using Kotlin. Kotlin has undergone a number of testing before its release in the market. So, it is reliable and ensures minimal bugs, thereby making it an ideal option for Android app development. 

Cons of Kotlin

Like Java, Kotlin also has some drawbacks. Some of the drawbacks of using Kotlin for app development are:

• Slow Compilation

Kotlin is known to perform faster than Java. However, it is true for certain cases only. Even though Java may be slower, it can provide developers with cleaner builds compared to Kotlin. 

• Limited Learning Resources

The learning resources available for new developers are relatively less in Kotlin. That means you will require more time to master the language and develop apps using it.

• Less Kotlin Developers

Another drawback of Kotlin is that there is less number of Kotlin developers compared to the demand. No doubt, the use of Kotlin for Android app development is increasing. However, the Kotlin developer count is still less. 

Examples Of Applications Developed Using Kotlin

Several applications have been built using Kotlin. Some of the prominent apps are:

• Trello
• Evernote
• Kickstarter
• Shadowsocks
• Twidere of Twitter 

Also read: Top JavaScript Libraries In 2023

Kotlin Vs Java: Comparison For App Development

To understand which is better for Android app development, knowing the difference between Java vs Kotlin is important. Here are some of the important factors that differentiate Java and Kotlin.

• Popularity

When it comes to Kotlin Vs Java, the first thing to consider is the popularity of the programming languages. In terms of popularity, Java is more popular among developers than Kotlin for Android app development. Some of the main reasons for its increased popularity are its long lifespan and vast resources. However, the backing Google offered to Kotlin is likely to enhance its popularity shortly.

• Performance

Comparing Java vs Kotlin in terms of performance is quite difficult. This is mainly because both the programming languages compile to ByteCode. Being a mature language, Java offers excellent performance. However, Kotlin is known to perform better compared to Java owing to its additional features. The Coroutines tool of Kotlin makes it easier for developers to work with multi-threaded apps. Moreover, the interoperability of Kotlin with Java accounts for better performance of Kotlin. 

• Extensive Function

One of the aspects that makes Kotlin better than Java is the extensive function use. The extensive function enables the programmers to add extra functionality to the class. It can be achieved by prefixing the class name and function.

On the other hand, Java does not support extensive functions. Even though you can extend the functionality of a class in Java, it can be quite time-consuming. You will have to inherit the desired functions from the parent class to the new class. 

• Stability

In terms of the stability of Kotlin Vs Java, one can find significant differences. Both Java and Kotlin are considered to be stable. However, Java is more stable than Kotlin. Java has been there for a long time. That is why it has long-term support for the different versions, such as Java 8 and Java 11. In case anything goes wrong, the developers will be able to fix the issues with a patch. Java makes it simple for developers to get various versions.

But that is not the case with Kotlin. Even though it is a well-established programming language, it is still a young programming language. It does not have any version that can provide long-term support. 

• Scalability

One of the major drawbacks of using programming languages like C and Java for Android app development is that they are not scalable. This often results in the bloating of Android applications, thereby affecting the overall performance. On the other hand, Kotlin provides better scalability compared to Java. It helps significantly reduce the chances of bloating of the Android apps and ensures better performance. So, if you want to develop scalable Android apps, it is better to use Kotlin. 

• Libraries

The libraries and frameworks offered by a programming language affect the choice of the developers significantly. Java provides a vast range of frameworks, tools, and libraries to developers for Android app development. Kotlin also offers several beneficial libraries, such as Coroutines and KTX. However, it is still to catch up with the libraries offered by Java.  

• Community Support

Community support is another important aspect that helps in determining Java vs. Kotlin which is better. While Java has been there for a long time, Kotlin is comparatively a new programming language. Even today, more developers prefer using Java for the development of Android applications. So, Java can provide you with more development resources and connect you with experts. The community support of Java is more than that of Kotlin. 

Difference between Kotlin Vs Java: Which Is Better For Android Development

Both programming languages are ideal for the development of Android apps. However, considering the various aspects of Kotlin Vs Java, it is easy to conclude that Kotlin is better for Android app development.

But the choice of programming language depends on different situations also. For instance, when you want to build large Android apps with several functionalities and features, it is better to use the Java language. It is because of the libraries and frameworks that Java offers. The mature libraries of Java enable developers to build large Android apps with much ease. 

On the other hand, when you want to develop high-performing Android apps, Kotlin is the best option for you. The best thing about Kotlin is that the apps built with this programming language also operate smoothly on old Android phones. It allows the Android app to be used by a greater number of users.

Moreover, Kotlin has an efficient and more streamlined design compared to Java. It ensures the optimum performance of Android apps in different situations. Also, when you want to build a platform-independent Android app, Kotlin can be the best option for you. While Java cannot perform the functions, Kotlin can do it with much ease. 

Java vs. Kotlin: Which Is Easier?

Wondering which is easier in Kotlin Vs Java, Kotlin is the clear winner among the two programming languages for Android development. Kotlin is simpler and easier to understand and use than Java. The good collection of tutorials, tools, and IDEs of the programming language allows easy mobile app development for Android platforms. With the use of Kotlin, developers can build Android applications in much less time. 

Moreover, Kotlin has a better learning curve compared to Java programming language. Kotlin is quite simple and easy to learn. Even if you are a new developer, you can learn the programming language in less time. To resolve an issue or build an application with Java, you will have to write more code. On the other hand, Kotlin involves lesser codes than Java. It increases the convenience for the developers and helps them save more time in Android app development.

Also read: What Is Open Source Software? : A Thorough Analysis

Conclusion

By now, you must have gained a clear idea about Kotlin Vs Java which is better. Both Java and Kotlin are two important programming languages used for Android app development. While Java is a mature programming language, Kotlin is new. However, Kotlin proves to be a better programming language that simplifies the process of Android app development. But depending upon your specific situation, the choice of the programming language will differ.

Now that you know the differences and features of both languages, it is time to choose the best one for your next Android app development project. Leverage the right programming language and ensure the optimum success of your Android applications. 

FAQs