Both PHP and Java are well-known and critically acclaimed programming languages for web app development. PHP and Java are not new players in the battleground of top programming languages. We all know the codes are the backbone of your website.
Compromising them by making a wrong choice can cost you a fortune. This detailed comparison will help you in making an informed decision. Before comparing them in terms of performance, security, and cost, let us check their popularity.
PHP VS Java: Popularity
If you check the statistics, it is quite clear that PHP is outshining all its counterparts. According to the data of W3Tech, 79% of websites are developed using PHP. For a better understanding of the market popularity among other entrepreneurs, check the statistics of SimilarTech below.
This clearly depicts that people are preferring PHP over Java to create their websites. Does this mean that you should avail of PHP web development services without thinking twice? Anyone would do that but ideally, we recommend entrepreneurs to understand the difference between them thoroughly.
This allows you to make an informed decision. No programming tool is best for every kind of business. So, let us check which one between Java and PHP is the right choice for your business:
PHP Vs. Java: Meaning and Background
PHP is a server-side scripting language based on HTML. It was launched in 1995 and has survived in the industry incredibly well since then. This platform is fast and best for creating dynamic web pages.
PHP provides a range of frameworks that are useful for building responsive websites. These frameworks are swift and highly productive. Moreover, its large community aids in smooth web development and maintenance. Overall, PHP is a cost-effective option for creating sites quickly.
Java, on the other hand, is a server-side language as well as a client-side language, and it was launched in 1996. You can create complete web apps with their help. Java offers flexibility for use on desktop applications along with server-side language.
It has a Virtual Machine that improves its speed and makes it perform efficiently on multiple operating systems. Moreover, it offers vast community support that is equipped with talented developers and the best web development practices.
Also Read: Node.js VS PHP
PHP VS Java: Features
Both of our contestants have a plethora of features that programmers should explore before deciding on one. There are numerous other factors that would help you make an informed decision. Let’s review a few.
1. Code Execution
PHP code can be executed in a number of ways. For example, it can be embedded in HTML code using the script tag, or it can be executed using the content management system.
On the other hand, Java source code is compiled into bytecode, which is executed on a Java virtual machine. JVM is executed by the CPU on which Java bytecode runs smoothly.
2. Programming Support
PHP is a server-side scripting language used in web development. Initially, it did not support object-oriented features, but now it supports OOP features as well. Due to this, many websites are using PHP as an object-oriented programming language.
On the other hand, Java is a fully object-oriented language that also supports some functional paradigms, such as lambda expressions and anonymous functions. These paradigms are important for writing modular software. Because of this, many programmers prefer Java to build enterprise applications, as it provides the advantages of modern programming.
Language Tool
Here is the comparison between Java and PHP on the basis of the tools they provide to the developers.
1. Editing Tool
Java has stupendous editors such as Netbeans, IntelliJ, and Eclipse, which increase the productivity of the management of large products. On the other hand, PHP has a plug-in for Eclipse and Netbeans.
2. Debugging Tool
Java can be debugged by using all the editors, but PHP can only debug by using the print statement.
3. Packaging Tool
In PHP, it uses only files; there is no packaging concept here. On the other hand, Java uses packaging tools such as ANT, Maven, Editors, Web start, and so on.
PHP Vs. Java: Security
Although both languages provide a lot of security to their users, PHP lacks some integrated security features compared to other programming languages. Hence, programmers have to employ the security features provided by the various frameworks of PHP to protect their enterprise applications.
Whereas Java comes with advanced security features, it provides full security to its users. It allows developers to make the client and server exchange data over secure transfer protocols. Many developers prefer Java over PHP when developing website applications or enterprise applications.
PHP VS Java: Cost of Development
PHP is an open-source programming language that allows the PHP web development company to develop any code without paying any fee. Programmers can use the PHP framework to develop enterprise applications, and they can also customize the server-side scripting language according to the needs of your enterprise development.
On the other hand, Java is not an open-source programming language. It uses open JDK which is used for the implementation of Java programming language. So, it costs more than the PHP project.
Also Read: Shopify Plus Vs Shopify Advanced
PHP VS Java: Performance
PHP parses the file and outputs the stream for each call. There is no compilation process in PHP. However, in the CGI model, the compilation does not make any sense. Although Java was formerly described as slow, JVM is highly optimized with speed: just in time-compilation. Java compiled JSP files and JITs hotspots axiomatically.
The Judgment of This Battle
While concluding all the aspects, it is clear that choosing between these is hare-brained, since both of them have their own flaws and strengths. Both Java and PHP have their own places in the IT industry. PHP web development has the upper hand because of the excellent performance of websites built using PHP.
Moreover, it justifies the saying, “Old is gold.” Which programming language to choose for your web app development should be totally based on your business’s needs. Connect with CSSChopper’s web developers to identify your needs and suitable programming language for your web app idea. Let us make an informed decision together!
