Which JVM Languages Are Actually Better Than Java?

The question of whether a language like Kotlin, Scala, or Clojure can surpass the ubiquitous Java opens up a whole realm of discussion about language features, performance, and ease of development. For years, Java has been the de facto language for many enterprise environments, but today, other JVM languages like Kotlin, Scala, and Clojure are gaining significant traction. In this article, we explore these languages and weigh their pros and cons, ultimately highlighting why some might be considered better than Java in certain contexts.

Kotlin

Among the list of JVM languages, Kotlin is the standout contender that might be considered better than Java, especially if we define “better” in terms of modern language features, easier syntax, and improved tooling. Kotlin was designed as a more modern and safer version of Java, incorporating many best practices from contemporary languages and addressing common issues found in Java coding.

Key Features: Null safety Functional programming support Better interoperability Modern language features like smart casts and extensions Enhanced code clarity

Why Choose Kotlin?

For developers looking for a language that seamlessly integrates with Java without the pains of legacy code, Kotlin stands out. Its null safety feature helps prevent runtime exceptions that can cause crashes, making development more robust. Moreover, Kotlin’s smart casts and extension functions make the codebase cleaner and easier to maintain. According to JetBrains, the company behind Kotlin, it is already used on more than 88,000 projects, including major apps like Gmail and Trello.

Scala

Scala, another powerful JVM language, is favored by many due to its unique blend of functional and object-oriented programming. However, while Scala may be superior in some aspects, it is not without its challenges. Its complex syntax can make it harder to learn and master, and this steep learning curve is often cited as a key downside.

Key Features: Both functional and object-oriented Strong type system Concise yet expressive syntax Advanced features like pattern matching and implicits

Why Scala?

Scala excels in large-scale applications and applications that require high levels of concurrency. It is heavily used in the financial industry and academic research. Scala, being a dialect of the JVM, integrates seamlessly with Java, making it a compelling choice for developers already invested in the Java ecosystem. Projects like Apache Spark, which powers data analysis and machine learning frameworks, are written in Scala.

Clojure

Clojure, a dialect of Lisp, is known for its functional programming capabilities and efficiency. However, in the realm of performance and ease of development, Clojure may not always be the preferred choice. Its approach to immutability and functional purity, while powerful, can be a hurdle for certain types of applications, especially those that require high performance and speed.

Key Features: Functional programming Safe concurrency through immutable data structures Efficient and compiled code Rich ecosystem with libraries and tools

Why Clojure?

Clojure is well-suited for large-scale application development and applications that require efficient and scalable data processing. It excels in handling large datasets and real-time data processing, making it a preferred choice for projects in the cloud and big data domains.

Conclusion

In the evolution of JVM languages, Kotlin emerges as a clear contender for developers looking for a straightforward, safer, and more modern alternative to Java. Scala, while offering a more versatile and powerful feature set, comes with a steeper learning curve and may not be the best fit for all development teams. Clojure, on the other hand, shines in functional programming and large-scale applications but can be impractical for applications that require high performance and speed.

For a better Java experience, Kotlin stands out. However, if you want a great and distinct language that diverges from Java, Scala and Clojure are excellent choices. Each language has its strengths and weaknesses, and the choice ultimately depends on the specific needs and context of the project at hand.