Java vs.PHP. Which language to choose?

The choice of the right technology is an extremely important step for development of successful website that will suit your business goals. So, let’s talk about the most popular programming languages such as Java and PHP and try to specify their strengths and weaknesses.

What is Java?

The Java programming language is a high-level object-oriented language developed by Sun Microsystems in 1991. It was design as a general purpose programming language the purpose of which was creation of standalone applications.
Nowadays, Java is the most reliable programming technology which allows creation of modular programs and a code that can be reused.

Let’s take a closer look at some Java features:

Versatility. Java applications can work equally on any device that supports Java Virtual Machine. That is, not only on smart phones and tablets, but also, for example, in media players, household appliances, etc. As for the PHP it is also can be used for cross platforms development.
Front-End. Unfortunately, Java is not very suitable for front-end development, especially in case if the project constantly needs to make a lot of small changes. Unlike PHP, where code can be edited directly without additional steps, Java projects must first be compiled.
Good for big projects. Unlike PHP, Java is much more suitable for heavy server loads, even though it has higher requirements to the system. Therefore, if the project under development has significant potential for growth, it is better to choose Oracle’s Java.
Java is heavy. Almost any project in Java will have a longer code than in PHP. And this is the main reason of high Java requirements to the system. But, it is important to say, Java is suitable for projects with high server load.
Java has a good structure. In Java, as on PHP, you can complete task in variety of ways, but in the result almost anyone can understand the meaning of a code. It is very important for those web applications which have many new features. In this case Java resembles Agile methodology which are both suitable for further project development.

What is PHP?

PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor) is a programming language specially designed for writing web applications (scripts) running on a Web server and characterized as flexible and free programming technology. If PHP language combine with the most popular database MySQL, it will be the best option for creating Internet sites of different complexity.

Here are some features of PHP:

Easy to change. Unlike Java, you have an opportunity to change the PHP code whenever you need. So, if your project demands a lot of changes, PHP is what you need.
Low requirements to the system. Projects in PHP really work better when they are designed for a small peak server load. When the load on the server increases, Java will be much more suitable.
Simplicity. PHP scripts are run on the server side. PHP does not depend on the speed of the user's computer or its browser, it completely works on the server. The user may not even know whether he receives a normal HTML file or the result of running the script.
Great amount of ready-to-use codes. PHP has an extensive community of programmers, so you can easily find various ready-made code blanks for different needs. It is really helpful in case if you need to create working prototype in a relatively short period of time.
Low security level. PHP has a lot of vulnerabilities. One of them – SQL injection. An attacker can delete or download your whole database with the help of one simple script. Of course, there is no programming language that is 100% secure, but if you don’t want to take any risks, you definitely shouldn’t choose PHP.
You are still thinking what to use? PHP is better suited for small projects which need to be completed very quickly. If the project is complex, with great potential for development – you should choose Java. Additionally the service of PHP programming is cheaper than Java one. The choice is yours!