A Java compiler is a program developers use to compile Java applications. It converts your high-level Java code (.java) into platform-independent, low-level bytecode (.class). The conversion is an essential step in the Java application life cycle since the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) can only understand bytecode.
However, new developers often get confused between Java compilers and Java IDEs. IDE is a tool that consists of various features to help the development process. For example, Eclipse, IntelliJ IDEA, and NetBeans are some of the most used Java
Due to this increasing popularity, various java plugins, IDEs and compilers were introduced to make developer’s life easier. To give you a better understanding of the best online java compilers available, as well as to facilitate your choice of compiler, we have listed the top 10 online java compilers available in the market.
Java is one of the most used programming languages in the world. It allows developers to quickly build robust, resilient, scalable, and secure apps. According to Statista, Java was used by more than 35% of developers worldwide in 2021.
Benefits of Using Compilers
Compilers convert a high-level language into low-level code, allowing the processor to understand the code. Although this is the primary task of a compiler, it is capable of much more than that.
Here are some of the most significant benefits of using a compiler:
- Compilers generate executable files which are capable of running without the source code, improving the security and privacy of your program.
- Compilers are faster than interpreters.
- No additional applications are needed to execute the executables since compilers generate them based on the OS.
- Generates machine code specifically for available hardware. So, your application can optimally run on any hardware specification.
1. Browxy
Browxy is a free Java compiler, installer, and editor for developing Java applications online. You can get started with Browxy by visiting its web page, and it allows you to modify the theme and text size as you prefer. It is one of the most user-friendly compilers available and provides a split view of the code and the output. You can keep track of your code in Browxy and make the code private or publically available by creating an account. In addition to Java, it supports many languages, including C, C#, C++, PHP, and Python.
Pros
- Supports almost all Java libraries.
- It’s compatible with both PCs and mobile devices.
- In-built debugger.
- Supports test running.
Cons
- No auto-code suggestions feature
2. JDoodle
JDoodle is another popular Java online compiler. Similar to Browxy, JDoodle also has a 3-way split view to code, enter command-line arguments, and view the output. In addition, you can save and share programs using JDoodle after creating an account. Apart from Java, it supports languages like C/C++, PHP, Perl, Python, Ruby, and HTML.
Pros
- Easy to use.
- Supports 76 languages.
- JDoodle advance IDE supports multiple files, file reads, and custom libraries.
- Interactive mode.
Cons
- Basic Java IDE only supports a single file at a time.
- No auto-code suggestions feature.
3. OnlineGDB
OnlineGDB is an online Java compiler with a built-in debugger. It is famous among developers due to the debugger, and it is beneficial when writing complex applications. Like any other debugger, you can observe the intermediate variable values and move through the code step by step using breakpoints.
Pros
- The interactive terminal or a text file can be used to provide input.
- Built-in code formatter and debugger.
- Interactive console and split view.
Cons
- Only Java 8 is supported.
- The compilation is slow compared to others.
