Java or C++ with PHP?

[mostafatalebi]

Hello

 

My question is not a Vs. type of question. I want to know which language is better to learn when you are a PHP programmer, Java or C++?

 

I mean from an economic point of view. I already know what Java and C++ can do and how they are different. But my question is that, when you are a PHP programmer, and want to learn a programming language, which is better, Java or C++, from a job point of view?

[requinix]

Why do you want to learn it? Java is more common for web development and helps for Android, C/C++ teaches you a lot about how software works at a lower level.

[mostafatalebi]

I want a more robust language for application development. I know C++ just as a beginner. but am not sure if the employment prospect is promising or not. Since it is real a time-demanding language. So I have to be sensitive about it.

[requinix]

I want a more robust language for application development.

It's not that simple. What type of applications? Employment in what field? Java is a little more flexible than C++ in that regard (at least not without using assorted frameworks) but people don't use it for "normal" programs anymore.

[charlesbabage]

I also agree with that user you should consider it but am not sure if the employment prospect is promising or not. Since it is real a time-demanding language. So I have to be sensitive about it.

[IThinkMyBrainHurts]

I believe PHP is a progression of C++, that said C++ and Java are very similar in coding style. Also C++ uses a whole lot of the same function names as PHP, which stems from the original C libraries.

 

Java is very portable but, mmm very slow, C++ beats it hands down, hence why the majority of games are written in C++.

 

As Requinix say's,it depends on what you want to do. If you're writing system programs, drivers, serious number cruncher's, simulators etc then it's C++ all the way. On the other hand if you want to write something once and quickly then Java is your bag, it's more akin to a bag of tricks. This bag of tricks is very adaptable and is being used for some very adaptable applications.

 

From having a look at the job market recently, there seems to be a whole lot more C# job adverts than Java, in my area!?

[Ofarchades]

Learn both?

 

If you're already working in the web domain, there's a chance you'll come up against Java in some form or another e.g. Android, applets (they still exist), Java-based web services such as Solr, Tomcat, etc.

 

C/++ will give you a feel for lower-level system mechanics and contribute to your overall technical understanding (which is in itself useful, albeit rarely). The only likely practical application of C for a PHP programmer would be extensions for or modifications to the PHP engine itself.

 

If you're thinking of branching out to another career entirely, C and especially C++ will require a lot more commitment to reach a stage of proficiency where you could hold your own in a professional environment. Java slightly less so.