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Kotlin vs. Scala: Which is right for you?

Blog post from Tabnine

Post Details
Company
Date Published
Author
Tabnine Team
Word Count
1,214
Language
English
Hacker News Points
-
Summary

Kotlin and Scala are two prominent JVM languages that aim to improve upon Java by offering unique strengths and addressing different development needs. Scala, introduced in 2004, is well-suited for big data and complex mathematical applications due to its robust pattern matching, macros, and higher-kinded types, boasting a strong following and a diverse community. However, it suffers from slow compilation speeds and less seamless Java interoperability. Kotlin, on the other hand, launched by JetBrains in 2012, excels in Android development with its concise syntax and superior Java compatibility, supported by corporate backing from Google and JetBrains. While Kotlin's community is still growing, it offers faster compilation and reduced boilerplate code, making it ideal for projects within the Android ecosystem. Ultimately, the choice between these languages depends on the specific needs and goals of a given project, with Scala favoring data science and mixed paradigms, and Kotlin being the go-to for Android applications.