Java or Flash?

They have: 5,633 posts

Joined: Jan 1970

What should i learn next Java or Flash? I know alittle flash so if i need to make something real quick i can. But i dont know any Java. Im intresed in how nice java looks but everyone says that flash is the best.....

Comments?

Suzanne's picture

She has: 5,507 posts

Joined: Feb 2000

Java is better for programming. Flash is better for graphics. Personally I don't think they are comparable.

Chroder's picture

He has: 91 posts

Joined: Mar 2004

Java or Javascript? Some people get mixed up between those Wink For web development I'd say Flash. There's lots of programming involved in Flash if you take on the projects. If you did mean Javascript, then I'd say that. Javascript is a very handy tool, though shouldn't be relied upon.

They have: 5,633 posts

Joined: Jan 1970

I already know JavaScript. I was taking about Java. I just want to know. Over all graphics look. Like if i was going to make a menu with both witch would look batter.

Suzanne's picture

She has: 5,507 posts

Joined: Feb 2000

There is no comparing. Java just doesn't have the image support that Flash does. Seriously. It's like asking if you should drive your car or your skateboard on the highway. Cars on the highway, skateboards at the park. Skateboards on the highway and cars in the park is just not sensible.

He has: 1,758 posts

Joined: Jul 2002

But skateboarding on the highway is a lot more fun... Wink (well... if your the daredevil type that is!)

They have: 5,633 posts

Joined: Jan 1970

Im all for skateboading on the highway! Im just going to start on Java.

Megan's picture

She has: 11,421 posts

Joined: Jun 1999

Right, depends on what you want to do. Java is no good for graphics, but has a lot of programming applications. Flash is good for graphics and animation is becoming more and more programming-oriented. There's a lot you can do in there with code. I guess it comes down to choosing a career path - do you want to go in the direction of programming or in the direction of multimedia?

He has: 52 posts

Joined: Feb 2003

Your definately right Megan.. Actually the two are more comparable than you might think.. both use rigid backend code engines, and the ability to display an array of visual effects and front end information delivery. But in the new MX 2004 it contains a ton of support including java, css, network connectors, cross server support, etc...

When used as a dynamic delivery tool, Flash has really stepped up to the plate. I'm building a shopping cart / inventory system with .NET / SQL 2000 and Flash. No important information is stored in the flash files, and all forms are on hard lockdown. Together with IIS security its virtually unbreakable, and on top of it all its got seemless loading between pages, super-clean everything, and the support of the flash player.

Don't get me wrong though - I've seen some sick stuff done with Java and you've got to be a rocker scientist to break some of that stuff. Java might have alot more high-level programming jobs than you'll find with flash, but the industry is huge so its up to you on which to tackle for a career.

Aaron Elliott
forwardtrends.com

They have: 5,633 posts

Joined: Jan 1970

Another thing i was recently reminded of is that cell phones support java. I ive already bought the nessary boods and programs to start with java. Wish me luck!

He has: 52 posts

Joined: Feb 2003

Some Cel phones and PDA's support the flash player as well. Here's another cool fact - the Mars Rover's run 100% on Java! Wink

He has: 1,380 posts

Joined: Feb 2002

Note to bja888: might want to buy/rent a book on typing and spelling...

Just kidding...look around to some posts, everyone mis-spells and mis-types things...eye due et awl thae tyme!

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