The most popular programming languages in 2023

JavaScript

It is one of the most popular programming languages with the strong support of a community of experienced developers. It is predominantly used in Web Development (97% of websites are constructed with JavaScript), Cloud services, and Game Development.

Also, JavaScript applies to different applications, platforms, and the most popular browsers. Since JS code is executed on the client’s side, it excludes server load and works faster. Regular updates keep it able to mitigate modern challenges and use it for up-to-date solutions.

Cons:

• Different browsers - different interpretations of the code.
• Error-intolerance. Even one error in the code leads to the shutting down of the website.
• The code is visible to everyone.
• While working on large applications, environment configuration is necessary, as well as combining JavaScript and TypeScript.

Java

Java is one of the most popular languages not because of its age or difficulties but because of its universality. It is used in game development, e-commerce, software development for finances, and mobile development.

Pros:

• It is easy to learn due to clear readability, which is similar to the English language.
• Python has a vast community of ready-to-help knowledgeable developers and a giant library of already-solved issues.
• Flexibility. Python can be extended to or written with the languages of the C family. Also, this language is successfully used in various fields and can run on different platforms without recording or adjusting.

Cons:

• Security and design issues.
• Code is not 100% protected, but experienced developers can deal with complicated designs and know all the necessary manipulations for enhancing security.
• Extremely high memory consumption, which is why it is much slower.
• Imperfect garbage collection can lead to memory loss.
• Not the best choice for mobile development.

PHP

PHP is one of the most in-demand programming languages. It is used for Cloud and back-end web development. For example, Google, Facebook, YouTube, and Wikipedia are developed with PHP. Also, it can run on all operating systems and is compatible with various databases.

Pros:

• Cross-platform.
• Versatility. It is possible to use in the vast scope of products.
• Supports multiple programming paradigms.
• Compatible with other .NET languages
• Robust security.
• Rich library of built-in functions.
• Easy integration with Windows applications
• Scalability. Applications created with the help of C# can be easily scaled up or down.

Also, the list of advantages should include the pros of using Visual Studio as an Integrated Development Environment. It is a foolproof environment for C-family languages with an integrated garbage collector, compiler, and debugger. The convenient User Interface and the possibility of the work on the code in the team mode made Visual Studio a standard-setter for IDE.

Cons:

• Bounded with NET. A Windows-based platform is a must. While using it on the other OS, some features can perform incorrectly or not be available. Also, if .NET is not your primary stack, limited flexibility should be considered.
• Exceedingly limited support.

Pros:

• Convenient database structure. All data is systematized into logically connected tables.
• No coding skills are required. SQL consists of simple operators in the English language, so it is perfect for a quick start.
• Simple integration with Java and other widely used languages
• The most secure database management system.
• Speed and scalability. SQL can manage even cumbersome databases as efficiently as possible.
• Flexibility. All data can be modified, deleted, or added without damage to the structure.
• Portable and supported by different platforms.

Also, the list of advantages should include the pros of using Visual Studio as an Integrated Development Environment. It is a foolproof environment for C-family languages with an integrated garbage collector, compiler, and debugger. The convenient User Interface and the possibility of the work on the code in the team mode made Visual Studio a standard-setter for IDE.

Cons:

• Security issues. Even though SQL is the most secure database, there is too much sensitive data.
• Cost. SQL databases demand expenses that match the size.
• Limited automation. Many processes are still executed manually, which can be very time-consuming.
• Performance issues. SQL database management is highly efficient but can slow down, particularly with extended databases and multi-parameter actions.
• NoSQL databases are more suitable for certain types of data.

Golang

Golang is the language released by Google in 2012 and now is used for Web development, System programming, Cloud, AR/VR, Machine learning, and Big data.

Also, there are two of the most popular languages for mobile development:

Advantages:

• Easy to learn and maintain (not faster than Flutter, though)
• Less bug-prone due to the high readability
• Compatible with Java
• Highly reliable

Disadvantages:

• Java is still necessary because Kotlin cannot meet all needs
• Slower than Java
• Recruitment difficulties because there are not enough experienced programmers in the labor market.

Advantages:

• Easy to learn thanks to a clear structure, closure syntax, and iOS app Swift Playground
• Open-source
• Better performance (faster than Objective-C and Python)
• Enhanced safety, error, and memory management

Disadvantages:

• Still a young language with few native libraries
• Do not have enough native tools and have poor compatibility with third-party tools
• Difficulties in the usage of SwiftUI (User Interface)
• Recruitment difficulties

Summary

Young languages are breaking into the top. They are simplified and efficiency-oriented but still not elaborated enough to replace old languages. Also, there are some recruitment difficulties and essential changes with every update. Meanwhile, older languages are still on top: more difficult and memory-consuming, but can meet all needs and sometimes faster.