Speed of loading: Javascript is by far faster loading. On many computers, Java is a slow dinosaur, although if you have a speedy graphics card and a lightning 160 Mhz CPU, it will be nice and fast. Chalk one up for Javascript.
Ease of implementation: Javascript can be imbedded in HTML files. Java requires compiling and snail-speed uploading, as well as server-compatability problems. Score this one for Javascript, too.
Versitility: OK, so Java is more versitile; you can do just about anything with it. This one goes for Java.
Prestiege: Java will look better on your resume any day. Java wins again.
The result is two points to two points. So Javascript's not quite so bad after all, eh?
Don't get me wrong, I'm not bad-mouthing Java. The point here is that Java is good for some things, but it's not all it's cracked up to be. Javascript is great for web site enhancement, and Java is great for other Internet uses besides web sites. I have to reiterate again, Java is made out to be great for web sites, but it's not.
With regards to gaming, both languages have enormous potential to become hot Internet gaming languages. With Java, there's already many games out there, but the main problems with them are slow download speed and low popularity for multiplayer games. With Javascript, the problem is poor game design. I've scoured the Web for good javascript games, with very little result. They're all lacking good graphics and intuitive interfaces. The end result is that they're just not practical. I've been working on my own Javascript games, and you'll be able to find them soon at my Javascript site, The Javascript Coolness Centre.
A final interesting angle on this topic is Javascript interacting with Java. Perhaps their future lies there. Javascript can be used to gather information for Java or even VRML, and it can greatly help web enhancement or other cool applets.
I leave you on the final thought that Java and Javascript both are emerging technologies. They may soon find their niche in the Web, as CGI has in user interface programming.
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