Java

My development language of choice is currently Java.

Disadvantages of Java

Speed: A well written C++ or C program can be up to twice as fast as an equivalently well written Java application.

Direct Operating System access: It is generally possible to access all of the functions in the operating system directly from a C++ or C application.

Stand-alone: A C++ or C application can often be delivered as a single binary application requiring no supporting files other than those available via the operating system.

Primary Advantages of Java

Libraries: A massive standard suite of libraries is now available to Java developers.

Operating System Independence: A Java application can be run on any system which provides the Java Runtime Environment. This performs well, and allows for considerable freedom of choice in selecting and upgrading hardware post-implementation of a project.

These two primary advantages are enough to outweigh all of the disadvantages. The ease with which a developer can implement complex data manipulation, connect to databases, or generate web pages using the libraries is very striking. Similarly, while "write once run anywhere" is an admirable benefit, the advantages of "learn once write anywhere" are often underestimated. Developers using Java are able to be equally productive on a Unix, Windows XP, or Macintosh system - indeed they needn't have any exposure to the target system, since the development machine can be (and often is) entirely different.

To learn more about developing with Java, visit the Sun Javasoft web pages.