Difference Between Applet and Application in Java: Features, Benefits, and Uses

Java is a powerful, versatile programming language widely used for building a variety of applications, ranging from web-based platforms to desktop and mobile solutions. Its platform independence, reliability, and vast community support make it a preferred choice for developers worldwide.

In the Java ecosystem, understanding the difference between applets and applications is crucial for developers as these two concepts serve different purposes, especially in the context of user interfaces and deployment environments. While applets are designed to run in web browsers, applications are standalone programs that run directly on the user's system.

This blog will explain the difference between applets and applications in Java, focusing on their respective features, advantages, and practical use cases. Providing you with a better understanding on how to choose between the two based on your specific development needs and the type of Java projects you are working on.

Build the future with code! Explore our diverse Software Engineering courses and kickstart your journey to becoming a tech expert.

Start Exploring Now!

What Is Applet in Java?

An applet is a small Java program that is designed to be embedded within a web page and run inside a web browser or an applet viewer. Unlike traditional desktop applications, applets do not need to be installed on the user's machine. They are downloaded and executed directly from the web page, allowing for interactive content like games, animations, or calculators.

Features:

• HTML and Browser Dependency: To run an applet, it must be embedded in an HTML page. The user’s web browser must also support the Java plugin (which is now outdated) for the applet to function properly.
• Security Restrictions: Applets operate in a controlled environment known as the sandbox. This sandbox restricts the applet's ability to access sensitive information on the user's machine, such as files or system resources, to protect against malicious actions.
• Applet Class and Lifecycle Methods: Applets rely on the Applet class in Java. This class contains special lifecycle methods that control the applet’s behavior:
  • init(): Called when the applet is first loaded.
  • start(): Invoked after the init() method when the applet becomes active.
  • stop(): Called when the applet is no longer in use.
  • destroy(): Invoked when the applet is unloaded or the browser window is closed.
• Limited Access to Local Resources: Applets cannot access the local file system or execute system-level commands. This ensures that they cannot make changes to the user’s machine or access personal files.

Must Read: Applet In Java Explained

Benefits:

• Platform Independence: Applets are platform-independent, meaning they can run on any operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) as long as the browser supports Java. This makes them useful for applications that need to be accessed by users on different platforms.
• Lightweight and Fast: Applets are small in size and designed for quick execution. They are ideal for simple tasks like interactive graphics, animations, or small web-based games, providing fast and responsive user experiences.

Uses:
Historically, applets were widely used to enhance web pages with interactive content, such as games, online calculators, animations, and small visualizations.

Level Up for FREE: Explore Top Java Tutorials Now!

Java Tutorial

What Is Application in Java?

A Java application is a standalone program that runs directly on the Java Virtual Machine (JVM), which is the engine responsible for executing Java bytecode. Unlike applets, Java applications are not dependent on web browsers and can be executed independently on any system with the JVM installed. They are typically designed for more complex tasks and can be used for both desktop and server-side applications.

Features:

• No Dependency on a Browser or Web Page: Java applications run directly on the operating system and do not need a web browser or an HTML page to function. This makes them versatile and capable of running in various environments, including desktop computers and servers.
• Full Access to System Resources: Unlike applets, which are restricted in terms of system access, Java applications have full access to the system's resources, including the file system, network, and hardware. This allows them to perform a wide range of tasks, from simple calculations to complex data processing.
• Uses the main() Method as the Entry Point: A Java application typically starts execution from a method called main(). This method serves as the entry point for the program, and the code within it is executed when the application is launched.

Must Read: Top 30+ Java Web Application Technologies You Should Master in 2025

Benefits:

• Suitable for Complex, Large-Scale Software Systems: Java applications are well-suited for developing more advanced, large-scale software solutions. They can handle complex business logic, database interactions, and user interfaces, making them ideal for enterprise-level systems.
• Greater Flexibility and Scalability: Java applications provide greater flexibility and scalability compared to applets. They can be easily extended with new features and scaled to accommodate larger workloads, whether deployed on a single machine or across a distributed network.

Uses:
Java applications are used for a variety of purposes, including:

• Desktop Applications: These include tools like Integrated Development Environments (IDEs), calculators, media players, and office software.
• Server-Side Programs: Java is also widely used for server-side applications, such as web servers, databases, and enterprise-level software solutions.
• Enterprise Software: Many large businesses rely on Java applications for their enterprise software systems, such as Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, and other business-critical applications.

Level up your skills in variables, data types, and power through conditional statements, loops, and functions with this Free Certificate Course on Core Java Basics

Differences Between Applet and Application in Java

Java applets and applications are both Java programs, but they differ significantly in terms of execution, functionality, and use cases. Understanding these differences is essential for choosing the right approach based on your project requirements. Below is a table outlining the key distinctions between Java applets and applications.

Upskill yourself with a Java Frameworks Tutorial. Learn more about structures and libraries to create reliable, scalable, and effective programs.

Similarities Between Applet and Application in Java

Despite their differences in execution and use cases, Java applets and applications share several similarities. Here are the key similarities between them:

• Java Programming Language:
  Applets and applications are both developed using Java, which follows object-oriented principles like inheritance, polymorphism, encapsulation, and abstraction.
• Java APIs, Libraries, and Classes:
  Both types of programs utilize Java’s rich set of Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), libraries, and built-in classes to handle tasks such as networking, data processing, and graphics rendering.
• JVM Dependency:
  Execution of both applets and applications depends on the Java Virtual Machine (JVM), which translates the compiled bytecode and ensures platform independence and efficient memory management.
• Common Coding Techniques:
  Exception handling (using try, catch, and finally) and multithreading for concurrent execution are common coding techniques supported by both applets and applications, allowing them to manage errors and perform tasks simultaneously.

Learn more about OOP Principles with this detailed Principles of OOP Tutorial

Conclusion

While both Java applets and applications are written in Java and share key similarities such as object-oriented principles and reliance on the Java Virtual Machine (JVM), the difference between applet and application in Java becomes evident in their execution, functionality, and use cases.

The decision between choosing an applet or an application primarily depends on the project’s features, benefits, and requirements. Although applets were once favored for simple, interactive web-based content, the flexibility and scalability of Java applications make them the preferred option today for tasks ranging from desktop tools to enterprise software.

With the decline of applets and their discontinuation in many browsers, the difference between applet and application in Java is becoming even more pronounced, as Java applications remain crucial in software development, powering everything from mobile apps to large-scale enterprise solutions.

How Can upGrad Help?

Learning Java is a crucial step in becoming a proficient software developer, opening doors to numerous career opportunities in fields such as back-end development, enterprise applications, and mobile development. upGrad offers industry-focused software development courses to help you learn Java and build a solid foundation for a successful career in programming.

At upGrad, you'll learn Java through various tutorials, interactive learning tools, and expert guidance, making complex concepts accessible and engaging. Our courses, created in collaboration with top universities and industry leaders, provide a comprehensive understanding of Java, from its core principles to advanced topics.

Level Up for FREE: Explore Top Tutorials Now!

Python Tutorial | SQL Tutorial | Excel Tutorial | Data Structure Tutorial | Data Analytics Tutorial | Statistics Tutorial | Machine Learning Tutorial | Deep Learning Tutorial | DBMS Tutorial | Artificial Intelligence Tutorial

Similar Reads:

• Java Vs. JavaScript: Difference Between Java and JavaScript
• Java Vs C#: Differences Between Java and C#
• Java vs Scala: Key Differences. Similarities and Which One to Choose in 2025

Boost your career with our popular Software Engineering courses, offering hands-on training and expert guidance to turn you into a skilled software developer.

Master in-demand Software Development skills like coding, system design, DevOps, and agile methodologies to excel in today’s competitive tech industry.

Stay informed with our widely-read Software Development articles, covering everything from coding techniques to the latest advancements in software engineering.