Is Java still a good fit for solo developers in 2025? Here’s why I use it, where it slows me down, and what to use instead when it doesn’t fit.
I’ve stuck with Java for a reason. As a solo software developer, I’ve found that its performance, maintainability, and ecosystem still give it an edge—even in 2025. Once you learn to work with its trade-offs, Java becomes a platform for building real, lasting software.
Why Java Still Works for Me
1. Cross-Platform Without Headaches
Java runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux without changing a line of code. That means I can write my code once and have it running on the major operating systems, thanks to the JVM.
2. Desktop Apps Without the Bloat
JavaFX isn’t trendy, but it works. It lets me build real GUI apps that run well on desktop, without needing bulky wrappers like Electron to achieve cross-platform support. Another benefit of coding on the JVM.
3. Still Fast Where It Counts
Java remains one of the fastest mainstream languages for application-level performance—especially compared to scripting languages like Python or JavaScript. Its just-in-time (JIT) compilation helps it stay fast in long-running apps.
4. Control Over Performance
Java gives me more control when my app needs to scale or run efficiently. It supports real multithreading, lets me tune memory usage, and gives me tools to optimize performance when needed—things that are harder or simply not possible in lighter, scripting-first languages.
5. Strict Typing = Long-Term Sanity
Strict structure pays off when you’re maintaining code months—or years—later. I can return to it with minimal “What the hell did I write?” moments. Combine that with robust debugging and refactoring in IntelliJ, and my codebase feels less like a mystery novel and more like a recipe book.
6. Tooling That Makes You Faster
IntelliJ IDEA (even the free Community Edition) gives me a smooth development experience. Smart assistance, powerful debugging, and seamless build integration make Java development feel like driving a high-performance car. This saves me hours—especially when I’m handling the entire stack solo.
7. An Enduring and Mature Ecosystem
Java has been around for decades, and its ecosystem is mature and stable. Whether it’s a Maven dependency, a Stack Overflow answer, or a weird error message that I’ve never seen before at two in the morning, chances are the problem I’m facing has been solved and documented.
8. The JVM is Bigger Than Java
If I ever get tired of Java itself, I’m not locked in. The JVM supports languages like Kotlin, Scala, and Clojure. So even if my tastes change, the platform continues to serve me.
Kotlin in particular is an even easier switch thanks again to IntelliJ. You can even convert Java files to Kotlin—and vice versa—with a single click. Not only that, a project in IntelliJ can easily run both Java and Kotlin files in the same project.
9. Backed by Heavyweights
Java’s not going anywhere. With long-term support releases, continued investment from Oracle, Amazon, other major tech players, and a huge community, I can rely on it for years—maybe even decades to come.
Where Java Slows Me Down
Yes, It’s Verbose
Java still demands a lot of boilerplate, but with tools like ChatGPT or Cursor, writing boilerplate is barely a speed bump. I will admit though that I never minded it as much as others have.
Not Built for Speed Runs
Quick prototyping isn’t one of Java’s strengths. Shipping Java apps can also be tedious and time-consuming compared to what other languages have to offer. The trade-off here is slower development and deployment time for reliability and robustness. For apps that I build to last, it’s a trade-off worth making.
Takeaways
- Build with Java when you want it to last. For quick tests and throwaway projects, use something lighter.
- Java rewards long-term thinking. It’s slower to start but pays off in reliability and maintainability.
- Still a smart solo dev choice. Java’s stability, ecosystem, and tooling mean fewer roadblocks.
Alternatives
For Rapid Prototyping
Try Python or JavaScript (with Node.js) — Fast to write, huge libraries, minimal setup.
For Desktop Applications
Try Electron (JavaScript), C# (Windows), or Swift (MacOS).
For Mobile Apps
Try Flutter, React Native (JavaScript), or Kotlin (Android).