Difference between java.exe and javaw.exe

The deal with subsystems and application behavior

Console Vs Windows subsystems

It's important to note the existence of subsystems in Windows when figuring out the differences between java.exe and javaw.exe. java.exe plays well with the console subsystem, meaning it can directly interact with the command prompt, allowing communication via input and output. javaw.exe, on the other hand, targets the windows subsystem. It prefers to keep things lowkey, running independently without any console pop-up.

Interactivity Vs Silence

Your application character plays a significant role in choosing between the two executables. If you enjoy developing command-line tools or crave direct terminal interactions, java.exe is your console liaison. However, if you're more inclined towards developing Swing apps or any Java GUI, javaw.exe steps up to the plate. It provides a smooth, clean user experience, freeing the GUI from the chains of the console window.

Delaying Vs Prompt execution

When post-application commands need to be executed without delay, javaw.exe wins the race. It allows the control to promptly return to the system, whereas java.exe likes to take its sweet time, holding on to the console until saying the final goodbye to your application.

Practical usage tips and tricks

Running Swing applications

If you don't want the console gatecrashing your Swing application party, edit your startup script:

// "Swing App: Come on in, Console. The more, the merrier!" – java.exe
java -jar SwingApp.jar

// "Swing App: Hey Console, you're not on the guest list!" – javaw.exe
javaw -jar SwingApp.jar
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Enhancing user experience

For a more professional look and feel when delivering Windows-based JavaFX UI applications, javaw.exe throws the unnecessary console window out of the equation, giving a seamless experience to the end-user.

Scripting and automation

In automated environments, like continuous integration setups, using javaw.exe beats the clock. It allows the system to continue with other tasks without waiting for the Java application to complete.

Fine-tuning the right choice

Decide between java.exe and javaw.exe based on the relationship between your application and the intended user interaction:

• User feedback and error reports: For apps that communicate through standard output or error streams, java.exe should be your choice.

• Seamless GUI apps: When managing their own windows and error handling, GUI applications and javaw.exe make the perfect pair.

• Background services: For Java apps intended to run as background services without user interaction, leaving out the console allocation with javaw.exe is a no-brainer.

Pro developer tips

Deployment tricks

Consider your user's environment and expectations when deploying your Java application:

• Desktop apps: On Windows systems, associate your .jar file with javaw.exe for a smooth double-click execution experience.

• Server-side apps: java.exe gets the trophy when running backend utilities thanks to its compatibility with logging and monitoring tools that feed on console output.

Error tracking

When Java apps running with javaw.exe encounter errors, they won't spill the beans in a console window. Implement proper logging mechanisms within the application for efficient error tracking.