I’m pretty new to Java, and I need to build up programming environments for it (editing, compiling, testing, debugging, and deploying/making jar files).
And, even though I’m not a super expert of emacs, I’m a big fan of this wonderful tool.
Here comes my question.
Is it wise to use emacs for Java development? Is Eclipse better for Java development?
And, what people normally use for Java development environment? I mean, using what tool may result in getting more help than otherwise?
As a die-hard Emacs user and professional Java developer, I can say that I choose Eclipse hands-down for Java, and Emacs for everything else. Every tool has its advantages, and I try lots of tools. But the ecosystem surrounding Eclipse is unparalleled (even by EmacsWiki!) and Eclipse has the best Emacs emulation of any editor I’ve ever found if you install the Emacs+ plugin (by MulgaSoft).
Depending on the type of Java programming you’re doing, Eclipse has no competition, i.e. if you’re working with anything related to Google technologies (GWT, App Engine, Android). The Mylyn component to Eclipse interfaces with just about every task management tool out there, which is fabulous if your work in a corporate environment that uses JIRA, Mingle, VersionOne, Bugzilla, etc.
My experiences with JDEE, while favorable and interesting, put in a distant 3rd place to Eclipse and Netbeans, respectively. I haven’t really worked with IntelliJ, so I can’t comment on that front.