What is the difference between Rhino and Spidermonkey JavaScript engines?

Dzek Trek picture Dzek Trek · Jan 17, 2012 · Viewed 7.6k times · Source

For the first time, I began learning Javascript, however on the start I stuck up with two possible options: Rhino and Spidermonkey. Could you please, tell me what is one, and what is another, so I can easily choose for myself the best option that suits my needs. If it makes easier for you, you can list advantages and disadvantages of both Javascript versions.

Answer

maerics picture maerics · Jan 17, 2012

It depends on what you're trying to do with JavaScript. If your intent is just to learn the language then I recommend using a web browser such as Chrome or Firefox and using their built-in (or addon) JavaScript consoles.

As to your specific question about standalone JavaScript interpreters, here are some notes:

  1. Rhino - implemented in Java, intended primarily for use as a scripting engine extension for the Java platform. Includes an interactive command-line console, which will be helpful for learning.
  2. SpiderMonkey - implemented in C/C++, intended for use as the JavaScript engine in Firefox.

See also:

  1. V8 - implemented in C++, designed primarily as the Chrome browser's JavaScript implementation; well suited for embedding.
  2. node.js - a standalone, evented, asynchronous JavaScript environment, based on V8.
  3. Narwhal - a CommonJS platform.
  4. Windows Script Host - includes a JScript interpreter (ECMAScript based, very similar to modern JavaScript).