Top 6 programming languages for IoT development

So, you’re navigating the vast landscape of IoT development projects, and you’ve run into the age-old dilemma: which IoT programming language is the perfect match for your adventure?

It’s like choosing between a sea of complex hardware platforms. Fear not, for we’re here to shed light on this digital jungle and provide you with some compelling options, sprinkled with insights and a dash of humor.

1. JavaScript: The web’s witty enchanter

According to the Stack Overflow Developer Survey, JavaScript reigned as the most popular programming language in 2023.
JavaScript is the glue that holds the web together, like the Robin Hood of languages that generously shares its libraries.
It ensures device interoperability, especially in servers, hubs, and data collection.
Among a diverse range of IoT programming languages, JavaScript’s versatility shines. Whether you’re on a gateway or soaring through the cloud, it’s omnipresent, backed by a thriving community. Its event-driven modality makes it a superhero for sensor-related tasks.

Most popular programming languages surveyed by Stack Overflow

2. Python: The Snaky charm of simplicity

Based on the statistics of the PYPL index, Python is the most popular language this year.
Python offers simplicity and readability in a neat package. It’s like the programming equivalent of “small but mighty.” Thanks to its extensive libraries, it can do more with less code.
Python’s got your back for all your data-wrangling needs in IoT development. Whether you’re organizing data in databases or dealing with tables, Python is your trusty companion.
It’s the go-to language for data-intensive IoT applications, and its massive community is like having a helpful neighbor next door.

Most popular programming languages surveyed by PYPL

3. Java: The “Write Once, Run Anywhere” magician

From time to time, Java consistently ranks as the 3rd most in-demand language for hiring managers worldwide.
Java is famous for its “write once, run anywhere” charm. You can code and debug on your computer and teleport it to any chip via Java Virtual Machine (JVM).
Java isn’t an exclusive club; it borrows ideas from languages like Mesa, Eiffel, C, and C++, which makes it object-oriented and hardware-agnostic, making it perfect for IoT development.
Java doesn’t just bring code; it comes with hardware support libraries that open up a world of possibilities.

4. C Language: The timeless hero

C is like the wise elder brother. It has been around for ages, and it’s still rocking the charts of commonly used languages.
C serves as the backbone of IoT development, residing closest to the hardware. If other IoT programming languages were houses, C would be the bedrock.
With its minimal processing demands, C can work wonders for IoT. It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of object-oriented languages but compiles like a champ. It’s perfect for IoT projects, where efficiency is king.
C’s portability is like that friend who can adapt to any situation. Code written in C on one system can easily strut it on another.

5. PHP: The micro-services maestro

PHP is one of the oldest and most widely used programming languages. Till now, it ranks 6th in the PYPL PopularitY of Programming Language Index.
PHP turns the humblest internet things into full-fledged web servers.
With its magic touch, apps can harness GPS data from IoT devices, turning mundane data into gold.
This programming language stands out as a versatile, high-speed, and low-maintenance IoT programming language, making it a triumphant choice for backend development.

Hire the best PHP developers with Sunbytes

6. Swift: The apple-flavored delight

Swift is your go-to for connecting with iPhones and iPads through your central home hub. Apple is making IoT moves, and Swift is the language of choice.
It’s gaining popularity and overtaking its predecessor, Objective-C, as it powers Apple’s IoT ambitions.
With Apple’s HomeKit platform, IoT integration becomes a breeze, as libraries do the heavy lifting, allowing developers to focus on the important stuff.
Plus, since Swift went open-source in 2017, it’s no longer limited to the Apple ecosystem.

So, there you have it – a colorful bouquet of IoT programming languages. Each has advantages, statistics to back its popularity, and a unique personality. In this jungle, there’s no single king; it’s more like a band of legends, each with its own superpower.

Match the language to the proper functionality, as the choice of language plays a significant role in the success of your IoT project.

Final thought

Making the right IoT programming language choice ensures you can assemble a team without breaking the bank and have a talent pool to dip into for future needs. So let’s Sunbytes accompany you throughout your IoT adventures.

From helping find your perfect-fit dedicated developers to building up your own dedicated team, you will be hands-off with recruitment hurdles and focus more on your strategy and planning.