What is the difference between Rhino and Spidermonkey JavaScript engines?

Question

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 1

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).

Answer 2

Rhino is written in Java. SpiderMonkey is written in C/C++. I wouldn't go near either for the purposes of "learning JavaScript", for which a browser is probably more suitable.