Difference between ArcObjects SDK for Java and ArcGIS Runtime for Java?

ArcObjects vs. ArcGIS Runtime for Java: Decoding the GIS Jargon

So, you’re diving into the world of GIS development with Esri, huh? You’ve probably stumbled across ArcObjects SDK for Java and ArcGIS Runtime SDK for Java (now ArcGIS Maps SDK for Java, but more on that later). At first glance, they might seem like two sides of the same coin, but trust me, they’re designed for different paths. Think of it this way: ArcObjects is like the master key to the ArcGIS kingdom, while Runtime (Maps) SDK is more like a specialized toolkit for building focused mapping apps.

Let’s break it down, but fair warning: things are about to get a little bittersweet.

ArcObjects SDK for Java: The ArcGIS Powerhouse

ArcObjects SDK for Java is the big kahuna when it comes to extending and tweaking the core ArcGIS Desktop experience. Remember ArcMap, ArcCatalog, those trusty old desktop GIS stalwarts? ArcObjects lets you build custom tools that slot right into them, like adding a turbocharger to your favorite car.

With ArcObjects, you can:

• Supercharge ArcGIS Desktop: Create custom commands and tools that live right inside ArcMap and its buddies. Imagine automating a complex geoprocessing workflow with a single click – that’s the kind of power we’re talking about.
• Roll Your Own Desktop GIS: Build standalone desktop apps powered by the ArcGIS Engine runtime. It’s like having the heart of ArcGIS in your own custom-built machine.
• Extend ArcGIS Server: Craft Server Object Extensions (SOEs) to add your own custom logic to ArcGIS Server. Think of it as teaching your server new tricks.

ArcObjects gives you deep access to pretty much everything GIS-related: geoprocessing, editing features, rendering maps, spatial analysis – the whole shebang. It’s perfect if you need your application to play really nicely with ArcGIS Desktop or if you’re building custom server-side solutions. Under the hood, ArcObjects uses something called COM, which means it can play well with other languages like C# and Visual Basic, not just Java.

ArcGIS Runtime SDK for Java (aka ArcGIS Maps SDK for Java): The App Builder (But With a Catch)

Now, here’s where things get a bit complicated. ArcGIS Runtime SDK for Java, which was recently rebranded as ArcGIS Maps SDK for Java, was all about building interactive mapping applications for desktops. Think slick, focused apps that run on Windows, macOS, or Linux.

It let you do some cool things:

• Online and Offline Maps: Display maps whether you’re connected to the internet or out in the field.
• Geocoding and Routing: Add address lookup and navigation to your apps.
• 2D and 3D Views: Create both flat maps and immersive 3D scenes.
• Data Editing: Let users create and modify spatial data directly in your app.

Sounds great, right? Well, here’s the kicker: Esri is deprecating ArcGIS Maps SDK for Java. Yes, you read that right. The final release is slated for November 2024, and it’s officially retiring in November 2028. Why? Because the world is moving towards mobile apps, and the Java FX framework that this SDK relies on just isn’t as popular as it used to be.

The Big Picture: What’s the Difference?

| Feature | ArcObjects SDK for Java