VB vs. C: Know the Difference

By Shumaila Saeed || Published on February 11, 2024

VB (Visual Basic) is a high-level, event-driven programming language known for its ease of use, while C is a lower-level, procedural language renowned for its performance and control over system resources.

VB vs. C

Key Differences

VB is known for its English-like syntax and ease of use, particularly in GUI development, making it a go-to for rapid application development. C, on the other hand, has a more concise and less intuitive syntax, offering greater control over hardware and efficient execution, which is essential in system programming.

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VB often operates within an integrated development environment (IDE), like Microsoft Visual Studio, which provides numerous tools for GUI design, debugging, and database connectivity. C, while it can also use IDEs, is frequently used with simpler editors and command-line tools, reflecting its use in lower-level programming tasks.

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C is renowned for its speed and efficiency, a result of being closer to machine code. It's widely used in developing operating systems, drivers, and other high-performance applications. VB, with its higher level of abstraction, prioritizes ease of development over raw performance, making it less optimal for performance-critical applications.

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C is highly portable, with its compilers available for virtually every type of computer and operating system. VB, in contrast, is primarily Windows-focused, limiting its portability across different platforms.

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VB is commonly used for developing Windows-based applications and services, with a strong focus on rapid development of client-server applications and front-end systems. C, being more versatile but requiring deeper technical knowledge, is utilized in developing embedded systems, system software, and applications where direct hardware manipulation is needed.

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Comparison Chart

Syntax

English-like, more readable

Concise, less intuitive

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Primary Use

GUI-based applications, Windows services

System programming, embedded systems

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Performance

Generally slower due to abstraction

Faster and more efficient

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Environment

IDE-focused, with integrated tools

Often used with simpler editors or command-line interfaces

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Platform

Mainly Windows

Highly portable across platforms

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VB and C Definitions

VB

VB responds to user or system events.

In VB, clicking a button triggers an event handler.

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C

C is used for developing operating systems.

Linux kernel is largely written in C.

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VB

VB excels in creating graphical interfaces.

I designed the user interface of our project in VB.

Jan 13, 2024

C

C is known for its execution speed.

Our performance-critical software is written in C.

Jan 13, 2024

VB

VB is primarily used for Windows applications.

Our Windows application was developed in VB.

Jan 13, 2024

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C

C's syntax influences many languages.

C's syntax laid the foundation for C++ and Java.

Jan 13, 2024

VB

VB is often used within an IDE.

Visual Studio enhances my productivity in VB.

Jan 13, 2024

C

C code can run on many platforms.

The same C program runs on Windows and Linux.

Jan 13, 2024

VB

VB enables quick creation of applications.

Using VB, I developed a prototype app overnight.

Jan 13, 2024

C

C allows close interaction with hardware.

I used C to write the device driver.

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C

A widely used programming language.

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Repeatedly Asked Queries

Does VB support object-oriented programming?

Yes, VB.NET supports object-oriented programming.

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Is C suitable for system programming?

Yes, C is highly suitable for system programming.

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Does VB have a steep learning curve?

No, VB is known for its easy learning curve.

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Can VB be used for web development?

VB can be used for web development, especially in ASP.NET applications.

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Is VB compatible with Linux?

VB is primarily designed for Windows and has limited compatibility with Linux.

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Is memory management automatic in C?

No, in C, memory management is manual.

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What is VB mainly used for?

VB is used for developing Windows-based applications and services.

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Can VB access databases?

Yes, VB can easily connect to and manipulate databases.

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Is C good for beginners?

C can be challenging for beginners due to its lower-level concepts.

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What makes C efficient?

C’s efficiency comes from its close-to-hardware operation.

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How portable is C code?

C code is highly portable across different platforms.

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Is VB.NET the same as VB?

VB.NET is an evolution of VB, with more features and .NET framework support.

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Does VB support GUI development?

Yes, VB is particularly strong in GUI development.

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Can I use VB for mobile app development?

VB is not typically used for mobile app development.

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What are pointers in C?

Pointers in C are variables that store memory addresses.

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Can C be used for graphical applications?

C can be used for graphical applications, but it's less common.

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What are the data types in C?

C includes data types like int, char, float, and pointers.

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What is the role of headers in C?

Headers in C contain declarations for functions and macros.

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Can C interact directly with hardware?

Yes, C can interact directly with system hardware.

Feb 11, 2024

How does VB handle error management?

VB uses structured exception handling for errors.

Feb 11, 2024

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VB vs. C

VB vs. C

About Author

Written by

Shumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.

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