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Ghidra VS Java Decompiler

Compare Ghidra VS Java Decompiler and see what are their differences

Ghidra logo Ghidra

Software Reverse Engineering (SRE) Framework

Java Decompiler logo Java Decompiler

Yet another fast Java decompiler
  • Ghidra Landing page
    Landing page //
    2019-08-25
  • Java Decompiler Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-09-17

Ghidra features and specs

  • Free and Open Source
    Ghidra is free to use and its source code is publicly available, allowing users to modify and enhance the tool to suit their needs.
  • Multi-platform Support
    Ghidra is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it accessible to a wide range of users regardless of their operating system.
  • Powerful Disassembly
    It comes with a powerful disassembly engine that supports multiple architectures, enabling in-depth analysis of binary code.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The tool features a graphical user interface (GUI) that simplifies navigation and enhances user experience, especially for those who may not be comfortable with command-line tools.
  • Collaboration Features
    Ghidra allows multiple users to collaborate on the same project in real-time, facilitating team efforts in reverse engineering tasks.
  • Scripting Support
    It supports scripting in both Python and Java, allowing users to automate repetitive tasks and extend the functionality of the tool.
  • Extensive Documentation
    Ghidra has comprehensive documentation and an active community, providing users with resources and support to get started and troubleshoot issues.

Possible disadvantages of Ghidra

  • Learning Curve
    Due to its extensive features and capabilities, there can be a steep learning curve for new users, requiring time and practice to master.
  • Performance
    Some users have reported performance issues, such as slow loading times and lag, particularly when working with large binaries.
  • Limited Debugging Features
    Ghidra’s debugging features are not as comprehensive as those offered by some other reverse engineering tools, potentially limiting its utility for certain tasks.
  • Java Dependency
    Ghidra requires a Java Runtime Environment (JRE) to run, which may be a drawback for users who prefer or require environments that do not support Java.
  • Complex Installation
    The installation and setup process can be complex and may require additional configuration, which can be daunting for beginners.
  • Less Intuitive for Certain Tasks
    While the GUI is user-friendly for many tasks, some users find it less intuitive for specific, advanced reverse engineering functions compared to other specialized tools.

Java Decompiler features and specs

  • High-Quality Output
    JD provides one of the more accurate and readable reconstructed source codes from compiled Java bytecode.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The interface of JD is designed to be intuitive and easy to navigate, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced users.
  • Cross-Platform Support
    JD is available for multiple platforms, including Windows, Linux, and Mac OS, ensuring that developers can use it on their preferred systems.
  • Integration with IDEs
    JD can be integrated into popular IDEs, facilitating a seamless workflow for developers who need decompilation features.

Possible disadvantages of Java Decompiler

  • Limited Java Version Compatibility
    JD may not fully support newer Java versions or the latest features, which could be a limitation for projects using the latest Java features.
  • No Active Development
    Lack of frequent updates may result in missing support for newer obfuscation techniques or improvements seen in other decompilers.
  • Potential Legal Issues
    Decompiling software can potentially breach intellectual property laws or terms of service agreements, depending on jurisdiction and specific use cases.
  • Limited Community Support
    Due to a smaller user base compared to some other tools, finding community support, plugins, or third-party resources can be more challenging.

Ghidra videos

NSA Ghidra, A game changer ?

More videos:

  • Review - Ghidra Review
  • Tutorial - Ghidra quickstart & tutorial: Solving a simple crackme

Java Decompiler videos

Java decompiler Demo || Software for Converting .class to .java || Compile vs Decompile

More videos:

  • Tutorial - How to decompile JAR by JD GUI Tool | Java Decompiler | Open Source Decompiler UI Tool

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Ghidra and Java Decompiler)
Software Development
100 100%
0% 0
IDE
62 62%
38% 38
Decompiler
49 49%
51% 51
Developer Tools
51 51%
49% 49

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare Ghidra and Java Decompiler

Ghidra Reviews

Reverse engineering tools review
It may not be entirely up to the functionality of HexRays at the moment (remember that Ghidra is a new project), but tools such as decompilers require a lot of work and it is rare to see a new product that someone offers for free.
Source: www.pelock.com
The 5 Best Reverse Engineering Software for 2022
Ghidra's graphical user interface (GUI) is built on Java's Swing framework with a decompiler written in C++ and plugins written in Python. Besides its reverse engineering capabilities, Ghidra features powerful debugging features for both Windows and Linux.6
Source: online.yu.edu

Java Decompiler Reviews

Reverse engineering tools review
JD-GUI or Java Decompiler is a decompiler for Java applications, hence its name. It allows for viewing of compiled units code*.class or whole *.jar bundles.
Source: www.pelock.com

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Ghidra seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 67 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Ghidra mentions (67)

  • Better Reverse Engineering with Frida and Ghidra
    Install Ghidra: You can download the latest version from the official Ghidra website: https://ghidra-sre.org/. Follow the installation instructions provided on the site. - Source: dev.to / 27 days ago
  • DeepSeek proves the future of LLMs is open-source
    Ghidra (https://ghidra-sre.org/) can fine-tune executables way more easily than your models. - Source: Hacker News / 3 months ago
  • Ask HN: How are you using LLMs for traversing decompiler output?
    I've only played a with this, but it was impressive. https://ghidra-sre.org/. - Source: Hacker News / 4 months ago
  • I've figured out what 13 of the 16 enemy flags mean in Ultima V. Help me figure out the last three.
    I've got no experience with reverse-engineering executables, but I got a bunch of code-like stuff showing up when I fed ULTIMA.EXE to Ghidra and told it to analyze it with all the flags set. Source: almost 2 years ago
  • Modding SH2
    The whole game is written in C++ (game logic intertwined with graphics). Ghidra can help you deconstruct the game binaries, but you need to put in a GREAT great effort to even get a starting point. Cheat Engine has been successful for some purposes, including an AI enabling utility for multiplayer (use with great care!). Source: almost 2 years ago
View more

Java Decompiler mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Java Decompiler yet. Tracking of Java Decompiler recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Ghidra and Java Decompiler, you can also consider the following products

IDA - The best-of-breed binary code analysis tool, an indispensable item in the toolbox of world-class software analysts, reverse engineers, malware analyst and cybersecurity professionals.

Decompiler.com - Online Java and Android decompiler. Just drag and drop .JAR or .APK file and browse decompiled content online.

Binary Ninja - A reverse engineering platform and GUI

dnSpy - .NET assembly editor, decompiler, and debugger

X64dbg - X64dbg is a debugging software that can debug x64 and x32 applications.

ILSpy - ICSharpCode. Decompiler. Console..