Choosing the Right Programming Language for Your Embedded Linux Device

Designing an embedded Linux device comes with unique challenges and exciting opportunities, particularly if your team is accustomed to microcontroller environments where options may be more limited. As you move more deeply into embedded Linux, you’ll find a broad range of languages to choose from, each offering distinct strengths and trade-offs. The right programming language can set your device up for success, both now and in the future.

Let’s look at three popular choices for embedded Linux – C++, Rust, and Dart – and how each can fit into the embedded development landscape. From system-level reliability to user interface flexibility, we’ll dive into what makes each language a good fit for embedded Linux.

C++: The legacy language with modern flexibility

For many developers with experience in C for microcontrollers, C++ feels like the natural next step. With a proven record in embedded systems, C++ remains a popular choice due to its close-to-the-metal performance, making it an ideal candidate for the resource-constrained environments of embedded systems. The language provides robust support for low-level programming, allowing direct control over memory and hardware. Many embedded Linux libraries and frameworks are written in C or C++, making integration straightforward.

While C++ has a reputation for complexity, recent standards, like C++17, C++20, and C++23 have introduced powerful new features aimed at making the language both safer and more accessible. Tools like lambda functions, template metaprogramming, and automatic strong typing help reduce boilerplate code and make code more maintainable. For embedded Linux developers, these updates translate to cleaner, more reliable code, which is particularly valuable when working with limited resources or complex systems.

In an embedded Linux environment, C++ excels at managing system-level tasks, balancing low-level control with high-level abstractions. However, it requires careful handling to avoid common pitfalls like memory leaks or resource conflicts. Developers using C++ should be comfortable with its nuances, as mistakes can have significant impacts in production. Nevertheless, for those willing to invest the time in mastering its features, C++ provides flexibility, control, and an extensive ecosystem that makes it a top choice for embedded Linux applications.

Rust: Modern safety for embedded systems

If you’re seeking a language designed with safety at its core, Rust is an excellent option for embedded Linux. Known for its emphasis on memory safety and concurrency, Rust brings a fresh approach to handling some of the most common challenges in embedded development. Rust’s strict compiler rules prevent issues like null pointers and data races, reducing the likelihood of bugs that could otherwise compromise a device’s stability. This is a significant advantage in embedded systems, where reliability is king, and debugging can be difficult.

Rust’s type system enforces strict ownership rules, ensuring safe memory management without needing a garbage collector. This approach helps developers write code that is safe by design, catching errors early in the development cycle rather than in testing or production. Rust also supports low-level operations and can interact with C APIs, allowing it to integrate well with existing embedded Linux libraries.

While Rust is newer to embedded development, its growing ecosystem and rising popularity among developers demonstrate its appeal. It has yet to match C++’s vast library support, but Rust is becoming more established, and the demand for its safety features makes it a strong contender for embedded Linux projects where stability is mission critical. If safety and concurrency are top priorities for your team, Rust’s modern syntax and performance make it worth exploring as a viable alternative to C++.

Dart: Cross-platform capabilities and UI potential

If your device requires a user-friendly interface across multiple platforms, Dart is a compelling option. Developed by Google, Dart emphasizes ease of use and productivity, and it’s particularly well-suited for application-level development. Dart’s compatibility with Flutter, Google’s popular cross-platform UI toolkit, makes it ideal for projects that need to deliver a consistent user experience across embedded devices, mobile platforms, and even desktops.

While Dart isn’t as low-level as C++ or as focused on safety as Rust, it excels in application-level tasks, especially those involving user interfaces. Its syntax is approachable, which can help reduce programmer error and accelerate development for teams transitioning into embedded Linux. Dart’s role in embedded development is still evolving, but its potential for cross-platform applications makes it a valuable tool for IoT devices or embedded systems that prioritize the user experience.

Dart may not be the best choice for every embedded Linux project, particularly if low-level hardware control is needed. However, for embedded applications requiring complex interfaces or interactivity, Dart offers a level of versatility and simplicity that C++ and Rust cannot. This unique focus makes it an intriguing option if you’re looking to develop applications that go beyond a single device type or need an interface that readily adapts to various screens.

Making the choice

Each of these languages brings something unique to the embedded Linux environment, so your choice should depend on your project’s requirements. C++ offers unparalleled flexibility and integration with existing libraries, making it ideal for system-level tasks and low-level control. Rust, with its focus on safety and concurrency, is an excellent choice when stability is essential, providing protection against bugs without sacrificing performance. Both C++ and Rust are practical choices for traditional embedded Linux applications, where control, performance, and safety are vital. Dart, on the other hand, is suited for projects requiring a user-friendly, cross-platform interface when the user experience is paramount. By choosing the language that aligns with your project’s goals, you can set a strong foundation for a successful embedded Linux device.

Ready for more?

For a deeper dive into designing your first embedded Linux device, including guidance on hardware selection and software architecture, download our whitepaper, Designing Your First Embedded Linux Device. This paper was written to help you navigate the embedded Linux landscape (especially if it’s your first embedded project) and make informed choices for your project.