Why is Java faster when using a JIT vs. compiling to machine code?

Question

I have heard that Java must use a JIT to be fast. This makes perfect sense when comparing to interpretation, but why can\'t someone make an ahead-of-time compiler that gener

Answer 1

In theory, a JIT compiler has an advantage over AOT if it has enough time and computational resources available. For instance, if you have an enterprise app running for days and months on a multiprocessor server with plenty of RAM, the JIT compiler can produce better code than any AOT compiler.

Now, if you have a desktop app, things like fast startup and initial response time (where AOT shines) become more important, plus the computer may not have sufficient resources for the most advanced optimizations.

And if you have an embedded system with scarce resources, JIT has no chance against AOT.

However, the above was all theory. In practice, creating such an advanced JIT compiler is way more complicated than a decent AOT one. How about some practical evidence?