Three simple steps
How to use this tool?
This free online converter translates COBOL source code into Raku in three simple steps.
- Step 1
Add your COBOL code
Type, paste, or upload the COBOL code you want to translate.
- Step 2
Convert the code
Click Convert to translate the source code into Raku.
- Step 3
Review the result
Review, copy, or download the resulting Raku code from the output editor.
Language comparison
Key differences between COBOL and Raku
| Characteristic | COBOL | Raku |
|---|---|---|
| Syntax | English-like, verbose, designed for readability and business logic. | Flexible, expressive, supports multiple paradigms, concise and modern. |
| Paradigm | Procedural, with some support for object-oriented programming in later versions. | Multi-paradigm: procedural, object-oriented, functional, concurrent, and more. |
| Typing | Static typing with strong emphasis on data structure definitions. | Gradual typing; supports both dynamic and static typing. |
| Performance | Optimized for batch and transaction processing; high performance for business applications. | Generally slower than COBOL due to its flexibility and features; performance improving but not a primary focus. |
| Libraries and frameworks | Limited, mostly focused on business, finance, and legacy systems. | Growing ecosystem, CPAN6 for modules, but smaller than more established languages. |
| Community and support | Mature, but shrinking; strong in legacy enterprise environments. | Small but active and enthusiastic community; modern online resources. |
| Learning curve | Gentle for business logic, but can be tedious due to verbosity and legacy concepts. | Steep due to flexibility and breadth of features, but modern documentation helps. |
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert COBOL to Raku?
Paste your COBOL code into the input box, confirm the languages are set to COBOL and Raku, and click Convert. CodeConvert AI analyzes your COBOL code and generates equivalent Raku code in seconds, preserving the original logic and structure.
What are the main differences between COBOL and Raku?
COBOL and Raku differ in syntax, type system, standard libraries, and common idioms, so copying code line for line usually will not compile. The converter maps each COBOL construct to its closest Raku equivalent. See the comparison table below for the key differences between COBOL and Raku.
Is the converted Raku code accurate?
The AI produces high-quality Raku code that preserves the behavior of your original COBOL code and follows Raku conventions. It handles common patterns, data structures, and idioms for both COBOL and Raku. For large or performance-critical code, review and test the Raku output before using it in production.
Can I convert an entire COBOL project to Raku?
You can convert COBOL files one at a time by pasting each file's code. For a full migration, convert each file and then review how classes, dependencies, and project structure map from COBOL to Raku. Signing in for free raises the input limit to 25,000 characters per conversion for larger files.
Can I convert Raku back to COBOL?
Yes. CodeConvert AI converts in both directions, so you can convert Raku to COBOL just as easily using our Raku to COBOL converter. Try the Raku to COBOL Converter
Is the COBOL to Raku converter free, and do I need to install anything?
Yes, it is free and runs in your browser with nothing to install and no IDE extension required. You can convert COBOL to Raku without an account for up to 2 conversions per day. Sign in for free for higher limits.
What are the benefits of signing in?
Signing in unlocks CodeConvert AI's Pro converter with more powerful AI models, a built-in chat assistant, code execution, saved conversion history, and personal notes. Every free account includes 5 credits and supports up to 25,000 characters of input per conversion, with no credit card required.
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