When comparing Modern Compiler Design vs Compilers: Principles, Techniques, and Tools (2nd Edition), the Slant community recommends Compilers: Principles, Techniques, and Tools (2nd Edition) for most people. In the question“What are the best resources to learn about compiler construction?” Compilers: Principles, Techniques, and Tools (2nd Edition) is ranked 3rd while Modern Compiler Design is ranked 5th. The most important reason people chose Compilers: Principles, Techniques, and Tools (2nd Edition) is:
This book covers a wide variety of topics relating to compilers. Explanation are detailed with plenty of examples and exercises provided.
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro Covers broad range of topics
Modern Compiler Design covers a broad range of topics not often discussed in other compiler books. The compilation of parallel and logical languages for example.
Pro Good introduction
Modern Compiler Design touches on a variety of topics without being convoluted. It will help the reader grasp the fundamental concepts of compiler theory.
Pro Comprehensive
This book covers a wide variety of topics relating to compilers. Explanation are detailed with plenty of examples and exercises provided.
Pro Preferred among developers
"The Dragon Book" is frequently used in university courses and often the resource of choice by experienced developers.
Cons
Con Poor pseudo-code
The pseudo-code can be difficult to read and follow.
Con Dull book
Modern Compiler Design has large chapters with a condensed layout and dull typography.
Con Issues with Kindle version
There are issues present in the Kindle version that are not in the paper book. An error with an algorithm, and many formatting concerns have been noted.