Python versus Java

Two of the most popular software development languages at the moment are Python and Java. Together and apart, they can create some incredible features and applications and have become staples for companies and the technologies they create around the world. Today we compare Python and Java.

How Similar are Python and Java? 

Later on, we’ll discuss the difference in learning and writing each language, but beyond learning and code creation itself, both languages are similar in many ways. 

1. Extensive libraries
   While Python is famed for the number of libraries available for it, both languages offer extensive libraries that are incredibly useful in building applications. 
2. Excellent for web development
   Python and Java are incredible languages for building in web development. As a result, they are the most-used coding languages in the world, after JavaScript. 
3. Data Science
   While Python is the most popular of the two languages for data science, Java is is a worthy opponent. In some areas, you may even find that Java is better than Python. As already mentioned, both languages have extensive libraries that make life much easier for data scientists. 
4. Machine learning
   Java and Python are widely accepted for many machine learning tasks. Python has a reputation for taking much of the pain away from working in this field, while Java is hugely beneficial to use because so much big data is written in Java. 

Is Java or Python more useful? 

Both Python and Java are incredibly useful, and to decide which one is more useful is a difficult question. However, depending on what it is you need them for, usefulness can be measured in different ways. 

There can be no denying that Python is becoming increasingly popular among businesses because of its ease of use and practicality in the likes of Blockchain, IoT, AI, MR, and automation applications. But Java has proven itself as a powerhouse in these areas too. 

Python is more useful in the sense that if your need an application made in a hurry, it is a lot quicker to build using it. Therefore, it is also quicker to edit with Python. 

On the other hand, as we’ll discuss later, Java is a more powerful language and will run a programme faster. 

Many would argue that Python is more useful, and vice versa for Java. However, it can be said that both of these languages can do mostly the same things, but it’s quicker to compile an application using Python.

How much faster is Java than Python?

Unlike comparing the top speeds of two cars, Java and Python cannot be measured in the same way in terms of performance.  Java is what is called a compiled language. This means that the target machine translates the Java programme directly. Python, on the other hand, is an interpreted language. This means that a programme is translated line-by-line. Simply put, Java has the power to run programmes faster than Python. 

However, the question is whether or not this is actually realised by the end-user? Regardless of its operating speed, it can do many of the things that Java can do with the benefit of taking less time to build, as unlike Java it does not require to be compiled. Python is very productive with a very simple syntax.

Amazing libraries and possibilities

The fact is, both of these languages are incredible. On Python’s side, it has access to more amazing libraries and its possibilities are endless, while on Java’s side, once you’ve gone through the arduous task of building with it, its capability of processing at speed is incredible. 

There are areas though where Python is really beginning to shine. With data now worth more than gold, companies around the world are starting to search even harder for Python-educated coders. This is an area where R as a language has proven popular, but increasingly it looks like Python will become even more popular in this field. 

Which language is easier, Python or Java?

Generally, it is recognised that Python is an easier language to learn than Java. Python is a very readable language. In fact, this is a dynamically-typed language that reads like English, which means that developers can spend more time thinking about solutions as opposed to the lines of code that will build the solutions. Java, on the other hand, is a statically-typed language, which can take longer to create and can be complicated. However, for those working regularly with Java, this can be a moot point. 

Python is growing rapidly, as is its community. This community makes it more attractive to businesses that are currently suffering from the global skills gap. Also, as a language, it is incredibly assistive for data analysis, Blockchain, streaming, and effectively all of the major keywords of today. It offers a wide choice of libraries and frameworks, which makes it even easier to use. Java also has access to deep libraries, but for people starting out in software development, it is far easier to learn Python (for most) than it is Java.

While Python may be an easier language for developers to get to grips with, it does not mean that it’s a basic language that’s only meant for people to start off with. As a language, Python can be something that you could build your entire career out of. Practically, this could be the only language you ever learn. However, our advice is that you should always be learning. And after you master one language, there is no harm in learning how to operate with other languages. Doing this can only make you stronger and more important to any business. 

Which language should I learn – Python or Java

If you’re considering getting the skills for a career change to software development, learning Python is a good move. Firstly, because it is the easiest language to learn (not to imply it’s easy, there will be hiccups on your journey). Secondly, it’s in huge demand, which is growing all the time. However, once you’ve mastered Python, then would be a good time to learn Java. 

Learn some code for free

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