There is an old debate regarding Python and Java when it comes to choosing the best programming language. The truth is there isn’t a correct answer. They both have their advantages and disadvantages and it is up to you to choose the one that suits your needs.
Today we are going to analyse all the pros and cons so that it will be easier for you to make a choice. There are plenty of things Python and Java have in common, but there are also numerous features that differentiate these two.
There is plenty of library support for both Java and Python and developers seem to use them both equally. However, there are many things that differentiate these two. There are some clear differences, while others are more subjective.
Types of languages
We should start by mentioning that Python is an interpreted language, while Java is a compiled one. Obviously, each type has its characteristics. It is hard to say which language is faster or better, and most developers have contradicting opinions. Usually, the context in which a language is used influences its performance.
The way you write these languages is also different. When you use Python you use indentation if you want to create a structure. Meanwhile, in Java you will have brackets for that. Some developers seem to believe that indentation makes the code well structured.
Each programmer can choose the structure which appears more accessible. This is usually up to each person, and you decide which structure allows you to type faster. Since many developers also use templates and coding environments, this might not be that big of an issue.
The threading models of these two programming languages is completely different as well. Python can run on a single CPU core at a time and that is because it is single-threaded, unlike Java. This makes it a lot easier to use a CPU with Python.
Popularity
If we take a look at the popularity of these languages, there are some clear differences. Java has been around for more time, so it remains the most popular language. However, Python had an impressive evolution, and if it continues to rise that way, it is very likely that it will overcome Java.
Nonetheless, just because Java is older, this does not mean that it does not evolve. Developers continue to add new features and they are doing their best to make Java faster and more powerful. The JVM is also a great tool when it comes to creating cross-platform Java apps.
If you are thinking about money, you should know that a freeCodeCamp post revealed that programmers who use Python earn more money than those who use Java.
Learning process
When you are choosing a programming language you should also think about how much it will take you to learn it. Obviously, you also need to take into account your current knowledge. If you are a beginner and you have no experience you might want to choose Python. It doesn’t take that much time to get used to it and it has a wide range of techniques. Java can be simple for you if you already know how to program in C++ for example.
You should also think about the way the code is presented. Nowadays, programmers aren’t the only persons who have to work with code, so you must think about the skills of all the persons involved. Python supports the literate programming approach, which can be a big plus. These programs offer explanations, graphs and pictures in a document, while the code remains executable.
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Henry Lares is still early into his career as tech reporter but has already had his work published in many major publications including Tech Crunch and the Huffington Post. In regards to academics, Henry earned an engineering degree from Apex Technical School. Henry has a passion for emerging technology and covers upcoming products and breakthroughs in science and tech.
