The debate between Java and Python is very common today. If you are also debating on it, this blog belongs to you. Here, we have made a detailed comparison of Java Vs Python. Read here.
While developing any business application, selecting the correct programming language is fundamental. It lays your app foundation. So, never dare to make a mistake on this note; otherwise, the results will never satisfy you.
However, coming up with the best programming language is critical, especially when choosing between Python and Java. Both stand against each other and give severe competition.
Considering the current Google Trend results, you can see that Python is leading the race, but Java is not far behind. But, it will not help you make the right decision.
A comprehensive guide of Java Vs. Python is always essential. It will help you better understand the technicalities and features since both programming languages have some differences that make them better for different tasks. This blog post will look at those differences to decide which would be best for your project.
So, let’s get started.
A Major Overview of Java and Python
What is Java?
Java is a general-purpose programming language compiled and mainly used for enterprise web applications. It was created in 1991 by Sun Microsystems, which later became Oracle Corporation after buying out the company. Java runs on servers, desktops, mobile phones, game consoles, and other devices.
The main benefit of using this language is that it’s cross-platform. It means that you can use the same code on different devices without recompiling it, which is very convenient. Java also has a large community and lots of resources available for Java developers.
What is Python?
Python is a high-level, general-purpose programming language that is great for beginners. It was created in the late 1980s by Guido van Rossum and has become one of the most popular coding languages today. Python runs on servers, desktops, mobile phones, game consoles, and other devices. One significant benefit to using this language is that it’s a scripting language, which means that you can write your program and then run it without compiling the code.
Another benefit of Python is that it has an easy-to-understand syntax, so you don’t have to deal with complex punctuation or symbols for it to work correctly. It makes programming less intimidating when you first start. Python also has a vast community and many resources available for developers.
Java Vs Python – A Detailed Comparison
Now that we have a general overview of Java and Python let’s look at the differences between these two languages.
1. Popularity – Which is more prevalent in the market, Java or Python?
Python has been ranked the fourth most popular coding language in market research. Java was ranked first among programming languages in a different study conducted by IEEE Spectrum.
Finally, Stack Overflow surveyed its users and found that 46% used Python while 36% used Java. It shows that both languages are prevalent in the coding world.
- Python-More popular than Java (ranked first by IEEE Spectrum).
- Python-Ranked as the fourth most popular programming language by TIOBE Index.
- Stack Overflow Survey: 46% of respondents were using Python; 36% were using Java
Popularity Winner: Tie
2. Syntax – How is the syntax of Java and Python different?
Syntax is the rules governing how a programming language is written. The syntax for Java is based on C++, while Python was designed to be easy to read and understand. One downside to Java’s syntax is that it can be very lengthy, meaning that you have to write a lot of code for it to work correctly.
Python-The syntax is much simpler than Java’s (designed to be easy to read)
Java-Based on C++; verbose, meaning you have to write more code for the same result
Syntax Winner: Python
3. Performance – How do Java and Python perform when compared to each other?
When it comes to performance, Java is usually faster than Python. However, this can vary depending on the project that you’re working on. Java is better for more complex applications, while Python is better for smaller scripts or prototypes.
Java-Faster than Python for more complex applications.
Python-Better for smaller scripts or prototypes.
Performance Winner: Java
4. Speed & Efficiency – Which language is more efficient, Java or Python?
Java and Python are considered to be highly efficient tools. The main difference regarding efficiency is their size and how that affects speed during runtime. The smaller a program is, the faster it will run because there’s less code for the processor to process.
Python-The size is much smaller than Java’s, making it faster
Java-Requires more code to work correctly, which makes it slower at runtime
Speed & Efficiency Winner: Python
5. Machine Learning – Which language is better for machine learning, Java or Python?
Machine learning refers to the ability of computers to learn without being explicitly programmed. Both languages are excellent choices for machine learning, but some might say they have different strengths in this area. Python is more intuitive for beginners, while Java offers better performance.
Java- More efficient than Python; good at machine learning
Python-Best suited for beginners; not that great with performance
Machine Learning Winner: Tie
6. Integration – Which language integrates better with other languages, Java or Python?
When it comes to integrating other coding platforms and tools, both of these languages work well. However, there are some differences between them. You can use multiple programming styles when creating your code in Python, whereas this is not possible in Java (it’s strictly object-oriented).
Java- No other integration than Python; strictly object-oriented.
Python-Can integrates with multiple coding platforms and styles.
Integration Winner: Tie
7. Code Readability – Which language is more readable, Java or Python?
When it comes to code readability, Python is usually the winner. It has to do with the simplicity of its syntax and the wide range of available libraries. Java can be difficult to read for beginners, while Python is easy to understand even if you’re new to programming.
Python- Easier for startups and beginners
Java- Difficult to read and understand for non-programmers; better performance in some cases.
Code Readability Winner: Python
8. Community – Which language has more community support, Java or Python?
When it comes to finding help online when you run into a problem with your code, the best choice is usually Python. Why? Because there are numerous communities available where members can post questions and get answers from other developers to solve any issues they may have.
Java- No community in comparison to Python
Python-Numerous communities available for help and support
Community Winner: Python
9. Security – Which language is more secure, Java or Python?
Java is considered more secure than Python because it has a stricter set of coding rules. It can make it difficult for hackers to exploit your code. However, this also means that Java applications are often larger and take longer to load.
Python-Less strict security rules; easier for hackers to exploit
Java- More difficult for hackers to exploit; applications are larger and take longer to load
Security Winner: Java
10. Cost-Which language costs more in web and desktop applications, Java or Python?
Both languages are free for open source development (although you can always purchase a license if required). However, there is usually no up-front fee when using the web app hosting services we recommend. You also don’t need any specific software installed on your computer to use Java or Python.
No difference in terms of cost
Winner: Tie
11. Scalable-Which language is more scalable, Java or Python?
Java and Python are both scalable in terms of language design. However, there are some advantages to each, depending on your circumstances. For example, Python is more flexible, so it’s easy to change the code around once you have a program up and running, whereas Java requires an entirely new process for any changes that need to be made down the line.
Java- Easier to make changes; more scalable than Python
Python- More flexible; You can change without restarting the program.
Scalable Winner: Java
12. Platform Support-Which language has more support for different platforms, Java or Python?
Java is one of the most popular programming languages because it’s supported by over 100 different types of devices/platforms. It includes operating systems like Windows and Linux and APIs from companies like IBM, Google, Oracle, PayPal, etc. The only downside is that Java isn’t as beginner-friendly as Python.
Python- Supported by a wide range of platforms
Java-Supported by over 100 different types of devices/platforms
Platform Winner: Python
So, which is finally better for business, Python or Java?
After knowing every programming language in detail, it’s easy to say that Python is better for business. Java is suitable for desktop and web applications with high-security measures, while Python has better scalability, readability, and community support. So the next time you’re starting a project or choosing a language for your business, go with Python.
Python is better for business because it’s more beginner-friendly, scalable, and has more community support. You can also connect with a Python web development company for better guidance.
But in the end, it all depends upon your requirements and budget. As you can see, Java is also beating Python in many areas. So, always make choices according to your budget and project requirements.
Good Luck!
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