Comparing Python vs. Java, we notice that it is especially the small details that make the difference. While Python stands out for its user-friendliness, Java emphasizes security and stability.
Python and Java: two versatile languages
Both Python and Java are part of most versatile and popular programming languages in the world. If you’re considering learning to program, you should seriously consider one of these two options. Many companies swear by one of the two, and each has a large community. They are both suitable for applications on small to large projects. These two challengers certainly have a few things in common, but if you are looking for a new learning opportunity or the right solution for your project, it is worth taking a detailed look at the differences between Python and Java.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Python
Before comparing Python and Java, let’s explain what characterizes these two languages and what their respective advantages and disadvantages are. Python, developed in 1991 by Guido van Rossum, focuses on simplicity and readability of the code. Compared to most other programming languages, this one remains crystal clear. Its close connection with the English language makes it intuitive and easy to learn. Python is an object-oriented and platform-independent language. It is mainly used in software development, in the field of AI and machine learning, and for web applications. The open source programming language is under ongoing development by the Python Software Foundation. For a first look at the language, take a look at our Python Tutorial.
Benefits of Python
- Readability : learning Python is relatively quick and allows you to achieve results in a short time. If you want to quickly carry out a small project yourself without prior knowledge, Python is the best choice. In addition, its clear syntax facilitates collaboration within a team. Experienced development teams can also quickly enter other code and continue working with it.
- Flexibility : Python remains very versatile and flexible. The main reason ? The structure of the language, completely independent of different platforms. Thus, it is possible to launch a project on a given operating system without any problem to use the results on another. Its object-oriented approach and the use of a portable interpreter also contribute to this flexibility.
- Open Source : the open source side has always been present in Python. This means not only that the language is free with its source code open access, but also that it is continuously developed. Python thus remains up to date by constantly adapting. A definite advantage, both for new projects and for current projects.
- Community : the huge community also ensures the development and optimization of each version of Python. Its members provide comprehensive documentation and help beginners in many ways.
- Business : if Python is very popular among many development teams, it is also popular in many large companies. Google, Spotify, Uber and even Netflix rely entirely (or partially) on Python. On the one hand, their success is a testament to the capabilities of the programming language; on the other hand, we can say that this confidence bodes well for Python’s future prospects.
Disadvantages of Python
- Speed : it happens in certain cases that Python is a little slower than its competitors. This is not a big problem for small projects, but it can become a problem for larger applications.
- Mobile terminals : Python has development gaps for mobile devices. This is why there are relatively few mobile applications written in Python. The language also doesn’t offer basic compatibility with Android or iOS.
- Risk of error : if Python remains both secure and stable overall, its dynamic approach means that you have to wait for the execution environment to discover many errors. This means that the testing phases are longer in Python.
- Migration : No other programming language is as simple as Python. The corollary is that with Python you will not learn more about other languages. If you want or need to choose an alternative, you will almost have to start learning from scratch.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Java
Java is a bit younger than Python: in 1995, the object-oriented and class-based programming language was added to Java technology. It is especially in the area of mobile applications, for web servers and in embedded systems that we most often use this language. Java also works independently of platforms, hence its great flexibility. Additionally, the language operates under the GNU General Public License, so it is freely available and can be modified. It is a registered trademark of Sun Microsystems and Oracle.
Advantages of Java
- Portability : Java is platform independent, which gives it great portability. This way, you can easily use it on other systems or pass it on to other team members regardless of the platform on which you write Java code. This independence translates into significantly more efficient workflows.
- Libraries : There are many functions and libraries for Java, which often makes it possible to use existing solutions when working on a project. As these have already been tested and proven, their use simplifies the work considerably.
- Security : Java puts security first. Its different security levels are freely configurable and have no negative effect on overall performance. Insecure code can first be tested and verified in a siled environment, excluding any damage to individual files or the entire host system. Stability is also one of its major assets.
- Community : Java also has a large community of enthusiastic enthusiasts ready to provide documentation and help when you get stuck. Additionally, bugs and other issues are quickly identified and fixed.
Disadvantages of Java
- Number of words : Compared to other languages, Java stands out for its simplicity. The programming language uses many common language terms. This provides a certain advantage but also leads to lines of code that are sometimes very long and less clear.
- Performance : performance also does not always live up to expectations. For what ? Because Java is relatively memory intensive. Automatic memory management, which takes place without a thread, further increases the requirements. Languages directly translated into machine code are faster.
- GUI for desktops : Java offers few good, recommendable tools for creating graphical user interfaces. If the language remains really well suited to mobile development, it still lags a little behind for desktop environments.
Python vs. Java: what are the differences?
Having seen the two languages separately in detail, let’s now see what the direct comparison between Python and Java gives.
Syntax of the two languages
The most obvious difference is in their syntax. Python is known for its particularly simple and short syntax. With its many terms inspired by the English language, the code is generally limited to a few lines. Java, for its part, is much more complex, typed and requires knowledge of classes and keywords. The rules are very strict and the smallest error renders the code inoperative.
Here is an example of Python syntax:
>>> print("Bonjour ! C’est Python.")python
And its equivalent in Java language:
class Hallo {
public static void main/String[] args) {
System.out.println("Bonjour ! C’est Java.");
}
}Java
Other differences between Python and Java
Besides their different syntaxes, there are many other characteristics that distinguish Python from Java. Here are the most important ones:
- Performance : if both programming languages raise reservations for their performance, overall Java remains the faster choice. This is partly because Java takes a static approach and Python works dynamically. Java processes the code upfront and delivers it as bytecode, while Python creates it at runtime.
- Ease of use : clearly an advantage of Python. From the simplest setup to everyday work, the language stands out for its user-friendly and much simpler approach. In comparison, Java remains much more complicated and requires longer learning.
- Implementation : Java is one of the so-called “compiled” languages. It must first fully translate the code into machine language before executing it. Python, on the other hand, is a so-called “interpreted” language: its instructions are translated and executed directly. This makes the language both clearer but also a little slower.
- Stability : The two languages tend to both be very stable, but Java has managed to build a better reputation in this area over time. Their numerous security features, analysis tools and compatibility with older versions give Java projects their high degree of protection and stability.
Python vs. Java: which is the best?
The duel Python vs. Java is played individually and in detail. For quick use and immediate results, Python is definitely the best choice. Collaboration within large development teams is also easier with this language. Java, however, is aimed at experienced teams who prefer stability, are comfortable with more demanding syntax and work more in the field of mobile applications.
In the Digital Guide, find all the comparative articles between Python and other languages. Take a look at the Python vs. C++, Python vs. R, Python vs. Matlab or even Python vs. PHP.
