Python vs Java — What Is the difference?

Java and Python are both powerful cross-platform languages with extensive libraries. And they have been widely used in the development industry because of these qualities, no doubt. If you’re a pro programmer, you must know how functional both languages are, but if you’re just starting and want to know which one to learn first, we’re here to briefly compare Python and Java for you. 

What Is Python?#

Python, a cross-platform language, was released in 1991 by Guido Van Rossum. The purpose of Python is to allow users to learn a language quickly because of its simplicity. Python is an easy-to-use language, making it a popular choice for beginner and experienced programmers alike.

Python’s syntax is clear and concise, resembling the English language, which makes it easy for developers to read and understand code. It’s a versatile language because it can be used for various applications, including web development, data analysis, AI, scientific computing, and automation.

Python is an object-oriented programming language, but because it’s easy to understand, it can also be used for functional and reflective programming. Unlike many other programming languages that use braces {} to define code blocks, Python uses indentation (spaces or tabs) to signify blocks, promoting a clean and consistent coding style.

Advantages of Python#

• Easy to Learn: Unlike other programming languages, Python is easy to learn and read. If you’re a beginner, Python would be a great starting point.

• Platform Independent: Python is platform independent, meaning that it can be used on various platforms, including MacOS, Windows, and Linux.

• Support for Multiple Paradigms: Python supports multiple paradigms, including OOP, reflective, and functional programming styles. The flexibility allows developers to choose the best approach for their project requirements.

• Great for Data Science & Machine Learning: Python is frequently used in the fields of data sciences, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Its extensive libraries like NumPy, Pandas, and scikit-learn make it a perfect choice for data analysis.

• Extensive Library: Python comes with an extensive standard library that provides a large number of modules and functions for various tasks. Moreover, Python allows for third-party frameworks and libraries created by the community. These libraries cover almost every use case imaginable, from scientific computing and data analysis (NumPy, pandas) to web development (Django, Flask) and machine learning (TensorFlow, PyTorch).

Disadvantages of Python#

• Memory Issues: Python needs a lot of memory, and it can be an issue if you’re working on a project and objects are active in RAM.

• Mobile App Development: Python is not widely used for mobile app development because the ecosystem is not mature enough to build applications. You can use frameworks like Kivy or BeeWare, but it is not as effective as creating mobile applications in Java.

• Design Restrictions: Python’s emphasis on readability and simplicity sometimes limits the flexibility of certain design patterns, especially in large-scale projects where strict adherence to certain programming paradigms may be required.

What Is Java?#

Java is a high-level, object-oriented language created by Sun Microsystems and later acquired by Oracle in 1995. Unlike Python, Java is a compiled language, making it much faster. Developers widely use Java for web and mobile development.

Due to its speed, durability, and efficiency, Java is now being used in Cloud development, the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data applications. Java follows the principles of object-oriented programming, allowing developers to organize code into reusable and modular objects. This helps in creating well-structured, scalable, and maintainable applications. If you’re familiar with C and C++, Java will be much easier to learn because its syntax is similar.

Advantages of Java#

• Platform Independent: Just like Python, Java is also platform independent, meaning that developers can write code once and use it on multiple platforms.

• Extensive Libraries and Frameworks: Java also offers an extensive standard library that provides a set of pre-built classes and methods for various tasks. It also offers a variety of third-party libraries and frameworks for developers to play around efficiently.

• Quality Support: Java offers a large, active development community with quality resources, documentation, and support. Developers can find answers to common problems, share knowledge about updates, and contribute to improving the language.

• Versatility: Java’s versatility allows it to be used in a wide range of applications and industries, from web and mobile development to scientific computing, cloud computing, and enterprise software.

• Secure Language: Java is secure due to its strong type-checking, exception handling, and automation management. It also has features like sandboxing for applets, which helps create secure web and mobile applications

Disadvantages of Java#

• No Modern Language Features: Java’s evolution was relatively slow compared to other trending programming languages. It lacks modern language features like duck typing and a type interface.

• Complex Language: Java is an object-oriented language, but it can be complex, especially for beginners. Concepts like inheritance, polymorphism, and abstraction might be hard to understand for programmers not coming from an OOP background.

• Security Vulnerabilities: Although Java has built-in security mechanisms, it is not immune to security vulnerabilities. In the past, there have been instances of security exploits in Java applications and applets.

Difference Between Python and Java#

Now that you’ve learned about Python and Java separately, let’s compare both languages and determine their best features, respectively. We’ve created a table to help you understand the difference between Java and Python.

Wrapping Up#

Python and Java are top languages when it comes to development. No doubt, both of them have their own benefits and drawbacks. But when it comes to learning, you have to choose one and start with it. While both languages are essential and beneficial to learn, selecting the most suitable courses for you to learn to code in Java and Python is also important.

Educative offers hundreds of interactive courses and skill paths for beginner and experienced developers. Don’t forget to check out our top-rated Python courses and become a Python expert with Educative. You can learn Java from our experienced developers with slick coding environments and text-based courses. Check out the courses now and begin your coding journey.

Happy Learning!