Java Vs Python
What are the basic differences between python and java:
Java
Java is a high-level programming language that is similar to C++, but it is strictly a program-oriented language. It was made with the intention of write-once-run-anywhere language, with zero dependencies or glitches possible.
Python
Python is a dynamic, general-purpose programming language. It is a desirable option for Rapid Application Development, courtesy of its built-in data structures, combined with dynamic typing and binding. Python reduces the cost of program maintenance.
One of the benefits of Python revolves around how the interpreter and resource library are available for free on the internet. Python, therefore, becomes an excellent option for anyone not willing to invest too much in development costs. And, Python has fascinating real world applications.
Important Parameters for Comparison
Considering that both these programming languages are market leaders, a few technical comparisons will shed better light on how they are different from each other. Below are the parameters to consider for a difference between Java and Python.
- Popularity
- Syntax
- Performance
- Source
- Machine Learning
- Game Development Engines
Popularity
Difference between java and python in terms of popularity:
Both languages have always fought for popularity. After the arrival of JavaScript, however, they have been in a close tussle for the best spot.
In Stackoveer’s 2018 survey of developers, Python was crowned as the fastest-growing programming language after surpassing C++. Java reflected as a popular choice by many developers, even though the gap between both languages had reduced significantly.
Syntax
Difference between java and python in terms of syntax:
Python is an extremely dynamic language. While typing, the developer doesn’t have to input the variables. These are input during the runtime. This makes Python an easy language, almost similar to English.
Another element of the ease with the language is that it does not follow indentation rules or enclosing braces. The result is a language that is beginner-friendly and uncomplicated to read.
Java is diametrically opposite in this respect. It has very strict syntax rules, where you need to type in all the variables, and should there be an error or anomaly in the code, the program won’t run.
For example, in Java, to define a block or method with multiple lines, we need to put the lines inside of curly brackets. Whereas, Python allows indentation for writing blocks with multiple lines as well.
Performance
Difference between java and python in terms of performance:
Both Java and Python are run by compiling the bytecode and running them on virtual machines. This makes both languages cross-platform, with no operating system differences. It might seem that both have similar performance, but there is a fundamental difference between the two.
Java is characterize by static-typing syntax. With this kind of syntax, the compilation is a lot easier and faster than dynamic-typed syntax. It is less prone to errors and targets the platforms that it is aim for better.
Java also comes with a Just-in-time (JIT) compiler. This device compiles the bytecode into the native machine, because of which the compiled code can be called directly. This function primarily adds to the speed and efficiency of the language. However, Java codes are also quite long and can get difficult to understand.
Source
For Python, the code is processed during the compile time, and this is when the variables are considered. The code typed in dynamic-type syntax isn’t as agile or verbose to comply with every platform.
Since Python is tested usually during the runtime, any problem with the program can keep the whole application on hold. So All of these variables together have led to reduced efficiency and speed of the language.
Sometimes, the differences between Java and Python can come out to be very significant. A simple binary tree test, for example, can run ten times faster in Java than in Python.
Machine Learning
Java vs Python usage in Machine learning:
Python is syntactically very easy, and therefore people from different backgrounds found it as a comfortable choice. With Python, they were easily able to experiment with machine learning and use it in their respective fields. This is how Python initiated the adaptation of machine learning by many organizations. It because of its history in developing organization-specific machine learning that it has a vast library and resources that are being accessed and developed further. Read more about the python libraries for machine learning.
Java is also considered as an option by many. With characteristics such as easy debugging and usage, it is used for large-scale operations and enterprise-level programs. Weka, Mallet, Deeplearning4j, and MOA are the libraries a developer can use for Java.
Game Development Engines
Java vs Python application in game development engines:
C++/C# is undoubtedly the leader in PC Game development, and both Java and Python cannot compete against it. C# has always provided a seamless user experience to gamers with the best performance. Now, Java or Python particularly is not slow, but they can’t provide the experience C# has been providing so far.
However, it would be wrong to completely rule out Python for game development. It is a popular choice of developers for a variety of programs, and Also it has become a popular scripting language for some game developers too. Read more about PyGame: Game development with Python.
Language Development and Users
- Python is best suited for the following kinds of programs
- Java is best recommended for these programs
Python is best suite for the following kinds of programs:
- Games
- Image processing and graphic designing
- Language development
- Machine Learning Apps
- Operating Systems
- Prototyping
On the other hand, there are numerous Java User Groups (JUGs) across the world and various high-profile events like JavaOne are organized by Java Programmers.
Java is best recommend for these programs:
- Middleware Products
- Mobile Applications
- Enterprise Solutions and Embedded Systems
- Desktop GUI Apps
Java vs Python
Summary of differences between Java and Python:
| CHARACTERISTIC | PYTHON | JAVA |
| Syntax | Easy to learn and use | Complex includes a learning curve |
| Performance | Slower than Java | Relatively fast |
| Cross-Platform | Yes | Yes, thanks to the JVM |
| Game Development Engines | Yes, Cocos, Panda3d | Yes MonkeyEngine |
Conclusion
Python vs Java performance: Having considered both languages against various parameters, it is not clear which language trumps the other one.
Java may be a more popular option, but Python is widely use. People from outside the development industry have also used Python for various organizational purposes. Similarly, Java is comparatively faster, but Python is better for lengthy programs.
Eventually, it depends upon the type of program a developer wants to create. If you consider the above parameters, and a language ticks most of your boxes, it is safe to go ahead with it. However, if you are beginning to foray into development, Python might be a better choice. On the other hand, Java will be the preferred option for enterprise-level programs.