Java vs Python which should you lean on in 2024?
Which programming language is more relevant in 2024? Such queries arise when an individual wants to choose the exclusive language for their career. Or when making a crucial business decision, and needs clarification about which language suits them best.
Both these queries are inter-connected. Businesses use language that is aligned with their needs which creates their demand. New developers follow and learn these languages.
When we have such a comprehensive comparison between Java and Python, both prominent languages from the early 2000s, it needs a detailed understanding. As Stastica suggests, Java was the most popular language until 2019, still in the top 5, whereas Python took the world by storm and is being improved most rapidly today.
Both languages have their use cases, advantages, and industrial needs but before we conclude which one you should lean on in 2024, let us take a brief look at Python and Java.
What is Java?
Java is a high-level, class-based, object-oriented programming language. It is general-purpose, meaning it can be used to develop a wide variety of applications, not just web applications. Some examples include
Mobile applications: Especially Android apps.
Desktop applications: Many software programs you use on your computer.
Web applications: This is a common use, but not the only one.
Big data applications: For processing and analyzing large datasets.
Enterprise software: Complex applications used by businesses.
Advantages of using Java?
Java is a go-to for complex data handling needs i.e. a dominant player in finance, healthcare, and other major industries. It is a mature and stable language with a large and active community that can cater to a large area of programming needs.
Other benefits include:
- Secure
- Object-oriented
- Platform independent
- Automatic memory management
- Supports functional programming
Where Java Falls Short?
Java has some drawbacks despite its many strengths.
- Performance
- Memory Consumption
- Cost
- Verbosity
- Learning Curve
When do Enterprises choose Java?
Java’s “write once, run anywhere” and mature ecosystem make it a top choice for building enterprise software. This translates to secure, scalable applications that integrate seamlessly and are backed by a vast developer pool. Let’s see how Java empowers different industries:
Industries that favor Java
- Enterprise Software Development
- Financial Services
- E-commerce and Retail.
- Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management
- Big Data and Analytics
It is also a key player in:
- Game Development
- Cloud Computing
- Artificial Intelligence
- IoT Applications
- Chatbots and Marketing Tools
And other newfound technologies.
What is Python?
Python (first released in 1991) is a high-level, interpreted, object-oriented language known for its clear and concise code. This makes it a favorite for beginners, allowing them to grasp programming concepts without complex syntax.
But Python’s strength goes beyond ease of learning. It’s versatile, supporting various programming styles (object-oriented, structured, functional), and popular for rapid application development due to its built-in features and extensive libraries.
It also simplifies things for beginners with dynamic typing (no need to declare variable data types) and automatic memory management (garbage collection) which makes it a popular choice for developers and businesses alike.
Advantages of using Python
Python’s popularity as a programming language isn’t without reason. Beyond its beginner-friendly nature, it offers a range of advantages that empower developers:
- Rich Ecosystem
- Open & Collaborative
- Intuitive Data Handling
- Flexibility with Dynamics
- Runs Everywhere
- Versatility
Where Python Falls Short?
While Python excels in many areas, it’s essential to acknowledge its potential drawbacks for certain use cases:
- Performance
- Runtime Errors
- Memory Usage
- Mobile Development
- Low-Level System Programming
When do Enterprises choose Python?
Python’s versatility and ease of use make it a compelling choice for various enterprise tasks. Here’s a closer look at the key scenarios where Python empowers businesses:
- Rapid Prototyping and Development
- Data Science and Machine Learning
- Backend Development
- Integration and Scripting
What’s the difference between Java vs Python?
Java and Python are both powerful languages but target different niches. Java, statically typed and compiled, excels in large, performant applications (enterprise, Android). Python, dynamically typed and interpreted, prioritizes rapid development, data science, and readability. Some of their key differences are:
Programming Paradigm
Java is primarily object-oriented but also has some support for functional programming. Python, on the other hand, is a highly versatile language that supports multiple paradigms, including object-oriented, functional, and procedural, making it a popular choice for a wide range of applications.
Typing
Java is a statically typed language, which means that variables require explicit declaration of data types. On the other hand, Python is dynamically typed, meaning that data types are determined at runtime, offering more flexibility. This approach may lead to less upfront error checking.
Execution
Java is a compiled programming language, where the code is translated into bytecode that can be executed by the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). This feature makes it platform-independent. Whereas, Python code is executed line by line by an interpreter, which can make it slower than compiled code.
Performance
When it comes to performance, Java is generally faster than Python. However, Python is often preferred for its readability and ease of development, which are top priorities for many applications.
Development Speed
Python’s clear syntax makes it easier to learn and write code quickly, while Java has a steeper learning curve due to its verbosity and static typing.
Applications
Java is a popular language for enterprise and big data applications, web development (backend), and Android development. Python is commonly used for data science, machine learning, automation, scripting, and web development (backend and full-stack).
Java vs Python: Which is a better choice
Both Java and Python are powerful languages, but they excel in different areas. Java is ideal for complex, secure enterprise applications (think banking or large-scale web apps). Its focus on performance and static typing makes it a great choice for Android development too.
Python is perfect for fast development and data exploration (data science, machine learning). Its clear syntax and vast libraries make it easy to learn and use.
In a nutshell:
Java: Performance & Security (Enterprise)
Python: Readability & Speed of Development (Data Science)
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your project’s needs. Java tackles complex, high-performance tasks, while Python excels in getting things done quickly and clearly, especially when data is involved.