Java and Python are two of the most popular languages out there. Both are remarkably versatile and flexible. And these characteristics of the object-oriented languages secured them positions on the list of the most in-demand programming languages among employers. That means you need to take them seriously. Having said that, we need to address the immediate question: Which one should you learn?
That’s the question we are dealing with here in this post. And let me warn you: there’s no easy answer. But you can certainly make a better decision about this when you’re thoroughly informed. Let’s delve deeper and try to find out whether you should learn Python or Java.
Java vs Python: Structural Design
Before diving much deeper, let’s consider the basic structure and design of both the language. This will clear the ground for a more comprehensive comparison of the programming languages. Whether you are an Android app developer or a data analytics enthusiast, you must know the basic structure of the frameworks use, right?
Object-Oriented Coding
Both Java and Python are object-oriented coding languages. That means both these languages allow you to create data objects through classes. While it might seem a complex concept if you’re a beginner, it lets you write well-designed and efficient code. The object-oriented structure ensures that classes are modular by nature. It also allows you to write a scalable code where you can do a lot with a shorter code.
If you are a beginner, you might be wondering how data can be an object. And you are not alone. The object-oriented structure is confusing for most beginners. Python has a way of dealing with this confusion. It supports multiple paradigms. So, using Python you can create functional code that is read from top to bottom. Besides, Python is also incredibly useful if you need to quickly develop an app in a few lines of code.
Code Readability And White Space
Without a forced-paradigm structure, Python is more beginner-friendly than Java. It also enables you to make many useful syntax decisions. For instance, with Python, you can use more white space. Python also requires less boilerplate code than Java. That means you can do more with less code.
Besides, the Python code doesn’t require semi-colons at the end of every statement. And this is huge. If you are writing code in Java, forgetting to add a semi-colon could mean a programming disaster. Your millions of lines code wouldn’t run just because you forgot to add a semi-colon. And this happens, no matter how experienced you are.
While this restriction of Java may seem like an unnecessary roadblock, it’s importance cannot be ignored. It forces you to write well-structured code. Additionally, such restrictions also prepare you for writing code in other languages. Most languages have their grammar and structure rules.
Java uses camelCase for functions and variables, whereas Python prefers ‘snake_case’. Overall, a code page of Python is more easy-to-read. It reads somewhat like English text. Whereas Java code is daunting in terms of readability, especially if you are a beginner.
Static vs Dynamic
While Java is a statically typed language, Python is dynamically typed. So, when you declare a variable in Java, you also need to describe what kind of variable it is. It could be “string” (a word or a sentence), an integer, or a float (a number with decimal places). In Python, things are much easier. You don’t need to decide the type of variable you are using right away.
Besides, with Python, function arguments can pass in any object. The “duck typing” capability makes Python much more convenient than Java. However, there are potential risks. It could make the code blunt to a casual observer and may lead to errors.
Compiled vs Interpreted
Python is an interpreted coding language. This means an interpreter installed on your computer can read and understand your Python code. It also means that if anyone wants to use your code, they will have to install an interpreter. Python doesn’t allow you to build an executable file and send it to your colleague, friend, or client. So, to build anything commercial, you need to use external tools and elaborate processes.
Unlike Python, Java is technically both interpreted and compiled. A Java code will be compiled first, but the target machine needs the JVM to run the code. And hence, Java is usually more portable. However, you need to follow a few steps to get the code in a usable way. And for Android app developers, this is an incredibly important point.
Java vs Python: Ease of Learning
The above discussion must have made it cleared that Python is usually much easier for beginners. For instance, Python is logical even for new programmers who don’t understand things like a class. This learner-friendly nature is perhaps the reason Python is used as a first programming language for teaching programming concepts.
Wrapping Up
The restrictions in Java are not just for the sake of creating restrictions. They can be extremely useful for developing good coding habits and practices early in your programming career. Ultimately, it’s your programming goals that must determine which language you should learn proficiently. Most employers and clients specify their requirements before they hire Android developers for any project. More than anything else, your skills should match the requirements of your employer or client.
At Android Developer, we nurture a team that is focused on continually learning new skills and technologies. Guided by trends-driven work culture, our team is known for its out-of-the-box thinking and swiftness of delivering projects.
FAQs
Q. What are Java and Python used for?
Python is great for writing quick code that performs useful functions. It’s widely used by security firms, and data analytics companies, among others. Besides, Python powers numerous leading platforms, including Spotify, Netflix, and Dropbox.
Java is more popular as an enterprise software development framework. It’s mainly used to develop mobile and desktop applications. Java is also an officially supported language for Android app development.
Q. How much does it cost to build an Android app?
The development cost for an Android mobile app depends on what kind of app you need. Costs are lower for an app with a basic design and simpler features. If you need a high-performance app with more advanced features, the cost will be comparatively higher. We offer competitive pricing for every kind of app.
Q. How long does it take to develop an Android app?
The development time of an Android mobile app depends on your requirements. If your requirements are limited and predefined it takes comparatively less time. We build design-rich mobile apps in truly short turnaround time.
