It’s a question that dates back decades, and there’s no simple answer—Python vs Ruby, which is better? We can start by discussing why we’d compare these two languages to begin with. Python and Ruby are both ‘high-level coding languages,’ meaning they have a wide variety of uses for complex programming projects.
Both languages are known for their versatility in everything from building web applications to software engineering. There are numerous online resources for learning both. There, you’ll find people who prefer to use each one for different tasks.
In this article, we’ll point out the differences between the two languages. We’ll give you a better idea of what Python and Ruby do best. Indeed, which scripting language is ‘best’ is a matter of personal opinion. So use your own judgment to determine which is ‘best’ for you when comparing Python vs Ruby.
Python
Python originated in the early 1980s. It came from a programming language called ABC, but it didn’t develop into its current form until the 90s and 2000s. This older coding language is an ‘object-oriented’ code, which makes it ideal for large-scale programming projects.
Most operating systems are entirely compatible with this code, which makes it a popular choice for developing desktop applications. Many people use it for building web apps as well, including big-name websites like Google and YouTube. Python is an extremely organized and versatile coding language, and it’s a favorite for a wide range of projects.
Compared to other high-level coding languages, it is easy to learn Python. Plus, the versatility of this language and availability of open source projects makes Python programming even more attractive. Python has a strong foothold in the world of machine learning and data science. And while both Python and Ruby are excellent for functional programming, some languages (like Python and Django) hold an edge over Ruby.
What is Python Best For?
Python is an excellent choice for desktop application development, and many prefer to use it for mobile development, too. However, Python is also very popular in web development due to its versatility.
Ruby
Ruby is another widely-used and versatile programming language that originated in Japan in the early 1990s. Yukihiro Matsumoto (or ‘Matz’) created it to make programming more fun and understandable. As a result, many people believe that Ruby is much easier to learn and follow. The language is made with developer understanding in mind.
Ruby is primarily a web development language, and many coders prefer it due to its excellent ‘Ruby-On-Rails’ features. Ruby-On-Rails allows developers to focus more on the business aspects of a website. At the same time, it helps to rapidly build the functionality of the site.
Plus, it frees developers from spending too much time on the technicalities of the code. The Rails controller allows developers to organize, categorize seamlessly, and separate aspects of the site. These include different categories for business functions, user interface, and data.
What is Ruby Best For?
Many people consider Ruby one of the easier programming languages to learn. Its logical design makes it an excellent choice for intermediate coders. Some of the best uses of Ruby are web development projects, especially websites for business thanks to the Ruby-On-Rails platform.
When it comes to web frameworks, Ruby is right at home. Ruby on Rails frameworks help developers solve problems when building a website, and help contribute to Ruby’s popularity. When it comes to Ruby vs Python for web development, Ruby is often the clear winner.
Python vs Ruby… Or Learn Both?
Both Python and Ruby are logical and well-designed programming languages with a variety of real-world applications. They’re both popular for a reason. Each has its upsides and downsides, and one may not be ideal in certain situations. So, perhaps asking which is better, Python vs Ruby, is the wrong question.
If you’re pursuing a career as a programmer, it’s smart to master both languages. It provides the option to choose whichever works best for a specific project. Though they’re both versatile, there’s no single language that’s perfect for every coding task.
If you’re ready to learn Ruby, Python, or both, check out how a coding bootcamp can set you up for success in a software coding career. If you’re not ready to move into Python and Ruby, check out this article to see what languages you should learn first.
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