This article will cover the fundamentals of both C++ and Python, including their respective syntaxes, their similarities and distinctions, as well as their practical applications and features.
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Software engineers are currently the most sought-after employees, with a current need for more than 1.4 million software developers in the US alone. However, when this field was relatively new, C++ was one of the first programming languages to show up. Bjarne Stroustrup’s brainchild C++ is the language that took software development by storm and led to the rise of some of the most popular platforms used today, like Google and YouTube.
C++ is a more intermediate-level programming language due to its confusing syntax and logic. Thus, more experienced programmers and software developers prefer to use this language instead.
Python is a newer programming language designed by Guido Van Rossum. One of the most popular programming languages today, Python is simple and easy to understand, making it an ideal learning platform for budding software developers. Netflix, Quora, Instagram? You can thank Python for those.
Python is easier to read since the program logic can be broken down to simple English while coding. Even if you do not understand the meaning or working of a given command, you can make out its function by reading the English-like syntax.
The Python vs. C++ debate has many developers confused and trapped. They must know the intricacies of both these programming languages to make up their mind. Therefore, understanding the differences between Python and C++ is essential.
Arguably the greatest advantage of using Python over C++ is the easy syntax. Python is remarkably English-like in its code structure and language. Thus, it is a lot easier to understand in comparison to C++, which utilizes more symbols, characters, and abbreviations that are harder to grasp. C++ programs will not execute unless the developer goes through the laborious process of declaring the program header, variable types, and code body. The following is a comparison of C++ and Python output code, respectively:
cout << "Hello World!" << endl;
print ("Hello World")
You get the idea. The bottom Python code is a lot simpler.
The typical software engineer’s kryptonite: revision and correction. Regardless of your coding expertise, you will undoubtedly have to go through your program code blocks if you want to make improvements, correct errors, or make additions. Python helps make this process quicker since it is easier to read. C++ can be tricky to navigate because of the seemingly confusing code, particularly for new developers. The Python vs. C++ debates shifted in favor of Python as far as ease of use goes.
Speed and time management are two of the most important factors when choosing a programming language. C++ programs take less time to execute since C++ is a statically-typed language, meaning that the developers declare all variable or quantity values when they create the code. Python uses dynamic typing. In this case, the value inputs must be given at execution, slowing down the entire process and increasing run time.
It is desirable to keep memory usage as little as possible at the time of program execution since this lowers the cost and increases speed. Python makes a comeback in the Python vs. C++ debate by having an automatic garbage collector. Therefore, the memory management system automatically removes all discarded code and garbage values. This is one of the main differences between Python and C++ since C++ programmers have to do this manually.
You have to use variables in a program if you wish to assign some values to it. C++ programs issue compilation errors if the developer does not manually declare the variable type. For example, if you are using a variable to represent the number of people in a gathering, you must mention that the variable is an integer. Python removes this added hassle reducing the amount of code you have to write.
Regardless of the differences between Python and C++, you cannot decide the best tool for you unless you know the use you intend to make of the programming language. C++ is ideal for hardware-based programs like microcontrollers and embedded systems. Python is more applicable to artificial intelligence and software that has heavy use of graphics and vibrant user interfaces.
C++ currently ranks as the 4th most popular programming language in the world. However, Python ranks number one with a 29.53% usage share globally. Therefore, the latter secures another win in the Python vs. C++ race with its worldwide popularity.
Another important point in the Python vs. C++ debate, programs created with Python are less likely to have memory leaks due to the automatic memory management system. However, C++ programs do not offer very high memory protection due to manual systems. It is worth mentioning that this phenomenon can only be observed in heavy software with lots of code.
Although the intended use and application is a factor that would significantly affect the answer to this question, Python seems to win the debate. All things considered, it is a better tool than C++. The syntax is easier to understand, the language is readable and by extension programs based on Python are more scalable, and the programming language is more suited to modern applications.
Python is expected to keep rising in popularity, just like its astounding 456% growth rate in 2018. Moreover, the demand for streaming and video-watching applications has increased dramatically in recent years. Python is tailor-made for creating such platforms that need to have attractive displays, high GUI (Graphics User Interface) usage, and top memory systems.
Python and C++ are both globally used and respected programming tools. C++ is slowly becoming more obscure due to the rise of newer languages and contenders like C and C#, both of which are variants of C++. It is still a powerful program creation tool to use. For more technical knowledge and professional guidance, visit Xperti today. It could be the best option for ensuring that you progress professionally in the right direction.
Also Read: Building AI: Java Vs Python
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