What’s the Difference Between Python and C++?
Two popular programming languages, Python and C++ see wide use across the technology industry for different purposes. C++ is the more venerable of the two, having ushered in the era of object-oriented languages. Python garnered popularity more recently, largely because of its suitability for data science and machine learning applications.
Let’s take a high-level overview of both languages, focusing on the notable differences between the two. Leverage these insights to take your career as a software engineer to another level. After all, knowing both makes you qualified for a wide array of interesting programming jobs.
What Language is Easier for Writing Code?
Python is a scripting language known for its ease in writing clear and concise code. By comparison, C++ is much more complex. It provides language constructs facilitating control over the CPU and other hardware, including graphics processors. This is a major reason C++ remains popular for writing high-performance video games.
Is Either Language Compiled?
Similar to Java, Python is an interpreted language, meaning a run-time interpreter translates the code while it’s executing. The same code essentially works on any computer with the right interpreter. On the other hand, C++ is a true compiled language, which makes it more suitable for applications where speed is critical. However, the underlying code needs to be modified for it to work on different operating systems.
Which Language is Better for Beginners?
Since C++ is quite complex compared to most other languages, it’s more suitable for experienced programmers. Complexities like memory pointers and address-of operators cause frustration for those new to programming. Python, as noted earlier, makes it easy to write code. As such, it’s considered to be a perfect language for those new to coding. This is one of the reasons for its wide popularity.
What Applications are Suitable for Each Language?
As noted earlier, C++ boasts superior performance compared to any interpreted language, such as Java or Python. For this reason, it gets used for high-end applications, like graphic-intensive videogames, video editing software, and digital audio workstations. In those cases, performance outweighs ease of programming.
Python’s relative ease and support for different paradigms, like functional programming and object-oriented programming, makes it suitable for many applications. These include AI and machine language development, data science, web applications, cybersecurity, and search.
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