Python was created in 1991 by Guido van Rossum, a Dutch programmer. It is now one of the most popular programming languages in the world. Nearly 50% of all programmers worldwide use Python, and it’s definitely one of the top three most popular languages. The debate continues in the world of coding: Python 2 or Python 3?
You might be new to programming and wonder what the differences are. This guide will explain the differences between Python 2 and 3. We will also provide helpful tips for learning how to code and joining the 8 million other Python developers.
What is Python?
Let’s begin with the basics: what is Python? Python is a popular programming language that allows coders to create versatile and powerful projects. It’s used in almost every industry and is a valuable language for all types of projects. If you are a beginner to coding, Python is a great place to start. It is easy to learn and appreciated by employers.
Python, like everything else in life has seen many changes since its 1991 release. Python 2 and 3 are today the most powerful versions.
Python 2 was released in 2000. It has been around for a while. The upgrade made Python 2 more accessible to the average user. It also added many desired features such as Unicode support and list comprehension. It was an easy choice to transition from Python 1 into Python 2.
Python 3 was much more than an upgrade when it came out in 2008. Python 3 wasn’t compatible with its predecessor. This was the problem with Python 3. Given the number of Python 2 applications and developers, the shift has been slow. Python supported both languages until 2020.
Which is better? Python 2 vs. Python 3. For new developers, it is possible to feel confused. You don’t want your time wasted learning an obsolete language. However, Python 2 may still be beneficial.
What is Python used for?
Python is a versatile tool that can be used for everything, from software engineering to machine-learning. Python is used by both developers and beginners alike. Many people use Python for general purposes such as data organization or financial management. Expert coders and website designers also use Python.
Python is used by many big companies. Pixar and Intel are all heavily dependent on Python. A large part of academia, especially in bioinformatics and biology, is dependent on Python.
What can Python be used for?
Software and websites development
Automated task management
Data analysis
Data visualization
Machine learning
Everyday tasks, such as keeping track of stock market movements or converting text files into spreadsheets.
Python is still so popular, even after thirty years. This is because it is so versatile. It is simple to learn because of its syntax. It’s powerful, however, and there is a large active community that supports each other.
Python 2 vs. Python 3. What’s the Difference?
You need to be able to tell the difference between Python 2 & 3. Although Python 3 has been around for a decade, many companies still use Python 2. Many still use Python 2, even though Python 2 support ended two years ago. Both languages still have a place in the modern world. What are the key differences between them?
Python 2 was launched back in 2000, while Python 3 was launched back in 2008.
Python 2 considers the “print keyword” to be a statement, while Python 3 considers it a function.
Python 2 stores strings using ASCII, while Python 3 uses Unicode.
Python 2 has a more complex syntax that Python 3.
Many Python 2 libraries don’t work forward with other Python libraries; many libraries only use Python 3.
Python 2 support was discontinued by Python in January 2020. Python 3 is still the most popular choice.
Python 2 vs. Python 3. Which is the Best to Learn?
Many companies still use Python 2–fourteen year after the introduction Python 3–because it is difficult to transfer codes between Python 2 and 3. It can take many years. DropBox took three years to migrate, despite Guido Van Rossum working with them.
While Python 3 is a good choice, it’s still a good idea to be familiar with Python 2. It is a good idea to have some knowledge if your company uses outdated code or is in the process of migrating. Python 2 has lost the interest of many developers.
Python 3 is the latest, most powerful, easier-to-learn, safer, and simpler option. Python 3 is the best choice for new developers, since Python has discontinued Python 2 support. It might seem overwhelming to start. There are many languages available, including Java and HTML. The best choice is to start with the most current language.
Employers will value Python 3 experience more than Python 2. Although it is better to be proficient in multiple languages, Python 3 is the most widely used and most valued.
