There is a notion that, when surrounded by comic book enthusiasts, you may never ask which one is better between Marvel and DC. Something similar applies in cases where the bystanders programmers. You should not ask for a choice between Java and Python. Chances are that you are not going to see the end of it.
There are solid and logical arguments both in favour and against and the active supporting communities back them up. “Civilians” have no idea what this is about, while novice programmers find themselves in a dilemma on which side to take. Let’s discuss the issue.
Java. Dominating for decades
In one corner of the ring, we have a general-purpose object-oriented programming language that utilizes classes: Java. It dates back to 1995 and since then, it has been widely used on numerous platforms. It is also considered as a stepping stone in programming and it has an extensive range of available libraries and frameworks for apps and programs, as it basically runs anywhere and everywhere.
Those are the characteristics that allowed Java to reign supreme over other programming languages for decades. However, this is not the case anymore. Recent studies have shown that app developers favour other languages when working with Android OS. New programmers seem to find Java too verbose and with too much boilerplate code for their taste. So they are looking for the archenemy’s syntax simplicity.
The, not so new, kid on the block
The other corner is taken by the high-level interpreted general-purpose object-oriented programming language called Python. Its origins go back to 1991, so it’s actually older than its adversary. The main feature is its emphasis on code readability. Its syntax is one of the simplest in existence, allowing an easy entrance for new blood and exceptional compatibility with machine learning, deep learning and Big Data analysis.
In the last few years, the sheer number of developers using Python and people willing to learn has grown exponentially. However, it is not even close to Java’s former glory. Furthermore, its easy syntax has the tendency to be a double-edged sword, as the transition to more complex programming languages, is quite difficult for newbies. It is also a fact that, due to its interpreter, Python is still slower than its rival. And that just adds salt to the wound.
So, what’s the choice?
It all depends on what you intend to do. Java requires more lines of code to satisfy its statistical and analytical nature. Python allows you to do things quickly and easily. Depending on the depth of the application you want to create and the actions you want it to perform in the background, each one has its usage. As it usually happens when there is a debate on such issues, probably it would be best not to limit yourself to learning only one of them.