Python and C++ both are the most popular and general-purpose programming languages. They both support Object-Oriented Programming (OPP) yet they are a lot different from one another. In this article, we will discuss how Python is different from C++.
What is Python?
Python is a high-level, interpreted programming language. It was invented back in 1991, by Guido Van Rossum. Python is an object-oriented programming language that has enormous library support making the implementation of various programs and algorithms easy. Its language constructs and object-oriented approach aim to help programmers to write clear, logical code for various projects.
What is C++?
C++ is a high-level, general-purpose programming language created by Bjarne Stroustrup in 1979 as an extension of the C programming language, or “C with Classes”. The language has expanded significantly over time, and modern C++ has object-oriented, generic, and functional features in addition to facilities for low-level memory manipulation. Many of the technologies as libraries in Python have underlying C++ code.
Difference Between C++ vs Python
The following table shows the key difference between Python and C++ programming languages.
Parameters | Python | C++ |
|---|
Code | Python has fewer lines of code | C++ tends to have long lines of code |
Syntax | It uses short-hand syntax and has numerous short-hand structural iterators. It requires ‘self’ as a parameter to any class instance method. Some of the short-hand syntaxes are confusing (e.g. `rkwargs`) but rarely is anything in Python completely esoteric. | It has a stiff learning curve as it has lots of predefined syntaxes and structures. C++ uses implicitly ‘this’ to refer to class instances. Some syntax in C++ is extremely esoteric. |
Compilation | Python is interpreted | C++ is precompiled |
Speed | It is slower since it uses an interpreter and also determines the data type at run time | It is faster once compiled as compared to python |
Efficiency | Specialized formatting not common in other languages, script-like language, OOP features, code reuse through libraries | C-like syntax, powerful OOP features and operator overloading, best compile-time optimizer |
Nature | It is dynamically typed. | is statically typed |
Functions | Python Functions do not have restrictions on the type of the argument and the type of its return value | In C++, the function can accept and return the type of value which is already defined |
Scope of Variable | Variables are accessible even outside the loop | The scope of variables is limited within the loops |
Extension | Python programs are saved with the .py extension | C++ programs are saved with the .cpp extension |
Popularity | It has huge community support. When it comes to popularity, beginner and novice programmers tend to turn to Python | It also has dedicated followings online. But only the people who have some experience in the field show a lot of interest in C++ |
Garbage Collection | It supports garbage collection | It doesn’t support garbage collection, but it can be implemented |
Rapid Prototyping | Rapid Prototyping is possible, with easy project setup, live interpreter | Rapid Prototyping is possible, but project setup can be complicated, live interpreter through IRC bot |
| Application Domain | Web development, data analysis, scientific computations, etc | Game development, embedded systems, etc |
| Variable Declaration | Variables are declared by simply writing their name with their datatype | While declaring a variable it is necessary to mention its datatype |
| Installation on Windows | Difficult to install on Windows | Easy to install on Windows |
Conclusion
Python leads to one conclusion: Python is better for beginners in terms of its easy-to-read code and simple syntax. Additionally, Python is a good option for web development (backend), while C++ is not very popular in web development of any kind.
Python is also a leading language for data analysis and machine learning. While it is possible to use C++ for machine learning purposes as well, it is not a good option. In terms of simplicity, Python is much easier to use and has a great support system when it comes to AI and ML frameworks.
Last Updated : 14 Jul, 2023
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FAQs
For example, C++ is often used in embedded systems, game development, 3D or visual design programs, as well as for building operating systems or web browsers and portals. On the other hand, Python is a scripting language that is ideal for machine learning contexts, data analysis, and backend web development.
Is it better to use Python or C++? ›
C++ duel lacks a clear winner, as the better choice depends on individual preferences and project requirements. Python excels in quick learning and the rapid development of small programs. In contrast, C++ is suitable for large projects and exploring multiple languages, although it requires more time to master.
What is the difference between Python and C with examples? ›
Key differences between C and Python
Syntax: C has a more rigid syntax compared to Python's relatively relaxed syntax. Typing: C is statically typed, meaning that variables must be declared with a specific data type, while Python is dynamically typed, allowing for more flexibility in how variables are used.
What is the difference between C++ and PY? ›
The main difference between C and C++ is that C is a procedural programming language that does not support classes and objects. On the other hand, C++ is an extension of C programming with object-oriented programming (OOP) support. Is C and C++ a compiled or interpreted language? C and C++ are both compiled languages.
Why do people prefer C++ over Python? ›
Speed: As a compiler-based language, C++ is faster than Python. The same code running in both programs simultaneously will generate in C++ first.
Why would you use C++ over Python? ›
C++ is faster than Python because it is statically typed, which leads to a faster compilation of code. Python is slower than C++, it supports dynamic typing, and it also uses the interpreter, which makes the process of compilation slower.
Can C++ do everything Python can? ›
C++ is commonly used in embedded systems, 3D and visual design programs, game development and building operating systems or web browsers and portals. Python is a scripting language that is better being used in machine learning contexts, data analysis and backend web development.
Which pays more Python or C++? ›
C++ offers fewer job opportunities but higher salaries. Python offers more job opportunities but lower salaries as compared to C++.
What should I learn first Python or C++? ›
Python - if you want to get stuff done quickly and easily, 2.) C - if you want to learn programming from bottom up even if it takes longer until you produce something nice. C++ is a huge thing that has low level tools AND high level tools and a lot of different ways to write a single thing.
What can C do that Python Cannot? ›
Python does not support pointers. C uses pointers. Python comes with built-in memory management features that remove variables from memory when they are no longer used. C does not have built-in memory management, and the developer must manage memory manually.
C is a less robust programming language compared to Python. Python is a more robust programming language compared to C as it has strong memory management schemes. The C programming language is mostly used for the development of hardware applications. The number of built-in functions in C are very limited.
Why use C instead of Python? ›
Because C code is compiled into machine code, it is efficient and fast to execute. As a result, C is an excellent choice for applications in which every CPU cycle and byte of memory counts. Python Performance: Python is an interpreted language, hence it is usually slower than C.
Can I learn Python and C++ at the same time? ›
No, Always learn and master one programming language and then Choose other. If you learn two different languages same time your written programme will fail due to the incomplete knowledge of programming. I suggest you to learn python first then c++.
Why is Python slower than C++? ›
Python's interpreted nature, less efficient memory management, lack of runtime optimizations, and dynamic type system collectively contribute to its slower execution speed.
What are the features of Python over C++? ›
Let's summarize the above differences in a tabular form.
| C++ | Python |
|---|
| It is a statically typed programming language. | It is a dynamically typed programming language. |
| Variable is declared by mentioning the type of the variable. | It does not require the declaration of a variable. |
11 more rowsYes, learning Python before delving into other languages like C++ or Java can be a beneficial and strategic approach, especially for beginners or those new to programming.
