
A programming language is a fundamental component of coding and software design. It’s an essential tool in a computer programmers’ arsenal and vital to almost all programming activities.
Choosing between various computer programming languages can be difficult and highly perplexing, mainly since they all serve a specific purpose.
Though all programming languages are unique and good at what they do, the most widely used and popular languages are Python and Java.
These two languages have a history of battling each other for relevance, with Java securing the top rank and Python making incredible progress over the past two to three years.
Additionally, both are general-purpose, high-level, widely used computer programming languages.
Presently, most developers use Java to develop desktop and web applications. On the other hand, Python is often utilized to create data science and machine learning apps.
But when it comes to choosing between the two, there is no definite answer. Both are useful both are necessary for certain types of programming.
However, this doesn’t mean the two share the same features. In fact, there are several key differences between them, including how much you can earn with either.
So, should you learn Java or Python first? Which computer language pays more in the US? If you want to know the answers, read our Java vs. Python head-to-head comparison:
Java
Similar to C++, Java is also an object-oriented computer programming language. However, its simplified and advanced features distinguish it from many other languages. In addition to that, it’s free and easily accessible.
Moreover, Java is a class-based, concurrent, independent language and is best-suited to create the following kinds of applications:
- Embedded Systems
- Enterprise Solutions
- Middleware Applications
- Desktop Application
Python

Python is an object-oriented, high-level computer programming language. It minimizes the process of coding, which reduces product maintenance costs.
Many programmers use Python to create these kinds of applications:
- Machine Learning Apps
- Language Development
- Operating System
- Games
- Image Processing
- Prototyping
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Differences Between Python And Java

Though both computer languages lead the language race, some technical analogies will explain how they differ.
Here are some parameters to contemplate for the difference between Python and Java:
Popularity
Both Python and Java languages are constantly struggling to secure the top spot. However, after the advent of JavaScript – another computer programming language – the race has become more competitive.
According to the 2018 survey of Stackoverflow, Python topped the programming language charts and became the fastest-growing language, surpassing C++.
Moreover, Java came out as the most popular computer language, according to numerous developers. Nevertheless, in terms of popularity, the two languages had a negligible gap.
Syntax
Here’s a fact: Python is one of the most dynamic computer languages in the world. For example, while typing, developers don’t need to enter the variables.
This makes it quite an easy computer language compared to others.
In addition to that, Python doesn’t follow enclosing braces or indentation rules, making it more convenient for programmers to use. All in all, this language is simple to read and beginner-friendly.
On the other hand, Java is directly opposite to Python; it has incredibly rigid syntax rules. To put it simply, you must enter all variables, and if you mess up even slightly, the software won’t run.
Moreover, programmers must place the lines within the curly brackets to explain a method or block with several lines.
On the contrary, Python provides indentation for defining methods or blocks with several lines.
Performance
Both Python and Java are operated by accumulating the byte-code and are run on ‘virtual machines.’ Thus, it makes both computer languages cross-platform, with no differences in the operating system.
You may think the two have similar performances; however, this isn’t true. In fact, there’s a fundamental difference between Python and Java.
Java is a statically-typed language. And with this type of syntactic structure, compiling is relatively simple and quicker than the dynamic-typed language. As a result, it’s less likely to make errors and aim platforms for better.
Additionally, this computer language has a ‘Just in time’ compiler, which organizes the byte-code in a native machine.
It is due to this that the accumulated code may be called instantly. This operation primarily enhances the efficiency and speed of Java. But, Java codes can be extremely long and may get hard to understand.
However, for Python, codes are processed during compilation, and variables are also considered. So coding typed in the dynamic-type syntactic isn’t as readable or agile to meet every platform.
As Python is typically examined during run-time, problems with the software can put the entire app on hold. These variables made the language less efficient and reduced its speed.
Sometimes, differences between Python and Java can be discernable. For example, a simple ‘binary-tree test’ can work ten times quicker in Java than Python.
Java Vs. Python: Apps/Uses In Different Fields
Machine Learning
Since Python is relatively more straightforward syntactically, computer programmers from diverse backdrops found it an easy choice.
For example, with the help of Python, programmers can test machine learning (ML) and utilize it in different fields.
Many organizations adopted ML thanks to Python. Not just that, but a vast majority of development in ML and Artificial /intelligence (AI) is done because of Python.
Some libraries for Python include:
- Keras
- Facebook’s PyTorch
- Sickit-Learn
- TensorFlow
Overall, it’s arguably the most prevalent computer language in this field. Meanwhile, similar to Python, Java can also be a good choice for machine learning.
With characteristics like, for example, easy to use and debug, it’s utilized for enterprise-level programs and large-scale operations.
Some of the libraries programmers can employ for Java include:
- Mallet
- MOA
- DeepLearining4
- Weka
Game Development
C# and C++ are unquestionably the leaders in game development. But, unfortunately, both Python and Java can’t compete against them when it comes to developing PC games.
In addition, both C# and C++ have provided a consistent user experience (UX) to gamers.
Now, Python or Java aren’t particularly slow; still, they can’t offer the same experience C# and C++ have been providing for years.
Nevertheless, it’s also wrong to exclude Python entirely in terms of game development. Python is a prevalent choice for many developers for numerous software programs and is becoming useable for game developers.
Web Development
Both Python and Java are employed in the back-end web development, a branch of web development focused on making software programs that will operate on servers.
As per Stackoverflow’s survey, it’s the most well-known development field.
Writing your back-end technology afresh is complex and extremely difficult since you won’t be able to cover every design requirement. The boxes you need to cover are:
- Reliability
- Security
- Effectiveness
That’s why programmers have built frameworks that are abstractions in programs that allow you to make your back-end tech without even re-inventing the wheel.
For Python, the two most well-known frameworks are Flask and Django. However, Flask is more like a micro framework, providing fundamental functionalities such as routing requests.
In contrast, Django is a more highlighted option primarily because it can assist you in building a robust back-end while utilizing security and efficiency.
Moreover, Django is armed with a strong ORM layer that facilitates dealing with databases and performing various functions.
Conversely, Spring is the most well-known back-end framework for Java, with a vast ecosystem and community near it.
Many enterprises such as Dell, Orange, and GE use Spring. Although it isn’t as popular as Django, it’s still a powerful choice for making enterprise-level apps.
Benefits Of Learning Java
Java has so many advantages over other computer programming languages. Here are a few benefits of learning Java:
- Java is one of the most popular computer languages globally. This means if you become a Java expert, it will benefit from a wealth of potential career opportunities
- It can be utilized to make all types of software. Java can help create anything from a website, search engine, and desktop app to enterprise applications
- It’s a safe platform mainly because it employs virtual machine
- If you’re well-versed in Java, you can effortlessly learn and understand Android
Benefits Of Learning Python
Do you want to earn a high income and secure a guaranteed position at one of the top tech organizations? If so, you should learn Python!
Here are a few key benefits of learning Python:
- Python is comparatively a more lucrative computer programming language
- It’s used in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML)
- Compared to several other programming languages, Python is way easier to learn
- It is an integral part of data science programming
- This programming language is versatile when it comes to functionality
- The demand for Python is increasing at a rapid pace in the employment market
- It makes amazing graphics
Consider enrolling in coding classes online to gain valuable programming skills, enhance your problem-solving abilities, and open up new career opportunities in the tech industry. These flexible courses allow you to learn at your own pace and from the comfort of your home.
Which Pays More? Java Or Python?
Both Python and Java offer a handsome pay scale. They’re both in the top ten highest-paid programming skills in the US. But which computer language between the two pays more in the US?
Java is one of the most profitable and popular programming languages. The average pay scale for a Java programmer in the United States is approximately $80,000 per year, as per Glassdoor.
However, qualified applicants can pull in about $117,000 a year if they’re working at a renowned organization.
On the other hand, Python offers some lucrative career options. As a result, over the years, it has witnessed a sudden rise in demand.
And now, most programmers are scrambling to learn Python. And this has also become easier because there are many resources to choose from.
The average salary of a Python programmer is about $100,000 per year. However, some well-known organizations can offer you up to $118,000 or more per year easily.
This clearly shows Python takes a slight edge over Java in terms of pay scale!
Become Fluent With Either Language Through An Expert
After reading this, you will realize that even if there is a difference in pay scale, it is negligible in the broader scheme of things.
The more pressing matter is becoming adept at using either of the languages or finding out which one to learn first. How does one do that, mainly if they have limited time?
The answer is easy, hire a computer science tutor from Superprof! Superprof is a platform that connects students and teachers from all over the world.
Sign up today, make an account, and find a Java or Python tutor in your area!