Python vs Ruby
When choosing a programming language for web development or general programming tasks, Python and Ruby are two popular and powerful options that often come into consideration. Both languages offer unique features and strengths, but they cater to different programming philosophies and use cases. Python is knowned for its readability and versatility, making it a favorite for a wide range of applications from web development to data science. Ruby, on the other hand, is celebrated for its elegant syntax and strong focus on developer happiness, particularly through the Ruby on Rails framework. This introduction will explore the key similarities and differences between Python and Ruby, helping you understand which language might best fit your needs and preferences.
What is Ruby?
Ruby is a dynamic, open-source, object-oriented, and reflective programming language. Ruby is considered similar to Perl and Smalltalk programming languages. It runs on all types of platforms like Windows, Mac OS, and all versions of UNIX.
Ruby is a pure Object-Oriented language developed by Yukihiro Matsumoto (also known as Matz in the Ruby community) in the mid 1990’s in Japan. Everything in Ruby is an object except the blocks but there are replacements too for it i.e procs and lambda. The objective of Ruby’s development was to make it act as a sensible buffer between human programmers and the underlying computing machinery.
Advantages of Ruby:
- The code written in Ruby is small, elegant, and powerful as it has fewer number of lines of code.
- Ruby allows simple and fast creation of Web applications which results in less hard work.
- As Ruby is free of charge that is Ruby is free to copy, use, and modify, it allows programmers to make necessary changes as and when required.
- Ruby is a dynamic programming language due to which there is no tough rules on how to built in features and it is very close to spoken languages.
What is Python?
Python is a simple, easy-to-learn, powerful, high level and object-oriented programming language. It is an interpreted scripting language also. Guido Van Rossum is known as the founder of Python programming.
It is a Programming language having properties like it is interpreted, object-oriented and it is high-level too. Due to its beginner-friendly syntax, it became a clear choice for beginners to start their programming journey. The major focus behind creating it is making it easier for developers to read and understand, also reducing the lines of code.
Features of Python
Python has plenty of features that make it the most demanding and popular. Let’s read about a few of the best features that Python has:
- Easy to read and understand
- Interpreted language
- Object-oriented programming language
- Free and open-source
- Versatile and Extensible
- Multi-platform
- Hundreds of libraries and frameworks
- Flexible, supports GUI
- Dynamically typed
- Huge and active community
Similarities Between Python and Ruby
- They both are high-level languages.
- They both are server-side scripting languages.
- Both are used for web applications.
- Both work on multiple platforms.
- Both have clean syntax and are easily readable.
- Both use an interactive prompt called IRB.
- Objects are strongly and dynamically typed.
- Both use embedded doc tools.
- A GNU Debugger(gdb) style is available for each language.
- Both languages are supported by Emacs modes.
Python vs Ruby
Here are the following difference between Python and Ruby:
Terms | Python | Ruby |
---|---|---|
Definition | Python is a high level programming language. | Ruby is a general purpose programming language. |
Object Oriented | Not fully object oriented programming language. | Fully object oriented programming language. |
Developing Environment | multiple IDEs are supported. | EclipseIDE is supported. |
Mixins | Mixins can’t be used. | Mixins are used. |
Web frameworks | Django | Ruby on Rails |
Libraries | Has larger range of libraries. | It has smaller library than Python. |
elseif | elif | elseif |
Developers | Created 1991 by Guido Van Rossum. | Created 1995 by Yukihiro “Matz” Matsumoto. |
Unset a variable | It will be present in the symbol table as long as it is in scope. | Once a variable is set you can’t unset it back. |
Anonymous functions | Support only lambdas. | Support blocks, procs and lambdas. |
lambda functions | It support only single line lambda function. | Its lambda functions are larger. |
Functions | It has functions. | It Doesn’t have functions. |
Community | Focused in academia and Linux. | Mainly focused on web. |
switch/case statement | It doesn’t support switch/case statement. | It support switch/case statement. |
yield keyword | It returns execution to the scope outside the function’s invocation. External code is responsible for resuming the function. | It will execute another function that has been passed as the final argument, then immediately resume. |
Built-in classes | Built-in classes can’t be modified | Built-in classes can be modified |
Inheritance | Support multiple inheritance. | Support single inheritance. |
Tuples | It support tuples. | It doesn’t support tuples. |
Usage | Google, Dropbox, Instagram, Mozilla, Yahoo, Venom, You Tubes | Apple, GitHub, Twitter, Hulu, ZenDesk, Urban Dictionary |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Python and Ruby each offer powerful tools for web development through their respective frameworks, Django and Ruby on Rails. Python, with its versatile language and robust Django framework, provides a solid foundation for scalable and secure applications. Ruby, with its elegant syntax and Rails framework, emphasizes developer productivity and rapid development. The choice between Python and Ruby largely depends on your project needs, personal preference, and the specific advantages each language and framework offer.
FAQs
Which came first, Ruby or Python?
Python was created first, with its initial release in 1991, while Ruby was developed later, with its first release in 1995. Python’s design focused on simplicity and readability, whereas Ruby emphasized flexibility and developer happiness.
Should I still learn Ruby?
Yes, learning Ruby can still be valuable, especially if you plan to work with Ruby on Rails, which remains a popular and powerful framework for web development. Additionally, Ruby’s elegant syntax and strong community can provide a rewarding programming experience.
Is Ruby a dead language?
No, Ruby is not a dead language; it remains actively used and supported, especially within the Ruby on Rails community. It continues to be a popular choice for web development and has a vibrant ecosystem.
Are Ruby developers in demand?
Yes, Ruby developers are still in demand, particularly for roles involving Ruby on Rails, which remains a popular framework for web development. While demand may vary by region, skilled Ruby developers continue to find opportunities in various tech sectors.
Can I learn Ruby in one day?
Learning Ruby in one day is unlikely to provide a deep understanding, but you can grasp the basics and start writing simple programs. Mastery of Ruby, including its advanced features and best practices, will take more time and practice.