Difference Between Python and C++

Key Difference Between Python and C++

  • Python code runs through an interpreter, while C++ code is pre-compiled
  • Python supports Garbage collection, whereas C++ does not support Garbage collection
  • Python is slower; on the other hand, C++ is faster than Python
  • In Python, Rapid prototyping is possible because of the small size of the code, while in C++, Rapid prototyping is not possible because of the larger code size
  • Python is an easy-to-learn language, whereas C++ has a stiff learning curve as it has lots of predefined syntaxes and structure

Difference Between Python and C++
Difference Between Python and C++

Here, I have analyzed the difference between Python and C++ and will comprehensively evaluate their pros and cons.

What is C++?

C++ is widely used in general-purpose programming languages. The language allows you to encapsulate high and low-level language features. So, it is seen as an intermediate-level language. It is also used to develop complex systems where hardware-level coding is required.

c++

Example of C++ Program

#include<iostream>    
using namespace std;    

int main()    
{    
    cout<<"Hello World"<<endl;    
    return 0;    
}    

What is Python?

Python is a high-level object-oriented programming language. It has built-in data structures combined with dynamic binding and typing, which makes it an ideal choice for rapid application development. Python also offers support for modules and packages, which allows system modularity and code reuse.

It is one of the fastest programming languages, as it requires very few lines of code. Its emphasis is on readability and simplicity, which make it a great choice for beginners.

python logo

Example of Python Program

print("Hello World")  

Why Python?

Let me share the significant reasons I use Python language.

  • Very simple syntax compared to Java, C, and C++ languages.
  • It is used for Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and the general overarching AI field.
  • Very useful in data analysis and visualization.
  • Extensive library and handy tools for developers/programmers.
  • Python is cross-compatible
  • Python has its auto-installed shell
  • Compared with the code of other languages, Python code is easy to write and debug. Therefore, its source code is relatively easy to maintain.
  • Python is a portable language, so it can run on a wide variety of operating systems and platforms.
  • Python comes with many prebuilt libraries, which makes your development task easy.
  • Python helps you make complex programming simpler. It internally deals with memory addresses and garbage collection.
  • Python provides an interactive shell that helps you test things before their actual implementation.
  • Python offers database interfaces to all major commercial DBMS systems.
  • Supports imperative and functional programming
  • Python is famous for its use in IoT.

Why C++?

Here, I will share the reasons I use C++.

  • C++ is a multi-paradigm means it follows three paradigms: Generic, Imperative, and Object-Oriented.
  • C++ provides performance and memory efficiency.
  • It provides high-level abstraction.
  • C++ is compatible with C.
  • The language allows the reusability of code.

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Google Trends Python vs C++
Google Trends Python vs C++

Features of C++

From what I have seen, here are the important features of C++.

  • The program should be simple, object-oriented, and easy to understand
  • Development should be conducted in a robust and secure environment.
  • The code should follow the specific architecture and must be portable.
  • Code should be easily “interpreted and dynamic”

Features of Python

In my experience, here are the key features of Python:

  • Easy to learn, read, and maintain
  • It can run on various hardware platforms using the same interface.
  • You can include low-level modules in the Python interpreter.
  • Python offers an ideal structure and supports large programs.
  • Python offers support for automatic garbage collection.
  • It supports an interactive mode of testing and debugging.
  • It offers high-level dynamic data types and also supports dynamic type checking.
  • Python language can be integrated with Java, C, and C++ programming code.

Applications of C++

In my experience, these are important applications of C++:

  • C++ is used to develop all kinds of embedded systems like smartwatches, multimedia systems in automobiles, loT devices, etc.
  • C++ also allows you to develop servers and high-performance microcontroller programs
  • Game development is the key to C++. That’s why C++ is becoming more popular among game developers.

Applications of Python

As I have observed, here are some important applications of Python.

  • Python is widely used in machine learning.
  • The language allows you to manage a huge amount of data in an easy and cost-effective way.
  • Data analysts use Python to analyze the data and statistical information.
  • It is also useful for big data technologies. In fact, most of the significant data functions can be performed using Python programming.
  • Web developers use the Python language for developing complex web applications; that’s because Python offers the Django framework, which helps you create entire sites using Python.

Python vs. C++: Differences Between Python and C++

Here, let me share the major differences between Python and C++.

C++ vs Python
C++ vs Python

Python C++
Supports Garbage Collection Does not support Garbage Collection
Python programs are easier to write It is not easy in contrast to Python because of its complex syntax.
Run through interpreter C++ is pre-compiled
Rapid Prototyping is possible because of the small size of the code. Rapid Prototyping is not possible because of the larger code size.
Python is difficult to install on a Windows box Not have an issue while installing in the Windows system.
Python is closer to the plain English language. Therefore, it is easy to learn a language. C++ has a stiff learning curve as it has lots of predefined syntaxes and structures.
Python is slower. C++ is faster than Python
Python has more English-like syntax, so readability is very high. C++ code readability is weak when compared with Python code.
In Python, variables are accessible outside the loop. The scope of the C++ variables is limited within the loops.
Famous companies using  Python are Google, Lyft, Twitch, and Telegram. Famous companies using C++ are Uber Technologies, Netflix, Spotify, and Instagram.
TIOBE rating is 3 TIOBE rating is 4
The average salary for a Python developer is $120,359 per year in the United States of America. The average salary for a C++ developer is $108,809 per year in the United States.

How to Choose Between Python and C++

From my perspective, choosing between Python and C++ really depends on the project requirements. Python is preferable for beginners and for scenarios that require speedy development, while C++ is optimal for performance-critical applications.