Although they’ve been around since the mid-1990s, Ruby and Python are still excellent programming languages for web development today. They have more differences than similarities, but that also makes them a great duo to compare against one another.
What is Ruby?
In 1995, Ruby’s creator, Yukihiro Matsumoto, released this programming language to the public. It’s an open-source language which means it’s free to use as well. Ruby is known for its simple syntax and effectiveness. Benefits of using this programming language include:
- Implements less code
- Adapts and evolves quickly
- Uses sectional task executions for development
- Contains an easy to use testing framework
What is Python?
Released in the early 1990s, this interpretation-based, object-oriented programming language quickly made a name for itself. Python uses dynamic typing and binding. It has a simplistic, readable syntax, which is cost-effective as well. Additionally, debugging is one of Python’s most praised features. The debug speed is quick and if code contains an error, it won’t be a significant issue for the system. Some benefits are:
- Extremely easy to learn and develop with
- Very flexible in its development capabilities
- Utilizes asynchronous coding
- Faster development due to server-side scripting
Comparing Them—Ruby vs Python
- Language Difficulty
Ruby is easier to code with, but Python provides a more visual and direct experience for the developer.
- Flexibility
Python maintains a more focused approach with a more rigid but readable code. Alternatively, Ruby allows for multiple task options yet, out of the two, Python is still more popular.
- Code Reusability
Both programming languages have excellent code reusability. In Ruby, they are referred to as ‘gems’ while Python calls them ‘modules’.
- Testing Capabilities
Testing allows developers to identify issues early on, which can be crucial for development that is more complex. Luckily, both Python and Ruby have good testing capabilities.
- Ease of Learning
Created specifically to be easier to learn, Python pulls ahead of Ruby in this area. Still, while Ruby has a steeper learning curve, it compensates for that with its sub-function, Rails, and its accompanying features.
Similarities
These two programming languages do have a few similarities such as being of high quality and cross-platform compatible. Ruby and Python can also work with IRB, incorporates the GNU Debugger and embedded tools, and are backed by Emacs modes. Their readability is on similar levels as well. Additionally, they are scripting languages and dynamically-typed.
Which One to Choose?
Side by side, they appear much more similar than they are. By weighing their individual pros and cons as a whole, the better option is Python. Its versatility in coding, scalability, and clear syntax puts it ahead of Ruby in many ways. Being cross-platform compatible on top of being able to handle both simple and very complex amounts of data adds to that. Its lower learning curve is another benefit compared to Ruby since even beginning programmers can pick up on how to use it. Make no mistake, Ruby is still an excellent language for development but, when up against Python, it just falls short.