When it comes to choosing a coding language, programmers evaluate diverse features to ascertain suitability based on the desired outcomes. As a student, you should similarly understand the differences between coding languages to ensure you pursue a course that aligns with your aspirations and long-term career goals. If you aspire to be a web developer, perhaps you might find yourself wondering whether php or python is the best programming language to learn. Most programmers have voiced their opinions on the php vs python discussion that continues to persist. In this article, we will critically analyze both programming languages, to help you decide on the most suitable coding language for you.
Understanding Python programming language
The first question you should ask yourself before enrolling in a Python web design course is What is Python? Python is one of the high-level object-oriented programming languages that are popular among developers. It is used in the development of vast applications, including machine learning, web development, and artificial intelligence. The language’s popularity has increased significantly due to its unique qualities such as simplicity and readability.
Key Features
Here are some of the Python features that make the language convenient and preferred by some programmers.
Syntax: Python has an extremely simple syntax compared to other programming languages, making it easy to learn and master. It is almost similar to the language we speak. For instance, if you want an output of the words “My First Webpage,” you will need to type print( “My First Webpage”). In other languages, it is more complicated and you may need to type several lines.
Easy to learn: The language is not so complex and therefore doesn’t have a steep learning curve. You could easily grasp the concepts and gain the requisite skills to use the language with ease compared to other languages.
Type of language: Python is a general-purpose programming language that coders can use for diverse programs and applications. For instance, you could use it for web development, build an application, script algorithms, etc.
Maintenance: Maintaining a Python program or website is relatively less complex compared to other programming languages such as PHP.
Free and open source: Another significant feature is that Python is free and open source, which means it is freely available. And can be accessed from its official site. Understanding PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor) programming language
What is PHP?
PHP is one of the most popular server-side scripting languages used by developers. Mostly, in web development, coding experts use PHP to create and maintain dynamic websites. It is also one of the most preferred languages for dynamic web applications.
Among the most significant php features is its ability to integrate with diverse servers across the available operating systems. Learners pursuing PHP affirm it’s easy to master, making programming interesting.
If you work under tight schedules and are worried about who will “do my PHP homework,” to create adequate time for practicing, don’t worry. There are numerous online PHP reputable homework helpers to support you master the concepts and become a competent PHP programmer.
Key PHP Features
Performance: Since PHP utilizes its own memory, the execution of a script written in it is much faster compared to other popular scripting languages.
Free and open source: The scripting language is free and open source. This means that you can develop a script based on your needs without incurring any charges.
Syntax: The syntax is easy and therefore you will comfortably learn and master crucial concepts. Most programmers say they are extremely comfortable working with PHP compared to other scripting languages.
Database support: Being a server-side scripting language, it is vital to understand how well it works with databases. Well, PHP is a great language that supports all the leading databases, including MySQL among others.
Control: Unlike other scripting languages that require long codes, PHP is more straightforward and a few lines are enough to do the job.
The key differences between Python and PHP From our critical analysis of PHP vs Python web development, some striking differences make each language unique as discussed below.
1. Python is used by programmers in creating complex applications since it is a high-level object-oriented language while PHP is a Hypertext preprocessor preferred in developing dynamic websites and applications
2. Python is popular and the language of choice for coders in fields such as AI, Machine Learning, and Data Science while PHP is popular and the language of choice for programmers specializing in web development.
3. Python has a relatively low number of frameworks compared to PHP which has numerous of them.
4. In web development, Python syntax is far easier than that of PHP. The naming convention and syntax for PHP is so broad, making it challenging for developers, especially beginners.
Key Takeaways
If you have to select the language to pursue given Python and PHP as the competing candidates, you should first determine what your end goal is. If you envision a career in the data science field, AI, or even Machine learning, then it would be advisable to learn Python. The language has unique features that make it one of the leading object-oriented programming languages for rapid application development.
However, if you desire to become a web and web application developer, then pursuing PHP as your first coding language is highly advisable. Besides, basing your decision on what you want to be, it would be advisable to start your programming journey by learning Python, since it is easy to understand and its syntax is not complex for beginners. Additionally, it doesn’t have a steep learning curve.
Summing up
Since both Python and PHP have unique features, it is upon you to choose the most suitable language to pursue. You should be sure about the goals you want to accomplish after acquiring the new skills. Each of the two languages is popular in different fields. Therefore, it is your responsibility to explore and determine which suits your field.
