The Key Distinctions Between JavaScript vs Python

Do you ever think how much technology has taken over our world that we cannot imagine our lives without it? Behind all this, there is a complete world of computers, programming languages, coding, etc.

We spend most of our lives on computers and mobile phones. Watching screens running our commands is not as simple as it seems. The programming languages are not new in technology, but these entities play a critical and tremendous role.

Python and JavaScript are the two popular computer programming languages with varying characteristics. If you are interested in learning computer coding, you should keep reading numerous blogs related to technology from several online sources such as TechyWired.

However, before learning, you must have complete knowledge of JavaScript vs Python. In this article, we will provide you with insight into the knowledge of these two programming languages.

What Is Python?

Python is a general-purpose and object-oriented computer programming language. It is a high-level programming language that focuses on code readability; thus, it is easy to read and implement. If you are a beginner, you need to start learning coding from this basic programming language. It is a scripting language that supports multiple programming styles.

What Is JavaScript?

On the other hand, JavaScript is a computer programming language that works on the front and back end of the application. This programming language is utilized mainly for the client-end scripting and the server end. It is also an easy programming language to start learning with. It provides a strong testing workflow. 

JavaScript vs Python: Quick Comparison

Comparison in Detail

JavaScript vs Python has become a long debate. Many people, especially beginners, wonder what are the actual differences between the two languages and how these can be utilized in coding. If you are one who is keen to learn about their differences, then this article is for you. 

Hash Tables 

The hash tables are indexed structures used for multiple purposes like deletion of operations, search, and insertion. The Python programming language has built-in Hash tables, which are termed “dictionaries.” While JavaScript does not have a built-in hash table structure, it utilizes another way for functionality.  

Data Types 

The data is commonly divided into two categories: mutable and immutable. The mutable data type is capable of changing values when assigned or created; on the other hand, the immutable data type does not change the values. JavaScript does not have strong differentiation between the mutable and immutable data types, but Python supports both data types. For instance, the list comes under immutable data type, and the set is the mutable data type. 

Interesting Fact: JavaScript hijacking, also known as the CSRF attack, is a powerful attack in which the hacker reads and acquires sensitive information about a vulnerable website. The tag on the hacker’s website targets the victim’s site webpage and, in return, retrieves private information. 

Numeric Types

In JavaScript, there is the concept of float point numbers, while different numerical types are supported. The three supported numeric data types in Python include floating point numbers, integers, and complex. 

Number of Modules

Both programming languages contain modules, but Python has more modules than JavaScript. Further, Python also contains libraries for machine learning, scientific computing, and data analytics. JSON, math, and date are a few examples of JavaScript modules. 

Inheritance

The main difference between JavaScript vs Python inheritance lies in the type. JavaScript supports a prototype-based inheritance model, while Python supports a class-based inheritance model. JavaScript also differentiates in inheritance from Python because it can inherit from instances, but Python cannot. 

Syntax

Syntax in JavaScript is of the native type, which is not as easy to read as Python. On the other hand, Python uses a small and concise syntax which contributes to easy learning. 

Object Access

Accessing an object involves different methodologies in JavaScript and Python. Python uses the “self” keyword, while JavaScript uses the “this” method. That’s why the first argument of the Python programming language for accessing an object is always the self-argument. 

Code Blocks 

Code blocks help in coding, debugging, and running. In JavaScript, the code blocks are the curly braces, while indentation is the code block for Python programming language. Further, JavaScript utilizes the semi-colon, and Python utilizes newline. 

Interesting Fact: Python language uses a .pyc file storage format that works as a Python engine. Due to the presence of this engine, Python does not require a compiler for processing like other languages do. 

Implicit Data Conversion 

JavaScript is a weakly typed programming language that reflects implicit data conversions. However, Python is a strongly typed programming language emphasizing no implicit data conversion. Moreover, Python supports string and dynamic typing styles. Dynamic style is the one that can change the type depending on the task.

Applications of JavaScript

JavaScript and Python both have specific properties that allow us to use them for multiple applications. Following are applications of JavaScript:

• Server-side technology (for instance; Express.js, MongoDB, Node.js)
• Building secure applications
• Mobile app development 
• Front-end technology (for instance; jQuery, ReactJS)
• Dynamic SPAs (Single Page Applications)

Applications of Python

The list of applications of Python is huge. Below are the top popular ones:

• Machine Learning
• GUI Applications
• XML Processing
• AI-Language
• Scientific Applications 
• Ad Hoc Programming
• Database Applications 
• Prototyping Web Scripting

Pros and Cons of JavaScript

Here are the positive and negative points of JavaScript programming language, making it one of the most commonly used languages:

Pros and Cons of Python

Although Python is a strong programming language, it still has some limitations. We have provided you with the advantages and disadvantages to have the exact idea of both programming languages.

So, which programming language to choose: JavaScript vs Python? We are pretty sure; that now you all have known the distinguishing points between the two programming languages. Both programming languages have much significance in computer sciences and coding.  It depends on the requirement of the task; which programming language will be used. JavaScript is mainly a server-end scripting language, while Python is the client-end scripting language. 

Nonetheless, if you’re still under the circumstances of havoc and cannot make a decision on which language scopes better, let us suggest. Notably, Python wins the run. it is primarily the most common and renowned programming language that most people prefer to learn first because of its easy accessibility, user-friendliness, and efficiency. In addition, this programming language is extensively used by developers to build scalable web applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Python programming language take over or replace JavaScript?

No, it cannot be taken over or replaced by JavaScript. Both have their significance and properties. Python is a back-end (server-side) language, while JavaScript is a front-end (client-side) programming language. 

2. Which paradigms are supported by Python?

Python is a multi-paradigms language supporting the following:

• Functional programming
• Object-oriented programming
• Procedural programming
• Imperative programming 

3. JavaScript vs Python? Which language should I learn first?

Deciding the order for learning the programming languages can be best defined by the purpose of usage. If you are a beginner in coding, Python is easier to learn. Yet, if you want to learn a front-end programming language, then JavaScript is a better option.