Python is an interpreted, general-purpose, and high-level language which basically offers code re-usability. It is most probably used by professional developers and programmers for building amazing, websites, web apps, and back-end for mobile applications. It is one developer’s favorite because Python development is versatile and easy to use. It is one of the most dynamically growing languages and is used by popular platforms like Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Instagram, Uber, and Spotify. But, every coin has two sides, if you are looking to pick Python to develop your next project with, you must also be aware of its drawbacks. It is better to make an educated decision before jumping into it like a novice.
Pros of Python Programming Language
High-level Language
High-level programming language is considered to be better understandable and clearly readable. The variable name and syntax are very meaningful and don’t need any higher understanding of the operating system. Python is a highly clear and legible programming language and also uses machine learning instructions.
Supports Object Oriented Programming
Python offers extended support for methods, inheritance, classes, and encapsulation. Python does not necessarily enforce any OOP model and design principles. Everything is optional with this language. Python developers are at liberty to use the programming language in a procedural or imperative mode for small programs and use cases. This programming language is not a proper functional programming language yet has some basic features from the functional programming paradigm.
Platform Independent
Systems developed with Python are independent and can be ported to any other platform. Python virtual machine is the only thing that is platform-specific. It will convert the Python code into any valid machine code for whichever platform you choose and want to run your app on.
Dynamically-Typed
There is no need for the variables to be assigned a specific type like “Integer” when they are primarily used. Python decides the variable type at runtime. Python programming language makes use of a technique known as “duck typing” It will give a type to the variable based on the value and the way it is used. Python development will allow a variable to make any modifications dynamically at the time of the program.
Open-source
Python programming language has an open license and any Python developer can use and distribute it for free. It allows downloading any source code and also modifies it according to your project requirements. It allows the freedom to distribute your version of code in the existing source code. This feature is really helpful when you want to reuse the code, save development time, and build an innovative app at the same time. You can change the behavior of the existing code and use the older version of the code to develop your newer application.
Multiple Libraries
Python is equipped with a standard library that is vast and contains all the necessary functions needed to complete multiple tasks. This will make Python self-sufficient without needing any support from external libraries. However, if you still wish to use external libraries, Python definitely allows importing external libraries and using them for project completion.
Cons of Python Programming Language
No Multi-thread Support
One of the drawbacks of using this programming language is that it does not support multithreading. The architecture of Python is such that it uses multi-processing where each thread works in a separate Python process. Thus it depends on the oversight of the operating system to schedule and balance out the processes. And it might affect the overall result of the project.
Runtime Errors
Python is dynamically typed and hence cannot be compiled until the runtime. This results in several errors which can be caught by the compiler and do not appear until the program actually runs. This can include very basic things such as syntax errors or trying to add an integer or a string together.
Slow
Compared to other languages like Java or C, Python is very slow. Python is dynamically-types and interpreted which increases the work of run-time compiler. It needs to validate the type of each variable continuously. Hence, Python is not a good fit for a project where speedy deployment is a must.
High Memory Consumption
Python developers have a simplicity to offer but it has its downside as well. Python consumes a massive amount of memory. This is a huge hurdle when you are developing an application where memory optimization plays a vital role.
Wrapping Up
Now, you are familiar with both sides of Python development. Now, depending on the type of your project, make a wise choice whether it is a good fit or you should switch to some other programming language.
