Several new programming languages have been gaining popularity in recent years. Languages like Ruby, Kotlin, Python, Crystal, and Rust have all made their way into the hearts and minds of programmers across the world.
While Ruby and Python seem to be the most popular, Python is at the top of the list. Some programmers even prefer Python over JavaScript, despite JavaScript being the superior language.
Need convincing?
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- JavaScript is better for website development
Hands down, JavaScript is undeniably better than Python for website development for one simple reason: JS runs in the browser while Python is a backend server-side language.
While Python can be used in part to create a website, it can’t be used alone. Python must be used to respond to requests that return HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Additionally, using Python to build a website is a complicated process. Frameworks exist to make the task easier – like Django and Flask – but even so, using Python isn’t optimal.
JavaScript is the better choice for desktop and mobile websites. Between JQuery, Angular, and React, JavaScript provides virtually endless capabilities for web programming.
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- Experienced developers are more likely to know JavaScript
When a business or individual hires a programmer for a project, having an experienced developer is the key to a successful project. The problem with Python developers is that you never know how much real-world experience they have. The same can be said of JavaScript developers, however, it’s easier to find experienced JS developers because it’s been a standard for decades.
While Python was launched in 1989 – about six years before JavaScript – Python didn’t become popular until Google adopted it and invested in its further development. That means the majority of seasoned developers who got their start in the 1990s are likely to be experienced with JavaScript over Python.
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- JavaScript provides a direct path into the IT world
There will always be die-hard Python fans who can make a good argument for learning Python. However, if you want to get into the tech world, JavaScript is the golden ticket.
Since JavaScript is a necessary component of front-end website development, you’ll have the skills necessary to generate income either as a freelancer or on a team.
Browsing around job listing sites in search of programming jobs reveals a significant preference for JavaScript programmers. While some businesses may not know what programming language is best for their particular project, if they’re working on a front-end website project, they’ll need at least some JavaScript development.
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- JavaScript is easy to learn
Although many people say Python is easier to learn than JavaScript, that’s not true for people with a programming mindset. JS basics can be learned in just months, and with a year of dedication, a person can start earning decent money with their skills.
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- JavaScript is historically the most popular programming language
JavaScript has been popular since its first release in 1995, and that’s not going to change any time soon. Even today, Brendan Eich, JavaScript’s key designer, says that every web developer needs to know JavaScript, Java, and Python.
While Python is a good programming language to have under your belt, it’s not a standalone solution for web development. Python is a helpful addition to existing web programming languages, but can’t do much by itself.
It could be considered a logical fallacy to say JavaScript is better because it’s been popular for a long time, but programming languages remain popular for good reason. That reason is functionality, reliability, and ease of use. JavaScript fulfills all of those requirements.
Programming languages serve different purposes
Each time a new programming language is created, the goal is to improve on features like efficiency, debugging and memory management. Some of the older, foundational programming languages are useful but have some hefty drawbacks compared to new languages.
Regardless of whether you’re partial to JavaScript, Python, Ruby, or Rust, each serves a purpose. Some languages overlap in functionality while others are more robust and provide better debugging.
As a general rule, it’s good to learn the programming languages that are in high demand if you want a thriving programming career. That will require learning languages that aren’t necessarily the best, but if those languages serve a client’s needs, that’s where you’ll find your income.
About the Author
Anna is a freelance writer, researcher, and business consultant. A columnist for Entrepreneur.com, TheNextWeb.com and more, Anna specializes in entrepreneurship, technology, and social media trends. Follow her on Twitter and LinkedIn.
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