![Node JS vs Python: Difference Between Node JS and Python [2024]](/__khugblog-next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fd14b9ctw0m6fid.cloudfront.net%2Fugblog%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2020%2F12%2F1539.png&w=1920&q=75)
Node.js and Python have widely discussed programming languages when it comes to back-end development. In this article, we will explore the various features of Node.js and Python, and determine how the two differ from each other so you can choose the right technology for your next project.
Python and Node.js are two popular programming languages that frequently make headlines in the field of full-stack development. Both Node.js and Python have advantages and disadvantages that make them appropriate for various use cases. Developers and other professionals must stay current with the most recent knowledge of these languages and their intricacies as technology advances. In this review, we’ll examine the fundamental distinctions of Node js vs Python while highlighting each language’s specialities, performance, and potential fields of use in 2024.
Check out our free courses to get an edge over the competition
What is Node.js?
Based on Google Chrome’s V8 JavaScript Engine, Node.js is an open-sourced server-side platform written in C++. Thanks to V8′ optimised performance and fast speed, Node.js is able to compile Javascript-based functions to machine code in a relatively efficient manner.
Unlike Python, it is not a programming language but has a built-in Javascript interpreter, and optimizers and compilers. Node.js works on an event-driven I/O model that helps developers in the creation of data-oriented real-time applications written in Javascript.
Check out upGrad’s Advanced Certification in Cloud Computing
It was invented by Ryan Dahl in 2009 to be used in Google Chrome. Node.js is compatible with Mac OS X, Microsoft’s Windows, and Linux operating systems. It is better suited for web applications and web development. Data streaming applications, JSON APIs based applications and Data Intensive Real-time Applications (DIRT) are some of the most suitable applications for Node.js.
Node.js is a potent JavaScript runtime environment used for server-side development that is based on Chrome’s V8 JavaScript engine. Building real-time apps and microservices is made possible by Node.js’s excellent handling of multiple concurrent connections, which is one of its main features. It makes use of an event-driven, non-blocking I/O mechanism that permits asynchronous processing, allowing programmers to create extremely scalable and effective programmes.
Also, Check out all trending Python tutorial concepts in 2024.
Node.js Features
- It runs on a non-blocking Javascript-based model that is single threaded and has event looping benefits for the server.
- Google’s high speed and performance V8 JavaScript Engine equips Node.js with the fastest code execution library.
- Node.js eliminates the need for buffering as the output data is segmented in pieces.
Check out upGrad’s Advanced Certification in Cyber Security
What is Python?
Python is a high level, interpreted popular programming language that is widely used in backend development. It is an object-oriented, multipurpose language that supports dynamic typing, making it faster, reliable and simpler to use. Python’s close to human language syntax makes it an ideal language for scripting.
It was invented by Guido van Rossum in 1991 and primarily runs Google’s App Engine. Since Python is an interpreted language, its execution takes longer but this results in a faster and more efficient development process. Python supports functional programming, Object Oriented Programming as well as procedural programming.
While excelling in simplicity and readability, Python is a flexible and beginner-friendly programming language. Python gives programmers the tools they need to create a wide variety of applications, from web development to data analysis and machine learning. This is because of its huge standard library and a robust ecosystem of third-party packages. Python is a well-liked choice among developers who value productivity and readable code because of its attractive syntax and simplicity.
Python Features
- It is an open sourced language and has the largest community of all programming languages
- Python has extensive libraries for analysis, testing, etc that make writing codes using it efficient and faster
- Python can be integrated with C#, Java, COM, ActiveX, and several other programming languages
- Python code is not made computer-readable code at runtime. It is interpreted
- Multiple programming patterns are possible with Python
- Python’s interpreter can include low-level modules that facilitate customisation of tools.
- Python is the leading language for back-end development, performing numerical calculations and implementing machine learning. Learn more about Python.
Performance: Node.js vs. Python
When comparing node js vs python, in some circumstances, Node.js performs significantly better than Python in terms of speed. Node.js is a good option for applications that need high scalability and real-time communication because of its non-blocking I/O paradigm and event-driven architecture, which enable it to manage concurrent connections effectively. However, because Python is an interpreted language, its performance may be constrained when used for CPU-intensive applications. However, Python has great integration capabilities with low-level languages like C and C++, enabling programmers to improve performance in key code segments.
Application Areas: Node.js and Python
Node.js is frequently used to create server-side web applications, especially ones that involve intensive I/O operations or real-time updates. It is commonly used to create APIs, streaming platforms, collaborative tools, and chat apps. Due to its lightweight design and scalability, Node.js is also well-liked for creating microservices and serverless systems.
Python is used in many different fields thanks to its rich libraries and frameworks. When creating websites, it is frequently used with frameworks like Flask and Django. Python is a great option for work involving data analysis and machine learning because of its scientific computing and data processing modules, including NumPy, Pandas, and SciPy. Additionally, Python’s readability and simplicity make it a good language for prototyping and teaching applications.
In-Demand Software Development Skills
What are the major differences between Node.js and Python?
| Architecture | |
| Although Python is not event-driven or asynchronous, it can be made so with the help of additional tools like asyncio. | Node.js is event-driven and supports asynchronous programming. This also means it is a non-blocking model where no process gets blocked and is called immediately as the event occurs. |
| Performance and Speed | |
| Since Python is a single-flow interpreted language that supports dynamic typing, the execution is much slower in comparison. | Node.js code is interpreted by V8, known for its high speed, and is executed outside the web browser, its performance is faster and more efficient. Also, since Node.js is non-blocking and even driven, and is cache-enabled, this facilitates faster execution. |
| Syntax | |
| Python is as close to regular English language as possible which makes it simple to understand and learn. It also needs fewer lines of codes. | Node.js syntax is not very unlike Javascript. While it isn’t tough, Python’s syntax offers unmatched simplicity and readability. |
| Project Size | |
| Python is suitable for larger projects since its scripting is far more efficient. | Node.js is recommended for smaller projects. |
| Interpreter | |
| Python uses PyPy. | It uses Javascript as its interpreter. |
| Extensibility | |
| Python can be integrated with development tools and frameworks like Django, Flask, Pyramid, Web2Py, or CherryPy. | Node.js is highly extensible. It can be customised and integrated with a variety of tools such as Babel, Jasmine, Log.io, Migrat, PM2, Webpack, etc. |
| Usage | |
| Python is most suitable for web (backend) development; it is the ideal framework for machine learning, artificial intelligence, big data solutions, government projects and data analysis. | Because of Node.js’ event-based model, it is best suited for providing IoT solutions, creating real-time chatbots and messengers, and building single-page apps. |
Earn data science certification from the World’s top Universities. Learn Executive PG Programs, Advanced Certificate Programs, or Masters Programs to fast-track your career.
upGrad’s Exclusive Software Development Webinar for you –
SAAS Business – What is So Different?
Similarities between Node.js and Python
While there are several differences between Node.js and Python, the two frameworks also share some similarities.
- Node.js is packed with one of the largest software library repository that is managed by NPM (Node Package Manager)
Managed by Pip (Pip installs Python), Python packages and libraries are also extensive. They are extremely fast and easy to use.
- Both Node.js and Python can be used for back-end development and front-end development. They are also cross-platform frameworks, meaning an application or program written on one operating system will work on another as well.
- Both Node.js and Python are easy to learn. With a decent knowledge of Javascript, beginners can easily grasp Node.js. Also, since Python’s simplicity when it comes to its syntax makes it extremely easy to learn and understand. It also takes fewer lines of code.
- Both Python and Node.js have a large and active community of developers having varied levels of experience. Since Python is relatively older, its community is significantly larger than Node.js’. In any case, business owners and developers alike can benefit from these open-source platforms.
Explore our Popular Software Engineering Courses
Check out: Django Vs NodeJS
Enroll in Software Engineering Courses from the World’s top Universities. Earn Executive PG Programs, Advanced Certificate Programs, or Masters Programs to fast-track your career.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there really are no winners when it comes to technologies. Both Python and Node.js have their respective strengths and weaknesses. It mainly depends on the project you’re working on and your preferences. Whichever technology you choose to go ahead with based on your requirements, will get the results you are looking for. We hope this helped!
If you’re interested to learn more about full-stack software development, check out upGrad & IIIT-B’s Executive PG Program in Full-stack Software Development which is designed for working professionals and offers 500+ hours of rigorous training, 9+ projects, and assignments, IIIT-B Alumni status, practical hands-on capstone projects & job assistance with top firms.
