Olibr Blogs

Blog > All Engineering Topics > Ruby vs Python: Which Programming Language to Choose?

Ruby vs Python: Which Programming Language to Choose?

by Pranisha Rai
Ruby vs Python Programming
Pointer image icon

Introduction

According to GitHub’s June 2023 Popularity of Programming Language (PYPL), Python holds a 27.99% market share and ranks among the most searched programming languages on Google. Similarly, Ruby holds 0.98% of the market share as per the TOIBE Index. Even though there is a huge difference in their market share, Ruby and Python stand neck to neck in fulfilling the expectations of many companies. They share similar characteristics in certain aspects that sometimes cause difficulties in making a choice between them. This article explores their key differences, similarities, and pros and cons so that you can make the right choice when in need.

best software companies

Don't miss out on your chance to work with the best!

Apply for top job opportunities today!

Pointer image icon

What is Ruby?

Ruby is a popular general-purpose, high-level programming language known for its productivity and simplicity. Developed in the year 1995 by Yukihiro Matsumoto, Ruby is popular among developers and business for its easy to read and elegant syntax.

Pointer image icon

Pros & Cons of Ruby

ProsCons
Easy to learnNot suitable for multithreading
Extensive features for out-of-the-box web developmentSyntax is complex
Open-sourceDoes not catch errors at runtime
Wide range of tools to support your web development journeyDifficult to debug


Uses JavaScript interpreterIt’s limited to web development, and not widely used for other types of software development
Supports built-in projection against CSRF, XSS, and SQL injectionsDifficult to find its gems and libraries
Flexibility in syntax and featuresLimited talent pool
Great for full-stack development 
Pointer image icon

Real-life Use Cases of Ruby

Use cases of Ruby
Pointer image icon

When Should I Use Ruby?

You can use Ruby for the following scenarios: 

  • It is highly advantageous for fast prototyping and minimum viable product (MVP) development. 
  • It makes an ideal choice for building fully functional apps for start-up companies.
  • It can also be used to develop commercial mid-sized apps.
Pointer image icon

What is Python?

Python is a high-level programming language, developed in the year 1991. Due to its robust tools and extensive libraries, it is widely used for machine learning, automation, and data science. Moreover, it offers flexibility for developers to choose between modules or packages for organizing the codebase and reuse it in other applications.

Pointer image icon

Pros and Cons of Python

ProsCons
Supports multiple operating systemsDoesn’t guarantee security
Easier to debug and maintainNeed to be extra careful during project development as it consumes a lot of memory
Seamless integration with other programming languagesSetting up the Python environment can be challenging for beginners
Highly scalablePotential challenges with garbage collection
Comprehensive set of tools and librariesLimited for mobile development
Best for machine learning and AIDisplays more errors during run time
Extensive librariesHard to handle design challenges due to which companies favor experienced Python developer
Simpler syntax than Java, C++, and CDoes not support mobile computing
Strong support for data scienceSlower app speed
Pointer image icon

Real-life Use Cases of Python

Use cases of Python
Pointer image icon

When Should I Use Python?

Python makes a great choice for the following applications: 

  • Due to its extensive framework and libraries, it is widely used in the fields of Data Science, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence. 
  • It works well with projects that require different programming languages with complex architecture.  
  • Python combined with Django can create scalable and robust web applications. 
  • It’s suitable for automation systems and scripting tasks. 
Pointer image icon

Similarities between Ruby & Python

Though their primary objectives set them apart they both share similar features.

Similarities between Ruby and Python
Both languages have cross-platform compatibility and multiple-platform support.
Both Python and Ruby allow the use of a variable in the program without declaring it in the beginning.
Both of them are approved and available under FSF and OSI licenses.
Python and Ruby support standard libraries.
Both are dynamically typed languages and follow the rules of Object-Oriented Programming.
These two languages operate as high-level programming languages and do not need to be complied with.
Both use model-view-controller (MVC) with various libraries to support functionalities.
Pointer image icon

Ruby vs. Python: Key Differences

RubyPython
It supports single inheritance.It supports multiple inheritance.
Closures are defined using blocks and developers have full access to read and write code from outer scope.Nested functions are used mostly in Python, but they give only read access to variables from outer functions.
Iteration doesn’t have any vital role.Iteration plays a crucial role.
Fully object-oriented languageNot fully object-oriented language
It uses objects as everything and does not use primitive data.Whereas, it uses both primitive data and objects
Built-in class is impossible to modifyBuilt-in classes can be easily modified
It is more of functional programming and is mostly used in web development.It is based on the CPython interpreter mostly used in machine learning, data science, AI, and other scientific programming.
Mixin concept can be used.It does not support multiple inheritance, hence, the mixin concept is not supported.
It supports larger lambda functions.It supports a one-line lambda function.
Instead of the “else if condition”, it uses “elsif” syntax.Similarly, it uses “elif” syntax.
Uses Eclipse IDE for development environment.Uses multiple IDEs for a development environment.
It has methods that need to be wrapped in procs to pass them.It only uses many functions.
Supports Arrays, Hash, Set, Struct, and Tuples as Rinda.Supports Sets, Dictionary, and Tuples.
It is quite complex and difficult to debug.It is considered as a most simple and explicit language.
Imports are very generic; developers don’t need to know it.Developers need to import particular functionality from the libraries.
Code reusability and automatic dependencies are pretty much possible but the process is slightly difficult.Code reusability can be done through modules.
It uses brackets to signify code blocks.It uses indentation to determine code blocks.
It has fewer libraries that need to be installed separately.It has a wide range of third-party libraries.
Mostly used by GitHub, Apple, Hulu, Twitter, and ZenDeskMostly used by Google, Instagram, Dropbox, Mozilla, YouTube, and Yahoo
Pointer image icon

Ruby vs Python: Which Language Should You Learn?

If you have set your short-term goal to step into the market with some expertise in web app development, Ruby would be an ideal choice. It has excellent frameworks with strong support that can assist during the development phase. You can learn Python if you’re curious to build a career in data science and scientific computing. 

Pointer image icon

Ruby vs Python: Which is Best for Beginners?

Most people pick Ruby when they embark on their web development journey, which is usual as it is well-known for its effectiveness. But if commercial web app development isn’t your main goal then Python is an excellent choice for you! It offers easier syntax, which is easy to understand. On top of that, its extensive documentation and community support will assist you whenever you encounter challenges or any issues. Additionally, its popularity in the growing field of data science and computing can open up golden opportunities

Pointer image icon

Ruby vs Python: Comparison Table

FactorsRubyPython
RepositoriesUses RubyGemsUses PyPi
Machine LearningLacks libraries and framework for AI/MLA most preferred choice for AI/ML
Documentation and LibrariesComparatively, a small range of libraries and not-so-well-written documentationWide range of libraries with extensive documentation
Testing EnvironmentSupports behavior-driven development (BDD)Doesn’t support BDD
Learning CurveRelatively easy to understandConsidered as the most favorable learning curve for beginners
Community SupportSmaller community as compared to PythonLarge active community
PopularityRuby associated with Rail has been in demandBoast its decade-long stardom and most popular beginner-friendly language
Integrated Development Environment (IDE)RubyMine, Visual Studio Code with Ruby extension, and Sublime TextPyCharm, Jupyter Notebook/JupyterLab, and Visual Studio Code with Python extension
Pointer image icon

Final Verdict

Ruby and Python are widely known for their simple syntax and high-level programming. Nevertheless, Python with its extensive library support and powerful tools outshines Ruby in terms of business growth. Though there is always an ongoing debate on Ruby vs. Python, the choice between these two solely lies in your project requirements. 

FAQs

Both Ruby and Python have a robust testing framework but their difference lies in how well they handle testing. Ruby’s flexibility and elegant syntax can offer added benefits to experimenting with code but it creates complexity when dealing with increases errors during the testing phase.

Ruby is an excellent choice for the backend development. But if you want to implement scientific computation and AI/ML into your project, without a doubt, Python with Django is the better choice. Moreover, it has the necessary libraries to support automation and data science, so you can build your application without any hassle.

Python excels in several domains due to its widespread adoption, rich ecosystem, and versatile application, making it a go-to choice for businesses.

In the case of Cyber Security, Python can do a few things such as scanning, penetration testing, and malware analysis. However, Ruby on Rails protects your application against Cross-Site Scripting and XSS attacks.

Take control of your career and land your dream job!

Sign up and start applying to the best opportunities!

Pranisha Rai

Meet Pranisha, a technical writer who loves simplifying complex jargon for a wider audience. She also likes to craft engaging storyboards on various technical topics. On holidays she finds solace in traveling to beautiful places and indulging in diverse cuisines. Playing and spending time with her furry baby brother and helping stray animals brings her joy and adds playfulness to her life outside of work.

You may also like

Leave a Comment