Python vs. JavaScript: Which One Should You Learn First?

The debate about which programming language to learn first—Python or JavaScript—may have crossed your mind as you enter the programming world. These are two languages of great potential and scope in terms of careers. Deciding which language to choose essentially relies on what you want to create.

In this article, I provide a description of the languages, discuss my working experience with both, and provide insights that may help you in making a better choice based on your aspirations.

1. A Brief Definition of Python

Often considered a good choice for beginners, Python is still an advanced programming language. With super-simple structures and syntax, the same are being heavily used by the likes of Google, NASA, and Netflix.

Why Python is Popular:

✔ Readability and Ease: The syntax of Python is very close to the human language, making it less tedious for a beginner.
✔ Strong in Data Science and AI: If your interest lies in machine learning, AI, or data analysis, it is not just a phase for Python; it is the king.
✔ Web Development with Django and Flask: If the frontend is JavaScript's territory, Python has some heavy-duty backend frameworks.
✔ Great for Automation: Many developers use Python to automate tedious tasks, saving hours of manual work.

The Downsides of Python:

❌ Mobile App Development: Python is not too popular in mobile development.
❌ Slower Execution Speed: As an interpreted language, Python is inherently slower than JavaScript or C++.
❌ Limited Use for Web Frontend: Unlike JavaScript, Python is not suitable for implementing web front-end programming directly in the browser.

Real-World Example: If you have ever used Spotify, its recommendation algorithm relies on Python's data science prowess.

2. A Brief Definition of JavaScript

JavaScript is the language of the web, and it creates interactive Web sites, Web applications, and even backend systems. This makes it vital for anyone who wants to become a web developer.

Why JavaScript is Popular:

✔ A Must for Frontend Development: JavaScript is the only programming language that runs natively inside browsing environments: all browsers understand JavaScript.
✔ Full-Stack Capibilities: Node.js, JavaScript can also deal with the backend development side of things.
✔ Speed: Execution wise it is faster than Python; therefore, it suits real-time applications.
✔ Huge Community and Great Market: Google, Facebook, and Amazon rely heavily on JavaScript.

Some Issues with JavaScript:

❌ Confusing for Beginners: Some quirks may confuse beginners when learning JavaScript.
❌ Security Threats: JavaScript is more vulnerable to hacking since it executes at the browser end, and if care is not taken to code securely, anything can be jeopardized.
❌ Rapidly Changing Ecosystem: JavaScript frameworks keep evolving, and staying abreast of new tech on a continuous basis is a demand that any JavaScript developer faces.

Real-World Example: Twitter, Instagram, and Airbnb are examples of dynamic web applications powered by JavaScript.

3. Differences Between Python and JavaScript