Python 2 vs Python 3: Which One Should You Learn?

Python 2 vs Python 3: Which One Should You Learn?

Python 2 vs Python 3

If you’re new to Python programming, you might be wondering: Which version of Python should I learn? With the considerable differences between Python 2 and Python 3, it’s understandable that beginners may feel unsure about where to start.

In this article, we’ll explain why Python 3 is the preferred choice for both beginners and professionals. Highlight the key differences between Python 2 and 3 to help you make an informed decision.

Table of Contents:

  1. Why You Should Learn Python 3
  2. Key Differences Between Python 2 and Python 3
  3. What’s New in Python 3?
  4. Conclusion: Make the Switch to Python 3

Why You Should Learn Python 3

As of January 2020, Python 2 is no longer supported. This means no updates, no bug fixes, and no security patches. Python 3 is now the standard version of Python, and the entire Python community has migrated to it.

If you are just starting to learn Python, there is no reason to choose Python 2—Python 3 offers better features, performance, and long-term support. It’s the language of the future.

Key Differences Between Python 2 and Python 3

Let’s dive into some of the most important differences between Python 2 and Python 3. Understanding these changes will help you see why Python 3 is the best choice for new learners.

1. Print Statement vs. Print Function

In Python 2, print is a statement, while in Python 3, it’s a function.

  • Python 2 Syntax:

    python






    print "Hello World"

    print "Hello", "World"



  • Python 3 Syntax:

    python






    print("Hello World")

    print("Hello", "World")



If you omit the parentheses in Python 3, you’ll get an error. The print function in Python 3 also gives you more flexibility, such as formatting output more easily.

2. Integer Division

In Python 2, dividing two integers will result in an integer. For example:

python
# Python 2
a = 10 / 3
print("a =", a)

Output: a = 3

In Python 3, dividing two integers will return a float:

python
# Python 3
b = 10 / 3
print("b =", b)

Output: b = 3.3333333333333335

This behavior in Python 3 is more consistent and intuitive.

3. Unicode Support

In Python 2, strings are stored as 8-bit ASCII by default. To store strings as Unicode, you need to explicitly add a u prefix. For example:

python
# Python 2
print u"Hello 🌎"

In Python 3, Unicode is the default encoding for all strings, making it easier to work with international text, emojis, and symbols:

python
# Python 3
print("Hello 🌎")

4. Range vs. Xrange

In Python 2, there were two functions for generating ranges of numbers: range() and xrange(). range() would return a list, while xrange() would return an iterator (which is more memory efficient).

In Python 3, range() behaves like xrange() did in Python 2. It returns an iterator instead of a list, making it more memory-efficient.

python
# Python 2
for i in xrange(5):
print(i)# Python 3
for i in range(5):
print(i)

 

What’s New in Python 3?

Python 3 introduces many new features and optimizations that improve both code readability and performance. Some of the most notable features include:

  • Enhanced String Handling: Everything is Unicode by default.
  • Improved Integer Division: More intuitive division with floating-point results.
  • New Syntax Features: The introduction of f-strings for cleaner and more readable string formatting.
  • Function Annotations: Python 3 allows for function annotations, which help document the expected types of function arguments and return values.

Conclusion: Make the Switch to Python 3

If you’re just starting out with Python, there’s no doubt—Python 3 is the way to go. With its modern features, better performance, and long-term support, Python 3 is the future of the language. So, if you haven’t already, make the switch and start learning Python 3 today.