“ or Ruby” is the one of the most hotly debated topics in the world, ranking just behind “emacs or vim” and “pro-skub or anti-skub” in importance and complexity. This FAQ will showcase their differences, answer some common questions about both, and provide an objective, definitive answer to which is better. Python programming What is Python? Python is a type of large snake found across the southeast semihemisphere. They are nonvenomous and hunt primarily through constriction. Many extant species are endangered. What is Ruby? Ruby is a bright red gem. It is considered one of the four precious gemstones, along with emeralds, diamonds, and sapphires. There is controversy on whether rubies are red sapphires or sapphires are blue rubies. How are they similar? To an outsider, ruby and python can look almost identical: What type of thing the word means dynamically depends on context. Python can either be a type of family ( ), genus ( or species ( ). Similarly, Ruby can be either a specific mineral (corundum with chromium impurities) or the general category of red-colored stones. Dynamically Typed: pythonidae python), P. reticulatus Pythons and rubies are often used as symbols and metaphors, especially in poetry and mythology. Interpreted: They are both objects. Ruby is considered more object-oriented, though, because some people are uncomfortable thinking of animals as objects. Object Oriented: I studied physics in college and anything bigger than a hydrogen atom is considered “high level”. I’m not kidding. We don’t even have a closed-form solution for a helium atom yet and it’s just a hydrogen atom with an extra fiddly bit. High Level: How are they different? While they may seem extremely similar, there are also some key differences between the two: Ruby has , in that you can put rubies into blocks. If you put pythons into blocks, they’ll slither away. blocks Python has . Rubies are inanimate objects and do not comprehend things. comprehensions Python is generally considered more (you can sharpie bigger words on a snake), while Ruby is considered more (obvious). readable elegant What are some other important examples? You can put ruby on rails, and it will stay on the rails, unless it rolls off. Rails: A python could probably eat a panda if it tried really hard. Pandas: You think this would be a python thing, but most chefs avoid reptiles and will sometimes accept rubies as currency. Chef: A guitarist who presumably liked snakes. Django: So which is better? It depends!!! You promised an objective, definitive answer. I’m serious. It depends. What are you trying to do? Ruby is worth 9 points, python is worth 14 and pluralizes to a bingo. Play scrabble: Advantage: Python Don’t throw snakes. Shot put: Advantage: Ruby You’ll have to be pretty strong but otherwise this is a great use case for python. Model a solenoid electromagnet when you have a cylinder but forgot your string and wire at home: Advantage: Python On one hand, rubies are pretty popular in jewelry. On the other, a sneklace would be hella sweet. Wear as jewelry: Advantage: Tie People vastly prefer to kiss rubies than pythons, perhaps due to a reduced risk of getting salmonella. Run a kissing booth: Advantage: Ruby As you can see, for the majority of uses half of the time you’ll want to use ruby and half the time you’ll want to use Python. There are probably some other minor cases that push the ratio above 1:1 but they’re niche and esoteric at best. What programming language should I use for my startup? PHP. is how hackers start their afternoons. We’re a part of the family. We are now and happy to opportunities. Hacker Noon @AMI accepting submissions discuss advertising &sponsorship To learn more, , , or simply, read our about page like/message us on Facebook tweet/DM @HackerNoon. If you enjoyed this story, we recommend reading our and . Until next time, don’t take the realities of the world for granted! latest tech stories trending tech stories

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