What is the Difference Between Python 2 and 3?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

Python 2 and Python 3 are two versions of the Python programming language, with Python 3 being the newer and more advanced version. Some key differences between Python 2 and Python 3 include:

  1. Syntax: Python 3 has a simpler and more readable syntax compared to Python 2.
  2. Print Keyword: In Python 2, the "print" keyword is a statement, while in Python 3, it is a function.
  3. String Storage: Python 3 stores strings using Unicode by default, whereas Python 2 requires defining Unicode for strings.
  4. Global Variables: In Python 3, the value of global variables cannot be changed, while in Python 2, they can.
  5. Exceptions: In Python 3, exceptions should be enclosed in parentheses, while in Python 2, they should be enclosed in square brackets.
  6. Iterations: Python 3 introduces the new Range() function for iterations, while Python 2 uses xrange() for iterations.
  7. Libraries: Many Python 2 libraries are not forward compatible, while Python 3 libraries are designed to be used exclusively with Python 3.
  8. Support: Python 2 support was discontinued in January 2020, while Python 3 is still supported and has a wide range of users to assist with support.

Python 3 is generally recommended for new learners and projects due to its simplicity, ease of use, and broader support. Python 2, on the other hand, is primarily used for legacy code and projects that require compatibility with the older version.

Comparative Table: Python 2 vs 3

Here is a table summarizing the key differences between Python 2 and Python 3:

Feature Python 2 Python 3
Print Keyword Print is a statement, not a function Print is a function, not a statement
String Storage Strings are stored as ASCII by default Strings are stored as UNICODE by default
Division of Integers Division of two integers results in a float value Division of two integers results in an integer value
Range Function xrange() is used for iterations Range() function is used for iterations
Exceptions Exceptions should be enclosed in parenthesis Exceptions should be enclosed in notations
Variable Leakage Value of global variables changes while using it inside a for-loop Value of variables never changes
Backward Compatibility Some libraries are not forward compatible Some libraries are created to be strictly used with Python 3
Usage Python 2 is no longer in use since 2020 Python 3 is more popular and still in use
Syntax More complicated syntax Simpler and easier to understand syntax

Python 3 is more readable, easier to grasp, and popular than Python 2. It is also more commonly used in today's times, especially in fields like artificial intelligence and data science.