
Python or R – Which is Better for Learning Data Science?
- Posted by 3.0 University
- Categories Data Science
- Date June 19, 2025
- Comments 0 comment
For anyone looking to get into data science, picking a programming language is definitely a big first step. You’ve got Python and R, and honestly, both have their cool things going for them, which can make it tough to decide at the beginning.
Is Python or R better for data science?
Python is popular among many individuals not just in data science but also in all kinds of other fields, such website construction or task automation.
Moreover, many novices find Python’s writing style to be quite clear. R, on the other hand, comes from a background of stats and generating graphs and charts, hence it’s ideal if you’re truly into fiddling with data and scholarly work.
Many times, this leaves one wondering, “So, is Python or R the ‘better’ choice for data science?”
Actually, however, it will rely on your intended activity as well as the requirements of a project. Then there’s the entire speed issue—that is, “Which one is quicker, Python or R?” and also their simplicity of learning.
Ultimately, knowing what each language excels in will be rather crucial for you as a data scientist beginning from here; we will discuss this further in this article. [Image}

Among data scientists, these graphic contrasts the Python and R adoption rates. With 85.5% of Python adopted, compared to R’s 33.6%, Python is much more popular. This shows how more broadly Python is appealing in the area of data science.
Comparing the Speed: Which is Faster, Python or R?
Python vs r for data science which is better? Performance speed is often the deciding factor when selecting between Python and R as the “best” data science language.
Although both have supporters, comparative studies show varied capabilities depending on the situation.
Generally speaking, Python tends to shine in broader programming tasks due to its flexible tools; however, R is often chosen for statistical work and data visuals.
As noted in [cited], R’s specialisation can mean faster work on complex statistical models – a big deal when handling lots of data.
On the other hand, Python’s solid base allows good speed gains in machine learning and data handling, with libraries like NumPy and pandas.
So, is Python or R faster? The continual back-and-forth between speed and features means understanding these dynamics can really boost a practitioner’s productivity and impact in data science, especially when deciding which to learn first.
Language | Task | Time (Seconds) |
Python | Loading 2GB JSON Dataset | 169.14 |
R | Loading 2GB JSON Dataset | 37.19 |
Python vs R Speed Comparison
Evaluating Ease of Learning: R vs. Python: Which is Easier to Learn?
In short – R vs Python: Which is Easier to Learn?
How easy a programming language is to use can really affect whether people, especially those learning data science, decide to use it.
Mostly because of its tidy and logical code, which accelerates the learning process, Python is seen as simpler by many people.
Python’s simple approach explains why it’s getting increasingly popular in colleges: it’s a great choice for both beginners and experts. Conversely, R’s complex code and command line use make it more difficult even if it is great for numbers.
When you look at how each language is built up and what it is strong at, as described in [quoted], which shows you where it thrives in processing data and employing machine learning, this contrast is striking.
Python’s approachability increases its general value not just as a data research tool but also as a fundamental method of learning programming too.
Language | Ease of Learning | Syntax | Learning Curve | Community Support |
Python | Easy | Clear and concise, resembling natural language | Gradual and smooth, suitable for beginners | Large and active, with extensive online resources |
R | Moderate | Unique and specialized for statistical analysis | Steeper initial curve, especially for those without a statistical background | Active, particularly in academia and research, with strong support for statistical tasks |
Ease of Learning: Python vs. R
Determining the Best Programming Language for Data Analysis
The optimal programming language for data analysis is continually under discussion among data scientists. Whether Python or R is the superior option depends much on factors like speed, simplicity of learning, and community support.
For cool data images and statistical packages, R is outstanding.
Python is powerful, however, and capable of more than simply data handling—websites and machine learning among others.
Which thus is simpler to pick up—R or Python?
That’s a significant issue, particularly considering your inexperience in data science.
Examining the strengths and shortcomings of every language—including usability and performance tests—allows us to identify which one could be better fit for those wishing to efficiently use data.
Usually speaking, choosing the correct instrument requires balancing these elements.
The graphic shows among data scientists Python and R adoption rates. Of responders, 85.5% use Python while only 33.6% use R. This amply emphasises Python’s popularity and more general appeal among data scientists.
Conclusion
In data science, choosing whether to start with Python or R truly comes down to your project’s objectives and desired outcome.
Python is quite flexible, especially suitable if your interests lie in general programming and automating more than just statistical analysis.
For many, its extensive collection of libraries and readability provide a strong basis.
R, however, is still a solid choice for statisticians and data analysts who need detailed data visualisations and complex statistical calculations.
As shown in [cited], both languages have structures that highlight their different uses, so one isn’t necessarily better than the other.
Plus, studies in the images below show different advantages, which suggests there isn’t a clear-cut answer to which is “better” for data science. In most cases, the better question is which tool is the best fit for your specific career path.

Image1. Comparison of R and Python Programming Languages

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