If you are new to programming, you might be confused when you see people talk about Python vs Python 3. Are they the same? Is one better than the other? And which version should you learn?
In this blog post, we will clear up your confusion. Lets gets started!
What Is Python?
Python is a popular programming language known for being simple and beginner-friendly. People use Python for:
- Web development
- Data science
- Machine learning
- Automation
- App development
- And much more!
Python was first created in the early 1990s by Guido van Rossum. Over time, it has gone through many updates to improve how it works.
So, What Is Python 3?
Python 3 is the latest major version of Python.
It was released in 2008 as an improvement over the older version, Python 2. The goal of Python 3 was to fix old design issues and make the language more consistent.
Python 3 is the present and future of Python.
Python vs Python 3: What’s the Difference?
Let’s break it down.
| Feature | Python 2 | Python 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Print statement | print "Hello" | print("Hello") |
| Unicode support | Limited | Built-in and better |
| Integer division | Returns integer only | Can return float if needed |
| End of life | January 1, 2020 | Still supported and updated |
| Use today? | No | Yes ✅ |
Why Did Python 3 Replace Python 2?
Python 2 had some design problems that made it harder to work with, especially for modern apps. For example:
- It didn’t handle different languages (like emojis or non-English text) very well.
- Its syntax was a bit outdated.
- Some functions behaved differently than expected.
Python 3 fixed all that. But the update wasn’t backward compatible, which means code written in Python 2 didn’t always work in Python 3. That’s why people used both for many years.
But as of 2020, Python 2 is officially no longer supported. That means it doesn’t get updates or security fixes.
Which Version Should You Learn in 2025?
Always choose Python 3. Here’s why:
- It’s modern and future-proof
- All libraries and tools support it
- It’s what companies use today
- Tutorials and courses are made for Python 3
- It’s easier to write and read
Common Confusion: Is “Python” the Same as “Python 3”?
Yes, today when someone says “Python,” they usually mean Python 3.
The confusion mostly comes from old tutorials or outdated content still using the term “Python” to refer to Python 2. But don’t worry if you start learning now, you are learning Python 3 by default.
Final Thoughts
So, to answer the big question Python vs Python 3;
- Python is the language.
- Python 3 is the latest and current version of that language.
- Python 2 is the old version, and it’s no longer in use.
If you are starting your Python journey today, go with Python 3. It’s clean, modern, and beginner-friendly.
Ready to Start Learning Python 3?
Awesome! Begin with the basics like variables, loops, and functions — and soon you’ll be building real projects. Whether you want to become a web developer, data analyst, or automation expert, Python 3 is the right path.
Check out my blog on careers an roadmap on python to get started.
👉 Have questions about Python or want beginner project ideas? Drop them in the comments or explore our other blog posts!
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between Python vs Python 3?
A: Python 3 is the current version of Python. It fixed issues from older versions like Python 2.
Q: Should I learn Python 3 or Python?
A: Learn Python 3. It’s the version everyone uses now.
Q: Is Python 3 outdated?
A: No. Python 3 is up-to-date and actively maintained.
Q: Will there be a Python 4?
A: Yes, but it will be an upgrade, not a big change like Python 2 to 3.
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