Should You Learn Linux or Python First?

I love it when beginners ask questions, and this is a question that we get asked by people who are trying to take their first steps into software development. So, let’s take a look at whether or not you should learn Linux or Python first.

It is best to understand an operating system environment before jumping into programming, so it’s better to learn Linux before learning Python. It’s also good to become familiar with an IDE (Integrated Development Environment) of choice before learning to code in Python.

I recently did a poll on my YouTube channel where I asked whether or not you should learn Linux or Python first, and out of over 200 votes, the majority said that you should learn Linux. Below, you can see an image of that poll. And yes, I decided to cast my vote as well.

If you’re like me and sometimes mix up syntax between programming languages, I’ve got just the thing for you. I’ve put together a Python cheat sheet with all the essential syntax in one place, so you can keep it handy and avoid any confusion. Download it here for free!

What is Better, Linux or Python?

Python and Linux are two completely separate things. So, it’s impossible to compare them directly. Linux is an operating system that you install on a device such as a PC, Mac, or Raspberry Pi.

On the other hand, Python is a programming language that you can use to write programs for operating systems like Linux, Windows, iOS, Android, and much more. There are better questions that you can ask instead, such as:

• Can Linux and Python be used together? Yes, Linux is an OS with the tools needed for Python programming.
• Are there advantages to using Linux for Python? Yes, you can. However, Windows is still the first choice for most developers.
• Do you have to learn Linux as a Python developer? No, you can stick to your preferred OS, but you become a better candidate during interviews if you know Linux as an extra skill.

Related: Do You Really Need Programming Skills for Raspberry Pi?

Is It Worth Learning Linux?

I recommend that all new programmers learn Linux. Linux is is an open-source operating system that has a large library and a dedicated community. The OS itself has very few barriers, making learning how to program on it slightly more rewarding.

However, there is a catch. Learning Linux isn’t easy. Yes, once you have sufficient knowledge regarding the operating system, programming on it is quite user-friendly. That said, during the learning process, you can expect to endure a few late nights and tedious moments.

Before you start trying to understand all the concepts regarding Linux, let’s go over what Linux distributions are.

Linux Has Different Variations

When you start learning about Linux, you will notice that there are different variations of Linux, which are officially called “distributions.”

To use an analogy, let’s briefly discuss Android. Two different phones can be running Android 14, but they each have their own versions tailored to the specific phones. In the same vein, Linux distributions are like different flavors of Linux.

Some distributions of Linux are better for some activities than others, which is especially true when it comes to programming. Because you’re reading this article, I can safely assume that you want to learn Linux for programming with Python.

So, I recommend starting your Linux learning journey with one of these three distributions:

• Ubuntu
• Manjaro
• Puppy Linux

Ubuntu is by far the most popular, and it is the one that I recommend for anyone who is starting out because it is overall the most user-friendly distribution of Linux.

Which OS is Best for Python?

In my experience, Windows is still the best platform for developers using most languages, including Python. Linux does seem to be the second choice for most developers. During a recent poll on a developer forum, around 26% say that they use Linux.

However, it’s important to remember that you should use the OS that you prefer. Productivity is highly important for programmers, and if you are more productive on Linux than you are on Windows, that is the best platform for you and vice versa.

Windows is the best OS for Python because, as an operating system, it has everything that you need, from the ability to run different IDEs to source code libraries and much more.

By the way, if it is unclear to you why Python is used on Raspberry Pi, you should click on that link to know everything about it.

Can I Learn Linux and Python at the Same Time?

Yes, you can learn as many languages and operating ystems at the same time as you want. However, I advise against training on more than one at a time.

I always advise people to learn your operating system, your IDE (Integrated Development Environment, an app for developers) and then specialize in a language such as Python. Doing things in this order might make things seem slow at first, but in my experience, it streamlines the learning process.

At the beginning of my software development journey, I had to learn C# and Visual Studio. For some reason, I decided it would be a good idea to learn Microsoft Access simultaneously. Doing this slowed down my learning progress.

If I had simply learned the ins and outs of Visual Studio before C#, it would streamline my progress, and while I am glad I know my way around databases, I should have left Microsoft Access for a later date.

Should I Learn Python or Bash?

I would most definitely learn Python instead of Bash. However, at a later date, you can start learning the ins and outs and fundamentals of Bash.

With that said, Bash and Python are not developed to do the same thing. They are inherently different from each other. You will be better off learning other languages, such as:

• C++
• C
• C#
• Java
• JavaScript

Related: Bash vs Python on Raspberry Pi: When to Use One or the Other

Bash is Not Technically a Programming Language

You could say that for an advanced software developer, Bash can be used as a programming language because it can be used to manipulate operating systems to perform certain tasks. Remember, we are talking about developers who have years of experience.

It’s important to make the distinction that Bash is not technically a programming language; instead, It’s a command-line interpreter. When you use Bash to write bigger programs, you’ll notice that it gets sluggish, meaning your code will never be efficient, at least in my experience.

The best thing that Bash is used for is writing shell scripts (a sequence of command lines with simple expressions and conditions).

By the way, if you are not familiar with command lines, I would recommend checking this article first, which will give you the most important ones to remember with a free cheat sheet you can download to have all of them at your fingertips.

Note: Want to write your first Bash script, including variables and conditions? I have a video lesson on this topic just for community members. Join here to watch, and get access to 30+ other lessons for Raspberry Pi along with many other benefits!

Python is Powerful and Easy

If you are questioning which language you should learn, one thing I can say about Python is that it is extremely powerful. Many companies hire Python developers, and there are a lot of programs that depend on Python.

When you compare Python to other languages, you will notice that it is a lot easier to learn, especially when comparing it with other object-oriented languages such as C# and C++.

That’s why Python has been chosen as the main language on Raspberry Pi, and also why I used it in my book about programming on Raspberry Pi. Python is often used in robotics too, to control sensors and motors to control robots (check my favorites kits here).

Final Thoughts

That brings us to the end of this article. Hopefully, you can walk away from it with more answers than you had questions. Ultimately, Python is a great language to learn. It opens up many doors for you, and if you know Linux and Windows, that should increase your chances of getting a job.

And if you don’t have one yet, using a Raspberry Pi is a good way to get started with Python or any other language (click on the link to get more details).

Whenever you're ready, here are other ways I can help you:

Master Linux Commands: Overwhelmed with Linux commands? This book is your essential guide to mastering the terminal. It includes practical tips, real-world examples, and a bonus cheat sheet to keep by your side.

The RaspberryTips Community: Need help with Linux or want to chat with people who actually get it? Join the RaspberryTips Community and get access to private forums, exclusive lessons, and direct support (try it for just $1).

You can also find all my recommendations for tools and hardware on this page.