Best Programming Language to Learn: Top 14 Picks

best programming language to learn

Today, we use computers and phones a lot, right? Well, to make all those apps and websites, people use special codes called programming languages. Some folks wonder which is the best programming language to learn right now.

In this article, we’ll talk about ten really important programming languages. We’ll share cool things about each one, why they’re good, and why people like them.

Join us on this adventure to find out which is the best programming language to learn for you!

What is the Best Programming Language to Learn First?

Lots of people want to be computer programmers, whether it’s to become a web developer, game developer, or even a Blockchain coder. Some want to make websites, some want to make games, and some are interested in Blockchain coding. What you want to do can help you pick the best programming language to learn first. There are many things to think about when choosing, like how much you already know about computers and how hard the language is.

In this article, we’re going to talk about the most popular programming languages right now. We’ll also look at which ones are most wanted by employers. After reading this, you’ll have a better idea of which is the best programming language to learn for you to start learning.

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Criteria for choosing the best programming language for you

Choosing the right programming language can be confusing if you don’t know what to look for. It’s not just about knowing the technical stuff; you also need to have the willpower to keep going, especially because some popular programming languages are a bit tough to learn.

Before diving into the main qualities needed to learn programming, think about how dedicated you are. Here are a few important things to think about to find out which is the best programming language to learn for you.

Technical qualities (use cases)

There are many types of programming languages out there, including high-level programming languages that look a lot like English. Each one is special and works best for certain things. Just like we might choose different tools for different jobs, programmers choose different languages for different tasks. Some languages are great for making websites, while others are better for things like banking. Each language has its own strengths and weaknesses.

One important type of programming language is a scripting language. Scripting languages are interpreted rather than compiled and are simple to learn with easy syntax and dynamic typing. They are used for server-side scripting and client-side scripting, enabling communication with other programming languages. JavaScript, the most popular programming language for client-side scripting, is often used to improve a webpage’s interactivity by adding dynamic elements like animated graphics, clickable buttons, and mouseover effects.

Therefore, think about first, which technical quality fits you best and then you can pick the best programming language to learn for you.

Learning Curve (for Beginner)

If you’re thinking about which is the best coding language to learn, it’s good to think about how hard it might be for you. Everyone learns at their own speed. Some people might learn quickly, while others might take a longer time. But there are some programming languages that are easier for beginners.

Also, if you’ve learned coding before or know some basics, like what “syntax” means, it might be easier for you to learn a new coding language.

Benefits & Downsides (Tech Bootcamp)

It’s a good idea to learn a language that has lots of benefits for you. Some of these good things are that many people use and support it, and you might even get paid if you become really good at it. In this article, we’ll talk about the best parts of each computer language we mention.

If someone says a programming language is perfect and has no problems, that’s not true. Every language has good and bad parts. Knowing these can help you pick the best one. We’ll talk about both the good and the bad sides of the programming languages we list. And always remember, you should attend a Tech Bootcamp to learn it the right way.

As there are always pros and cons in every language, it’s on you to decide which is the best programming language to learn.

Demand & Popularity (Desktop or App)

Choosing the most popular programming language is important before you start learning. Which languages do employers really want? Are there easy-to-use resources to help you learn? If you want to learn a new programming language, you need answers to these questions. iMi Blockchain will help show which languages are used the most and which one might be best for you.

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Top 10 List of Programming Languages to Learn in 2024

In the earlier parts, we talked about some basics. Now, let’s look at our list of the top 10 list with a clear winner as the best programming language to learn in 2024 and beyond. Below is a table that gives a quick overview of these languages. We’ll explain more about each one as we go on. In the table, there’s a rating for how popular each language is and how easy it is to learn. We used a scale from 1 to 5. A score of 1 means not popular or very hard to learn, and a score of 5 means it’s one of the most popular programming languages or easy to learn.

Most Popular Programming Languages List (Comparison Chart)

LanguageCommon use casesEasy to learnPopularity
PythonIt helps make websites, video games, and even helps robots think!It’s one of the easier ones. Score: 4/5Super popular! Score: 5/5
JavaBig websites and apps. It also helps with managing big sets of data.It’s kind of in the middle. Score: 3/5Very popular. Score: 5/5
JavaScriptMaking websites fun and interactive, and some apps.Relatively easy to learn. Rating score is 4.5/5Not too hard. Score: 4.5/5
C#Making websites, games, and more.Somewhere between easy and medium. Score: 3.5/5Popular, but not as much as Java. Score: 4/5
SwiftMaking apps for iPhones and iPads.Not too hard. Score: 4/5Super popular for iPhone apps. Score: 4.5/5
C and C++Fast apps, video games, and things like the Firefox web browser.A bit tricky. Score: 2.5/5Pretty popular, especially for fast web stuff. Score: 4/5
PHPHelps websites work and talk to their servers.Not too hard. Score: 4/5Very popular for websites. Score: 4/5
GoLangWebsites, apps, and the technology behind things like Bitcoin.Not too bad, especially if you know some programming. Score: 3.5/5Not super popular. Score: 3/5
RLooking at lots of data, teaching robots, and doing math stuff.Somewhere between easy and medium. Score: 3.5/5Not as popular as the big ones. Score: 3/5
SolidityMaking safe deals online and other web things.Not too hard, but it’s new so there might not be as much help online. Score: 3.5/5Mostly popular for special web stuff. Score: 3/5

1. Python

python

Python is the best programming language to learn. It’s a type of computer language that anyone can use for free. Lots of people help make it better and there are many tools and groups to help you learn and use it. Python can be used for websites, organizing data, making computer apps with pictures and buttons, and various tasks, including handling big data and complex mathematics.

Python’s syntax is closer to English, making it relatively simple to learn. The uses of Python vary, but it is especially in demand in artificial intelligence (AI) development, machine learning (ML) development, building websites, desktop application development, and software development. Look at this easy example of how to use Python:

print(‘Hello, world!’)

The fact that Python is a High-Level Programming language, as well as its simple syntax makes it one of the goto modern tools recommended for beginners. 

Python is best for?

Python is a computer language that a lot of people use to make websites and apps. Big companies like YouTube, Instagram, and Pinterest use Python.

  • It’s easy to start learning
  • The way it’s written makes it easy to read
  • People use it to quickly test new ideas
  • You don’t need to do extra steps to make it run, like in some other languages
  • Anyone can use and change Python because it’s “open-source” and lots of people help make Python better
  • If you’re new, some parts of Python might seem hard
  • Python can be slower than some other languages
  • It’s not the best for making mobile apps

Is Python popular? Yes! A lot of people and companies use Python, especially when working with data. You can start to learn Python here even tho, some people think it’s a good idea to learn SQL first. People who are really good at using Python can earn between $63,000 to $163,000 a year in the US.

2. Java

java

Java is a kind of computer language made by a company called Oracle. Think of Java as a special way to give instructions to computers. One cool thing about Java is you can write it once and it can work on many devices like computers, phones, and tablets. It doesn’t matter if you have a Windows computer, an Apple phone, or an Android tablet; Java, being a highly portable programming language, can work on all of them, regardless of the operating system they use.

What is Java best for?

  • Java is great for making big websites and apps
  • Big websites like Google, Twitter, and YouTube use Java
  • Java can work on different devices, which is helpful for people who make software
  • Java is supported by Oracle, a big tech company
  • Java has tools that help with many tasks, like connecting to databases
  • But Java can be slow compared to other languages
  • It can be hard to manage how Java uses computer memory

Java is the best programming language to learn today, especially for those aspiring to become high-paid Java software engineers. Because so many people and companies use it, knowing Java language skills can help you get a good job in the computer programming and software engineering industry. A website called Glassdoor.com says that Java is in high demand and many Java workers in the US earn about $103,000 every year. If you want to learn Java, you are on the right website that has helpful stuff.

3. Javascript

javascript

Javascript is like a special tool that makes websites fun and interactive. It’s one of the main things that help websites come to life. For example, when you click on a button and something happens, that might be thanks to Javascript.

Javascript is best for?

Javascript is great for making websites look cool and do fun things. Some big websites like Facebook, Wikipedia, and eBay use it. JavaScript is also widely used for web development, both on the frontend and backend with the help of Node.js, a JavaScript runtime environment for running JavaScript on a server and not just the browser.

  • It works really fast because it runs right in your web browser
  • It’s easy to add to a website, especially with tools like node.js
  • It has a lot of extra tools to make it even more powerful
  • Lots of people know and use Javascript, so there’s a big community to help and share ideas
  • But, sometimes different web browsers might show Javascript things a little differently
  • It doesn’t keep a copy, and there aren’t backup methods
  • It only lets one thing inherit from another, which is a bit like saying you can only get traits from one parent

Why should you care? Javascript is a big deal in the world of making websites. If you learn Javascript and get really good at it, a lot of companies might want to hire you. In the US, people who are experts at Javascript can make around $101,000 a year.

4. C#

c programming language

C# (pronounced “C sharp”) is a programming language made by Microsoft. Think of it as a special tool that computer experts use to create software. This language can be used in many different ways, like making websites, video games, and more. It works with something called .NET, which helps it run on different devices. Some big-name applications, like Adobe Photoshop and Xbox games, were made using C#. C++ lacks security, contains pointers that can take up a lot of memory management, and may be difficult to debug.

C# is best for?

  • It’s good for making a lot of things, especially websites and games
  • It works really well with Windows, which many people use
  • C# is fast. It can quickly turn the code into a running program
  • If you need to add more to your software later on, C# makes it easy
  • It has many built-in tools and features to help developers
  • Some people find it harder than other programming tools
  • It may take time to find and fix errors in the code
  • Some folks think C# isn’t as popular anymore, but that’s not true, as still it’s very important and many companies use it

Why is C# the best programming language to learn? A person who is really good at using C# can earn around $103,000 a year!

5. Swift

swift programming language

Swift is a computer language made just for Apple’s iOS apps. iOS apps are getting really famous because they’re special. Apple made Swift in 2014 so that people could use it on Linux and Mac computers. It’s a free language, and it can work with another language called Objective-C.

What’s Swift good for?

  • It’s used a lot to make apps for iOS
  • Big apps like WordPress, Firefox, SoundCloud, and some games use Swift
  • It’s easy to read and learn
  • It can work with Objective-C
  • Anyone can use and change it because it’s free
  • It’s faster than some languages like Python
  • Swift can be used on servers with different techs
  • Not many people in the community help with it even though it’s free
  • It doesn’t always work well with tools from other companies
  • It can’t be used for really old iOS apps; only ones that came after iOS7

Even though Swift is kinda new, many Apple app makers like it. Because it’s new it’s a top pick as the best programming language to learn. People who are really good at Swift can earn a lot, around $129,000 on average!

6. C and C++

c programming language 1

C++ is like a special tool to tell computers what to do. It was made by Bjarne Stroustrup and is like an upgraded version of another tool called C. People use C++ to make things like computer systems, games, and even parts of websites.

C++ is best for?

  • It helps computers do tasks really quickly
  • Big companies, like the ones that make video games or Firefox (a web browser), use C++
  • It’s a good tool to start with if you want to learn how computers really work
  • It can be used in many different projects, from games to websites
  • C++ programs run fast
  • C++ programs can be easy to read if done well
  • C++ can be tricky to learn at first
  • There might be better tools for some new or fancy projects
  • Sometimes, mistakes in C++ can cause computer problems
  • Even though C++ has been popular for a long time, people are now starting to use other tools too

Did you know? Someone who is really good at C++ might earn around $99,500 a year!

7. PHP

php programming

PHP is a kind of computer language that many websites use. Even though lots of websites use PHP, other computer languages are trying to be more popular too. But still, many new companies want people who know how to use PHP.

PHP is best for?

  • PHP helps make websites
  • It’s used for writing important parts of a website that users don’t always see
  • It’s one of the easier languages for making websites
  • It’s free to use and doesn’t cost much
  • PHP can do more things with the help of extra tools
  • However, PHP needs to be safer and better at telling you when something goes wrong

Lots of people who make websites and apps use PHP. If you’re really good at PHP, you might earn about $105,000 a year.

8. GoLang

golang

Go, often called “GoLang”, is a young language made by Google. Go is the best programming language to learn if you want to earn a high salary. It’s mostly used to make websites and web tools. Because it can do many things at once, companies like using Go to build complex systems. People also use GoLang to create blockchain stuff. For example, Go Ethereum is a version of Ethereum, which came after versions made in C++ and Python.

While it’s a young language, Go is one of the fastest-growing programming languages. Concurrent programming, one of Go’s best features, enables programmers to work with multicore CPUs and a massive codebase to create algorithms, web servers, and data pipelines.

GoLang is best for?

  • Go is great for making websites and apps
  • It’s used in blockchain (like digital money systems)
  • More and more data scientists are starting to use it
  • Big companies like Uber, Twitch, and Google use GoLang
  • Google backs it, so it gets a lot of help and updates
  • It’s got a simple way of writing, so it’s easy to pick up
  • It’s really good for making web pages that load all at once
  • GoLang is super fast because it talks directly to computers
  • It has clear instructions for users
  • GoLang doesn’t have its own tools to make graphics
  • It doesn’t have a special system (called a virtual machine), so some big programs might not run as well

While many people in places like Silicon Valley love using Go, not everyone around the world uses it. But if you learn it, you might earn a good amount of money. Some GoLang programmers can make up to $184,000 a year!

9. R

r programming language

R is a free programming tool used a lot for working with data. Many people, especially those who work with numbers, like to use R. It can work well with another system called S, so it’s easy to mix them.

R is best for?

  • R is used by people who want to make tools for understanding big groups of data
  • People also use it to create machine learning models, which help computers learn from patterns
  • It’s free to use
  • It’s great for managing a lot of data
  • There’s a big group of people who use and support it
  • It might not be as safe as some other tools
  • It’s slower than another tool called Python
  • The way it saves things might make it more costly to use

R is one of the top choices for people working with data. But nowadays, more people are starting to use Python instead. R is the 3rd best programming language to learn because you earn about $91,000 a year.

10. Solidity 

solidity programming language

Solidity is like a special tool to make smart agreements on a computer system called Ethereum. Gavin Wood first thought of this idea, and then a team from Ethereum made it. This tool is a bit like other computer tools you might know, such as Python and JavaScript.

Solidity is best for?

Solidity is great for making special computer agreements and apps that work with Ethereum. Why use Solidity?

  • It’s safe and helps people make agreements together on Ethereum
  • It can do many things safely with a special thing called ABI
  • Once an agreement is made, changing it is hard
  • But, Solidity is new, so it’s not perfect like some older tools, like Python
  • Fixing problems in Solidity can be tough

Only some special developers use Solidity for Ethereum agreements. Not everyone uses it for everything. Solidity is not the best programming language to learn if you want to earn a lot. The average salary is around $77,000.

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Other Best Coding Language to Learn worth mentioning

Coders are like inventors. They create new computer languages to solve problems. That’s why it’s not easy to say which one is the best coding language to learn. There are three very important languages and one new one we want to talk about. Let’s call them numbers 11, 12, 13, and 14 on our list.

11. Kotlin

kotlin programming language

Kotlin is a computer language made by a company called JetBrains in 2011. You can find all its details on a website called GitHub. This language works well with another older language called Java. People use Kotlin a lot for making apps on iPhones and Android phones. In fact, many Android app creators like using Kotlin the most for web application development.

12. HTML & CSS

html css programming

HTML is usually the 1st best programming language to learn for absolute beginners. It is like the building blocks for websites. Some people think that HTML and CSS aren’t like regular computer codes. They’re special because they just tell a website how to look and what to have on it. Other codes do more complicated stuff. So if you’re new to making websites, start to learn HTML (hypertext markup language) and learn CSS (incorporate cascading style sheets) to determine the size, color, and position of all page elements, including headings and adding functionality.

13. SQL

sql logo

SQL coding is a way to talk to databases. Databases store lots of information, like names and addresses for a business. With SQL, you can ask the database questions, like “Who lives in New York?” or “How many products did we sell last month?”. People who learn SQL use it to manage, search, and organize the information in these databases, helping businesses and websites work smoothly.

14. Ruby

ruby programming

Ruby is a type of computer language used for making programs. Think of Ruby and Ruby on Rails as two different things, even if their names sound alike. Ruby was inspired by other computer languages like Perl and Lisp. A famous website called Airbnb uses Ruby to run its site where people book places to stay.

Key Takeaways

Did we answer: “What programming language should I learn first?” If not, just think about that computer science has brought us many different computer languages. Each one has its own special job. Some are for making software, while others are for making apps on phones like iPhones or Androids. If you want to start learning one of these languages, there are important things to think about. You should look at how hard it is to learn, how popular it is, and what it’s good (or bad) at doing.

Also, think about what you want to do in the future. Then it’s easier to answer which is the best programming language to learn. For example, if you want to build websites, you might learn Python, PHP, or C#. If you want to work with lots of numbers and data, then R and Python could be good choices. Always let your goals guide you in picking a computer language to learn. SQL, a powerful query language, is also worth considering if you are interested in data science and statistical computing. Enroll in courses at the iMi Blockchain Academy to learn any programming language you want.

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FAQ

What programming language should I learn first?

Choose the best programming language based on your goals and its difficulty. Consider available resources and tutorials. You can learn through self-study, school, or coding bootcamps. Pick a language you’re comfortable with to reach your goals. Bootcamps are a great way to boost your programming career.

What is the easiest programming language to learn?

Every programming language varies in difficulty. The easiest one for beginners differs for each person. Someone with coding knowledge might find a new language simple, but beginners might find it hard. It all depends on your experience.

Which is easier Python or C++?

Python is often seen as easier for beginners because of its simple syntax. C++ can be trickier due to more complex features. However, some with a programming background might find C++ easier. Choose the language that fits your goals best.

What is the best programming language to learn to get a job?

Looking for a job in programming? Choose general languages like Python, C#, or for game development. Check which languages startups in your area want. For beginners, Java is a great start because it’s simple. Also, look at Stack Overflow’s surveys to see popular languages.

What is required for a full-stack developer?

A full-stack developer handles both the visible and hidden parts of a website. They need good management skills and should know languages like HTML/CSS and tools like Angular JS and React.

Is C++ still the best programming language?

It depends on the project and what you want. C++ is strong and used a lot, especially for fast tasks. But, other languages like Python and JavaScript are great for other jobs. The best language depends on your goal.

Marcel Isler

Marcel Isler

Marcel is a Business Economist and founder of iMi Blockchain. A Consultant and international Keynote Speaker. He studied at the University of Oxford. He helps enterprises to implement Blockchain applications. On our blog, he writes about distributed ledger technology, smart contracts, cryptocurrencies, industry news, and future trends.