What is the difference between Cython and CPython?


CPython

CPython is the implementation of the language called “Python” in C. Python is an interpreted programming language. Hence, Python programmers need interpreters to convert Python code into machine code. Whereas Cython is a compiled programming language. The Cython programs can be executed directly by the CPU of the underlying computer without using any interpreter.

Cython

Cython is designed as a C-extension for Python. The developers can use Cython to speed up Python code execution. But they can still write and run Python programs without using Cython. But the programmers have to install both Python and C-compiler as a pre-requisite to run Cython programs.

Let us now see the differences −

Basis Cython CPython
Interpreto Cython is not a Python interpreter CPython is the default and most widely used interpreter or implementation of Python.
What? Cython is a superset of the Python language. It is the original Python version.
Speed of Execution Cython is faster. It is slower.
C and Python Cython understands C specifications with Python and which additionally supports calling C/C++ functions. Understands the code written using python specifications.

Updated on: 12-Aug-2022

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