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In this article, I provide alternatives to mainstream Python libraries.
These alternatives add some value to the Python landscape even though mainstream libraries are supported by stronger active communities.
Choosing your libraries comes down to your use case and personal preference.
1.Taipy instead of Streamlit
Taipy is the new kid on the block. Just like Streamlit, Taipy provides an easy way to build interactive GUI; a simple Python app builder.
However, Taipy addresses most of Streamlitās limitations/inefficiencies:
- Manages both synchronous/asynchronous calls
- Full notebook compatibility
- Multi-user
- There are more customization capabilities for your layout, styling, etc. (no CSS needed)
- Big Data Support
- Better performance
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2.Polars instead of Pandas
Polars is inspired by Pythonās royalty: Pandas. Like it, itās a DataFrame library created to handle data, but it really shines when processing large datasets.
Polars is faster than Pandas by a factor of 10 to 100 for two main reasons:
- Polarsā built-in parallel processing
- Being written in Rust
Will Polars replace Pandas? Only time will tell.
3.Dask instead of PySpark
Dask can handle larger-than-memory computations combined with parallel computing.
It is a great tool when you want your calculations to scale. It is written natively in Python, making it a breeze to learn/use (for Python developers).
It is not designed for super large big data (over or 2 TB), nor is it competitive (with Spark) if you are dealing with SQL-like queries.
Perfect for laptop executions.
4.LightGBM instead of XGBoost
Both XGBoost and LightGBM are gradient-boosting libraries.
XGBoost is a Kaggle favorite, but when it comes to handling large datasets, LightGBM is optimized for Big data with parallel computation.
5.PyCaret instead of Scikit-learn
Like Scikit-learn, you can perform Machine Learning tasks with PyCaret.
PyCaret showcases its functionalities through simpler code, a great way to get started with ML learning projects.
PyCaret is simple and easy to learn. Some of its high-level functionalities are:
- EDA & Data Processing
- modeling / Training
- Model Explainability
- Model Deployment
Its end-to-end coverage of the various machine learning steps makes PyCaret a great tool for ML enthusiasts or even senior Data Scientists with no time for deeper analysis!
6.Darts instead of tsfresh
Both libraries are dedicated to time series. However, they serve different purposes.
Darts is the āsklearnā of time series. It covers all the different functions a DS needs when dealing with time series:
- Data Discovery
- Data Preprocessing
- Forecasting
- Model Evaluation / Selection
No need to use several libraries anymore; it is all available in Darts.
tsfresh is about automating one of the most challenging steps when preparing time series for an ML training step: feature extraction and selection.
tsfresh can extract a large panel of features from your time series and help you identify the relevant ones.
7.PyTorch instead of TensorFlow
Both are the go-to libraries for data scientists and researchers involved with deep learning.
TensorFlow was the prevalent library a few years back, but from 2020 to 2021, PyTorch has caught up with TensorFlow.
How do you choose between these two incredible libraries?
PyTorch seems to have an edge in research with a bigger focus on NLP.
Additionally, PyTorch has a more pythonic feel with an easier learning curve.
I would recommend giving PyTorch a go if youāre new to the deep-learning game; otherwise, both libraries are on par.
8.Arcade instead of Pygame
In the Python 2D gaming scene, Pygame has acquired a solid reputation, while Arcade, a newer but well-established library, stands out on these properties:
- built-in game loop
- efficient event model
- more features
- more user-friendly
Both libraries have their own advantages; however Arcade is a more suitable option for beginners.
Pygame does offers an educational alternative, Pygame Zero, a better option for new developers.
9.spaCy instead of NLTK
NLTK is the mainstream library for Natural Language Processing and has a plethora of functionalities.
However, with more complexity comes a steeper learning curve. SpaCy is a good option for getting started in the field.
The other big advantage of SpaCy is that it was built to optimize NLP applications, focusing on greater speed and efficiency.
10.Ruff instead of Pylint
Linters are an essential part of any coding journey.
Pylint is widely used, but Ruff adds effectiveness and speed to the process.
It is known to be 10-100 times faster than equivalent linters, Ruff is definitely a good library to check out as a Pylint alternative.
I hope you enjoyed this article!š
Iām a rookie writer and would welcome any suggestions for improvement!
Feel free to share if you have favorite libraries that you prefer over more mainstream ones.
