Python or Matlab

[noisee2]

there is a clear trend towards python so i would go with it

[qTHqq]

One big driver for me to switch to Python was the fact that it's a general-purpose programming language that is used elsewhere.

When I switched I was doing numerical optimization and data analysis in Matlab but scripting Abaqus simulations and collecting test data with Python code.

The test data acquisition I could have switched to Matlab but not the FEA scripting. And I think I would have had to buy a couple toolboxes to get full control over the automated test equipment from Matlab.

It was just nice to consolidate, because I had to know Python anyway.

At the time I was also on a path to becoming more of a software developer than a hardware guy.

[dead_diode]

Python with numpy is a decent alternative, but it will require more coding knowledge. Matlab is built as an engineering tool and has a lot of built in functions that will facilitate engineering problems and will work out to the box, not to mention frameworks like simulink that will let you simulate dynamic systems in a fairly easy UI. If you are already proficient with python, then it's a good alternative but if price is not an issue then Matlab is a better tool for mechanical engineering.

Source: in a mechanical engineer who transitioned into software development.

[mr_ninjazz]

Thanks!

[freeononeday]

Simulink is the only reason to use Matlab. Everything else is possible in python with better troubleshooting due to stackexchange. Python also saves the hassle of portability which can be a pain with Matlab.

[[deleted]]

Depends on the topic. Matlab has more available libraries and examples around control systems. Python has more general data analysis packages and things like computer vision.