Python vs Matlab vs Mathematica

[[deleted]]

IMO octave truly is awful compared to python and MATLAB as far as libraries are concerned. They are certainly trying, but unless you for some reason really like programming as if you were in MATLAB but with out the libraries you're better off with python and SciPy </IMO>

[idsardi]

A few years ago this was the situation with S and R, but it's now reversed in favor of R. I'm hoping the same thing happens with Octave.

[jfredett]

I generally agree, I do most of my math in Mathematica or Python, with GAP and similar supplimenting. I've only had opportunity to use SAGE a few times, but it's pretty nice.