What is the difference between a string and a byte string?

python

encoding

unicode

data-types

byAlex Kataev·Oct 19, 2024

Strings in Python represent Unicode text, while byte strings (bytes) handle binary data or encoded text. Use '' for strings, and b'' for byte strings.

# 21st century hieroglyphics: a text string
text = "Data"

# Binary soup, ready to cause some mayhem: a byte string
byte_text = b"Data"

In practice, you'll use strings when dealing with text, and byte strings when interacting with anything that requires binary data or encoded text.

Encoding 101

Deploying `.encode()` and `.decode()`

Transform strings into byte strings via Python's .encode() method. The encoding is specified (for example, "UTF-8"). Like a pro, Python's .decode() method changes byte strings back to strings, provided you know the right encoding.

Encodings: A matter of life and error

The Dark Side of encoding involves decoding blindly without knowing the correct encoding. This leads to data misinterpretation, and that's not a fun day at the office. Always specify the encoding parameter to avoid errors when dealing with Unicode files.

Encoding: The VIP

Choosing the correct encoding is like picking the right tools for a job. UTF-8 is like having a Swiss Army knife: it provides cross-platform compatibility and can handle the most tasks.

The slightly deeper dive

The case of bytes and files

'rb' or 'wb' are your best friends when dealing with binary data (byte strings) from/to files. You'll be dealing with the raw, unprocessed bytes. It's like working directly with the Matrix!

Universal travel with Unicode

The Unicode standard gives unique numbers to characters - a true universal passport! Encodings like UTF-8 morph these numbers into byte sequences. Now, we have a way of handling and manipulating a cornucopia of characters from different languages.

Data bytes on the Web

On the web, servers send you a buffet of byte strings (usually UTF-8 encoded) which your browser automatically decodes. So the annoying ads are in human-readable format. How considerate!