Convert list to tuple in Python

python

tuple

data-structure

immutable-data

byAnton Shumikhin·Jan 13, 2025

To transform a list to a tuple, utilise Python's tuple() constructor.

Example:

my_list = ["Life", "Universe", "Everything"]
my_tuple = tuple(my_list)

Result: ('Life', 'Universe', 'Everything')

That's one small step for a program, one giant leap for your code's immutability.

Tuple the untouchable

Tuples are your best bet for data that's off-limits for tampering. They're the guardians of unchangeable data like configuration, credentials, or simply constants. They're not just immutable but also make great dictionary keys.

Tuple unpacking: Unboxing the surprise

Surprise! Tuples come with a gift: the ability to unpack. Assign tuple values to variables in a clean, elegant way.

Example:

fst, snd, trd = ("Python", "C", "Java")

Result: fst = 'Python', snd = 'C', trd = 'Java'

Turns out, Python really does come before C and Java. Coincidence? I think not.

Watch out for pitfalls

While turning lists to tuples is a no-brainer in Python, a few practices can help you evade stumbling blocks:

Naming collisions: Avoid naming variables list or tuple to prevent overwriting built-ins. Trust me; you don’t want that headache!
Error recovery: Mistakenly overwritten tuple? Sweat not! You can restore it with del tuple or by restarting the interpreter.
Performance bursts: Tuples can outperform lists in certain cases, especially with large, unchanging collections.
Immutable preferences: Tuples are your friends when your data must not mutate!
Unpacking perks: To improve performance and readability, prefer tuple unpacking over indexing.

Shout out to tuple benefits

Tuples aren’t merely frozen lists; they serve numerous advantages:

Memory footprint: Owing to their immutability, tuples can be more memory-efficient.
Hashability: Tuples, in contrast to lists, are hashable and hence can serve as dictionary keys.
Function Arguments: Tuples are the go-to for passing arguments to functions and returning multiple values.

The "Don’t use tuples" scenario

Tuples are not always the heroes; sometimes, lists steal the show:

Mutating data: For storing data that will change, opt for lists.
API standards: If you work with libraries or frameworks that expect lists, stick to them.
Performance: For quick append and pop operations critical in queues or stacks, lists outrun tuples.