I'm a web developer with experience in languages like Python, PHP, and C#. I've previously learned Go, but I found it lacking in low-level insight. Now, I'm looking to invest some significant time—maybe even two years—into learning a true low-level language to build terminal applications, like an image viewer. My concerns for each language are as follows: C seems very close to assembly, requiring deep understanding; Rust has a unique mindset I need to adapt to; and Zig is still evolving without a stable release. For someone in my position, what would you recommend I learn if starting today?
5 Answers
Go for C first. It’s straightforward and helps understand the fundamentals of low-level programming. After grasping C, I recommend moving to Rust. Zig is cool but might be too niche for beginners in low-level programming.
If you want to understand low-level languages, C is the way to go. It's compact and there are great resources like K&R's book, and Harvard's CS50 course offers excellent teaching material. Plus, many concepts you've encountered in other languages trace back to C, so learning it will be beneficial long-term. You can quickly get a grasp on C if you already know higher-level languages.
Definitely start with C. It's one of the oldest and most widely used low-level languages, and learning it will give you a strong foundation. Once you've got the basics, you can move on to Rust or Zig to see what advantages they bring.
C is a step above assembly, but don't confuse them. C offers a different problem-solving approach. I enjoyed C, but C++ has been even better for me due to its additional abstractions. Rust, however, is fantastic because it enforces safety, which is crucial in programming—even if it's a bit of a learning curve.
What's up with Zig? Why not C++ instead?
C is the most practical choice if you aim for system-level programming. It's fairly easy to learn and incredibly useful across domains. However, writing large applications in C can be tough due to bugs and memory issues. Rust is a better fit for toy projects with its growing libraries, but it has a steep learning curve. Zig’s not quite there yet, so I would keep it on the back burner for now.
I hear you. I think I'll take your advice.
I wish I had thought of that. A poll might've been a good idea!