In this article, we will explore the ten most popular programming languages used in robotics development. We’ll examine their strengths and weaknesses, as well as the reasons why they are or aren’t commonly used. With over 1,500 programming languages available globally, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. However, the following list highlights the top ten that are currently most relevant in the field of robotics. Each language has unique features, and the rankings here are based on the authors’ personal experience, from least to most recommended.
For many new robotics professionals, this question often comes up at some point in their careers—what is the best programming language for robots? Unfortunately, there's no single answer. If you ask robotic experts or community forums like Stack Overflow, Quora, Trossen, Reddit, or ResearchGate, you'll get different responses. Just as with core robotic skills, the most important aspect of robotics is developing "programming thinking" rather than focusing on a specific language. In many ways, it doesn't matter which language you start with. What matters is continuously improving your skills through logical thinking and problem-solving.
Returning to the topic, this article will introduce the ten most widely used programming languages in robot development. We’ll discuss their advantages, limitations, and the contexts in which they are typically applied. While there are thousands of programming languages, these ten have proven to be particularly valuable in the robotics domain.
10. BASIC / Pascal
BASIC and Pascal were among the first programming languages I learned, but that’s not the only reason they’re included here. These languages are still used in industrial robot programming. BASIC was designed for beginners, making it an accessible entry point for new developers. Pascal, on the other hand, aimed to improve programming practices by introducing constructs like pointers, serving as a bridge between basic and more complex languages. Although both are somewhat outdated today, understanding them can help when working with other industrial robot languages or higher-level coding.
9. Industrial Robot Languages
Each robot manufacturer typically has its own proprietary programming language, which has long been a challenge in the industrial robotics field. Learning Pascal can give you a foundation for understanding some of these systems. However, when working on different platforms, you may need to learn entirely new languages. For example, ABB uses RAPID, KUKA uses KRL, Comau uses PDL2, Yaskawa uses Advise, Kawasaki uses AS, Fanuc uses Karel, and Staubli uses URScript and VAL3. While standardized frameworks like ROS are becoming more common, many technicians still need to use manufacturer-specific languages.
8. LISP
LISP is the second oldest programming language after FORTRAN. Though not widely used today, it remains significant in artificial intelligence (AI) programming. Some parts of ROS are written in LISP, though you don’t necessarily need to know how ROS is implemented. LISP’s flexibility and symbolic processing capabilities make it ideal for AI research, even if it’s not commonly used in general-purpose robotics.
7. Hardware Description Language (HDL)
HDLs are used to describe electronic circuits and are essential for programming FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays). These devices allow hardware development without silicon chips, offering a faster and more flexible alternative. HDLs operate in parallel, unlike traditional sequential languages, which makes them powerful for real-time applications. If you're working with hardware emulation, you may never need HDL, but it's still worth learning if you're involved in low-level hardware design.
6. Assembly
Assembly is the lowest level of programming, allowing direct interaction with binary code ("0 and 1"). While it was once essential for hardware programming, modern microcontrollers like Arduino now offer easier alternatives using C/C++. As a result, Assembly is less commonly used by average roboticists, but it remains useful for deep hardware control and optimization.
5. MATLAB
MATLAB and its open-source counterpart Octave are widely used in robotics for data analysis, control system design, and simulation. There are also robust toolboxes specifically for robotics. Many researchers rely on MATLAB to model and simulate robotic systems. If you need to handle complex data, create visualizations, or implement control algorithms, MATLAB is a valuable tool to learn.
4. C#/.NET
C# is a Microsoft-developed language, primarily used with the .NET framework. It was the main language for Microsoft Robotics Studio, though it's less common now. If you're working within that ecosystem, learning C# is necessary. However, starting with C/C++ can provide a stronger foundation for understanding low-level programming concepts.
3. Java
Java is often introduced as a first programming language in software engineering programs. It abstracts memory management, making it easier to use but less transparent about what's happening under the hood. Like C# and MATLAB, Java is an interpreted language, meaning it runs on a virtual machine. While this allows portability, it can sometimes lead to slower performance. Despite this, Java is still widely used in robotics research and development.
2. Python
Python holds a strong position in robotics due to its simplicity and readability. It is one of the primary languages used in ROS, alongside C++. Python’s dynamic typing and extensive libraries make it ideal for rapid prototyping and experimentation. Its ability to interface with C/C++ also allows for high-performance components to be integrated into Python-based systems. With the rise of platforms like Raspberry Pi, Python is becoming even more prevalent in robotics.
1. C/C++
C and C++ are foundational in robotics, especially for low-level hardware interaction and real-time performance. Many hardware libraries and drivers are written in C/C++, making them essential for serious robotics development. While they are more complex and require more lines of code than Python, their efficiency and control make them the go-to choice for performance-critical applications.
Which One Should You Learn?
The top ten languages listed here are not all required to be mastered. The key is to choose a language that fits your goals and the hardware you're working with. Ideally, you want a language that allows you to develop programs quickly and efficiently while focusing on usability. Based on my experience, I recommend starting with Python. It’s easy to learn, has a rich set of libraries, and is widely used in robotics. Once you’re comfortable with Python, moving on to C and then C++ will help you interact with hardware more effectively. Ultimately, the best language depends on your specific needs and interests.
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