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Pytorch vs TensorFlow - Which Framework is Better

Updated Jun 04, 2019

Be it deep learning researches or work related to machine learning; libraries are largely instrumental in helping developers decide on their course of action. In the contemporary scene, there are two popular libraries: for deep learning: Tensorflow and PyTorch. It can be quite difficult for users of these libraries to understand which library to use. Here, we have a quick rundown on the main differences between Tensorflow vs Pytorch, the definitions of Pytorch and Tensorflow, the main features of Pytorch Tensor, and so forth to guide you forward.

TensorFlow vs Pytorch

We begin with a comparison chart that depicts the main differences between Pytorch and Tensorflow.

Basis of Differentiation

Pytorch

Tensferflow

Origin

PyTorch is developed by Facebook. It is based on Torch.

TensorFlow is a popular open sourced ML library. It has been developed by Google Brain.

Features

PyTorch offers dynamic computation graphs, support for CUDA and Python, etc. Its tools and features ensure faster running of codes and increased performance.

TensorFlow offers TensorBoard with smart features that help the visualization of machine learning models. TensorFlow Serving is another tool of Tensorflow that is a specific GRPC server. It is useful during the process of deploying models in production.

Community

PyTorch boasts of a smaller community than TensorFlow. Compared to TensorFlow, it is not easy to find solutions and resources pertaining to PyTorch.

TensorFlow is used for advanced research in fields like business organisations, academics, etc. TensorFlow offers tutorials, codes, and consistent support to its users.

Visualisation

Most visualization features offered by TensorFlow are lacked by PyTorch.

TensorFlow owns TensorBoard for facilitating visualising ML models. It helps in training the model as well as spotting errors quickly.

Definition of Computational Graphs

Python offers dynamic computation graphs to aid dynamic building of graphs at each point of execution. The graphs can be manipulated at run-time.

In TensorFlow, defining computational graphs is a cumbersome and long process. The computations have to be built and run within sessions. Placeholders, variable scoping, and other parameters are put to use for defining computational graphs.

Debugging

PyTorch is a dynamic computational process that offers painless debugging processes and methods. Python debugging tools such as pdb or ipdb, etc. can be utilized in lines of code for further computations, pinpointing the cause of errors, and so forth.

TensorFlow offers the TensorFlow debugger tool. It helps users view the states of running and internal structure of TensorFlow graphs at the time of training and inference.

Deployment

Deployment in PyTorch is not as supportive as in TensorFlow. PyTorch uses the Python microframework, Flask, for the deployment of its models.

TensorFlow Serving is used by TensorFlow to offer flexible, high-scale performance means. It is the serving system machine learning model deployment. TensorFlow Serving is designed for working in production environments.

What is TensorFlow?

TensorFlow is a popular open source AI library. It offers data flow graphs and other tools to build models. TensorFlow helps in the creation of large-scale networks having many neural layers. This ML library is mainly used for: Perception, Classification, Discovering, Prediction Understanding, and Creation.

Some important features of TensorFlow are:

a. Responsive Construct: TensorFlow allows for the visualization of all parts of graphs; this is not possible with Numpy or SciKit.

b. Flexible: Those who learn Tensorflow know about its flexibility in operability; it has modularity.

c. Easily Trainable: TensorFlow can be trained on GPU and CPU for distributed computing.

d. Parallel Neural Network: TensorFlow provides pipelining to train several neural networks and GPUs. This paves the way for the models being very efficient in large-scale systems.

What is Pytorch?

PyTorch refers to a popular Python-based computing package. It utilizes the features and functionality of graphics processing units. This platform for deep learning research is designed to offer maximum speed and flexibility. It is best known for two main high-level features. These are tensor computations backed by stoic GPU acceleration support, and the possibility of constructing deep neural networks via tape-based autograd applications. Python libraries can potentially change how artificial intelligence and deep learning are performed, and PyTorch is one such library. PyTorch’s success can be attributed to being totally Pythonic. Neural network models can be built effortlessly with PyTorch. Torch deep learning is backed by PyTorch and other Pythonic features.

Conclusion:

While some find it easy to use PyTorch, others swear by the features of Tensorflow. These frameworks are backed by huge communities and plentiful support. Both these libraries are packed with several user-friendly benefits. The main points of distinction between Tensorflow vs Pytorch helps users opt for these machine learning libraries as per their needs. In case you have any further queriers with respect to which ML library to go for: Tensorflow or Pytorch, do write to us in the Comments section below. We will be happy to revert at the earliest.


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