What are the differences between Python pattern matching and regex?

What are the differences between Python pattern matching and regex?

Python pattern matching, introduced in Python 3.10, offers a more readable and structured way to match patterns in data, while regex is a powerful tool for string manipulation using regular expressions. Pattern matching is often easier to read and maintain.

Can you give me an example of how to use both?

Sure! For regex, you might use re.match(r'\d+', '123abc') to find digits at the start of a string. For pattern matching, you could use:

match value:
    case int():
        print('It's an integer')
    case str():
        print('It's a string')

Which one is better for performance?

It depends on the use case. Regex can be faster for simple string searches, while pattern matching can be more efficient for complex data structures due to its direct syntax and clarity.

Are there any limitations to Python's pattern matching?

Yes, pattern matching is limited to certain data types and structures. It doesn't support all regex features, such as lookaheads or lookbehinds, which can be crucial for complex string manipulations.