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Comparison · AI and machine learning books

Deep Learning vs Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition: which is better in 2026?

Deep LearningvsDeep Learning with Python, Third Edition

Deep Learning ranks higher in our list of AI and machine learning books (#1 against #5, score 94.5 against 88.5).

Choose Deep Learning if you want

Foundations of deep learning, free online.

The canonical free textbook for the foundations of deep learning, with the full text online. It predates transformers, so pair it with a current practical guide for modern architectures.

Choose Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition if you want

Practical deep learning code in Python.

The strongest paid pick for writing deep learning code in Python, with Keras 3 and generative AI in the third edition. It has no free text and less theory than the free books above.

The main differences

  • Deep Learning can be used for free; Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition requires payment.

Side by side

Deep LearningDeep Learning with Python, Third Edition
Score94.588.5
Rank in list#1 of 10#5 of 10
PriceFreeFull text free online; print copies sold separatelyPaidPrint and eBook sold by Manning; no free full text
Free to useYesNo
FormatsRead online, PrintPDF, EPUB, Print
AuthorIan Goodfellow, Yoshua Bengio and Aaron CourvilleFrançois Chollet and Matthew Watson
LevelAdvancedIntermediate
Free to read onlineYesNo
Latest edition2016, MIT Press3rd edition, September 2025
Math requiredHeavy: linear algebra and probabilityLight: basic Python and algebra
Best forFoundations of deep learning, free onlinePractical deep learning code in Python
Strengths
  • Full text free to read on the book's website
  • Covers the mathematics used throughout deep learning
  • Written by three researchers who work on deep learning
  • Hands-on Python code with Keras 3
  • Covers generative AI in the third edition
  • Current, published September 2025
Limits
  • Published in 2016, before transformers and large language models
  • Little code; examples are mostly mathematical
  • Paid, with no free full text
  • Light on the mathematics behind the models
LinksVisit site Visit site

Questions about Deep Learning vs Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition

Is Deep Learning better than Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition?
Deep Learning ranks higher in our list of AI and machine learning books (#1 against #5, score 94.5 against 88.5). Deep Learning is best for: foundations of deep learning, free online. Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition is best for: practical deep learning code in Python.
Which is cheaper, Deep Learning or Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition?
Deep Learning: Full text free online; print copies sold separately. Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition: Print and eBook sold by Manning; no free full text.