Comparison · AI and machine learning books
Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition vs Hands-On Machine Learning: which is better in 2026?
Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition88.5#5 in best AI and machine learning books
Hands-On Machine Learning87.0#6 in best AI and machine learning booksDeep Learning with Python, Third Edition ranks higher in our list of AI and machine learning books (#5 against #6, score 88.5 against 87.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need.
- 88.5Editorial score87.0
- 3Formats1
- NoFree to useNo
Which should you choose?
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.
Choose Hands-On Machine Learning if you want
Building models with scikit-learn and TensorFlow.
Practical code for classical models and neural networks, built on scikit-learn, Keras and TensorFlow. It is paid with no free text, and it goes less deep into theory than the books above it.
Side by side
 Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition |  Hands-On Machine Learning | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 88.5 | 87.0 |
| Rank in list | #5 of 13 | #6 of 13 |
| Price | PaidPrint and eBook sold by Manning; no free full text | PaidPrint editions from O'Reilly; price varies by seller |
| Free to use | No | No |
| Formats | PDF, EPUB, Print | |
| Author | François Chollet and Matthew Watson | Aurélien Géron |
| Level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Free to read online | No | No |
| Latest edition | 3rd edition, September 2025 | 2022, O'Reilly |
| Math required | Light: basic Python and algebra | Light: basic Python and algebra |
| Best for | Practical deep learning code in Python | Building models with scikit-learn and TensorFlow |
| Strengths |
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| Limits |
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| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition vs Hands-On Machine Learning
- Is Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition better than Hands-On Machine Learning?
- Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition ranks higher in our list of AI and machine learning books (#5 against #6, score 88.5 against 87.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need. Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition is best for: practical deep learning code in Python. Hands-On Machine Learning is best for: building models with scikit-learn and TensorFlow.
- Which is cheaper, Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition or Hands-On Machine Learning?
- Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition: Print and eBook sold by Manning; no free full text. Hands-On Machine Learning: Print editions from O'Reilly; price varies by seller.
Choosing between the two
Learning Center
1:17How to decide between two good optionsSettle a close call by sorting it by how hard it is to undo, setting a deadline, scoring the criteria as a tie-breaker and writing down why you chose.
1:20How to compare products fairly: what to keep in mindDefine the job, cap the must-haves, compare like with like, count total cost over one period and weigh the criteria. Includes a worked example.
