Comparison · AI and machine learning books
Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition vs Mathematics for Machine Learning: which is better in 2026?
Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition ranks higher in our list of AI and machine learning books (#5 against #6, score 88.5 against 85.5).
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 Mathematics for Machine Learning if you want
Math behind classic machine learning methods.
Connects the mathematics directly to regression, PCA and support vector machines, with a free PDF. It has few code examples, so it works best alongside a practical text.
The main differences
- Mathematics for Machine Learning can be used for free; Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition requires payment.
Side by side
| Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition | Mathematics for Machine Learning | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 88.5 | 85.5 |
| Rank in list | #5 of 10 | #6 of 10 |
| Price | PaidPrint and eBook sold by Manning; no free full text | FreeFree PDF from the authors; printed edition from Cambridge |
| Free to use | No | Yes |
| Formats | PDF, EPUB, Print | PDF, Print |
| Author | François Chollet and Matthew Watson | Marc Peter Deisenroth, A. Aldo Faisal and Cheng Soon Ong |
| Level | Intermediate | Advanced |
| Free to read online | No | Yes |
| Latest edition | 3rd edition, September 2025 | 2020, Cambridge University Press |
| Math required | Light: basic Python and algebra | Heavy: university mathematics |
| Best for | Practical deep learning code in Python | Math behind classic machine learning methods |
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| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition vs Mathematics for Machine Learning
- Is Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition better than Mathematics for 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 85.5). Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition is best for: practical deep learning code in Python. Mathematics for Machine Learning is best for: math behind classic machine learning methods.
- Which is cheaper, Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition or Mathematics for Machine Learning?
- Deep Learning with Python, Third Edition: Print and eBook sold by Manning; no free full text. Mathematics for Machine Learning: Free PDF from the authors; printed edition from Cambridge.