Python List vs Tuple – Complete Difference for GATE CSE 2026
List vs Tuple is a top 5 most asked question in GATE CSE, Python Interview, and GATE DA. Let’s understand with examples and PYQ.
What is List in Python?
List is a collection which is ordered and mutable (changeable). We use square brackets []
my_list = [1, 2, 3]
my_list[0] = 10
print(my_list) # Output: [10, 2, 3]
What is Tuple in Python?
Tuple is a collection which is ordered and immutable (not changeable). We use round brackets ()
my_tuple = (1, 2, 3)
# my_tuple[0] = 10 -> This will give ERROR
print(my_tuple) # Output: (1, 2, 3)
List vs Tuple – Key Differences for GATE
| Feature | List | Tuple |
|---|---|---|
| Syntax | [] square bracket | () round bracket |
| Mutable? | Yes, Mutable | No, Immutable |
| Speed | Slower | Faster |
| Memory | More memory | Less memory |
| GATE Use | When data changes | When data fixed |
GATE Previous Year Questions
Q1. GATE CSE 2022 – Which is faster?
Q: List vs Tuple which has faster iteration?
Ans: Tuple is faster because it is immutable and stored in single memory block.
Q2. Output Question
a = [1, 2, 3]
b = a
b[0] = 10
print(a)
Ans: [10, 2, 3] Because list is mutable and b is reference of a.
Q3. Tuple trick
t = (1, 2, [3, 4])
t[2][0] = 10
print(t)
Ans: (1, 2, [10, 4]) -> List inside tuple CAN be changed. Important GATE trick!
Conclusion
For GATE exam, remember: List = Mutable, Tuple = Immutable, Tuple is Faster. This is asked in every year.
Next Post: Python Dictionary GATE PYQ 2022 with Solution.