There are many software products, platforms, services and applications that compete to be part of the Data Scientist’s toolkit. There can be compelling reasons for the use of one tool over another (such as the suitability of the tool to the analysis required, ease of operation, the range of features offered, user’s device, tool interoperability or price) but often preferences can be about tool availability and familiarity.

The table below contains a selection of some commonly used Data Science software tools. I have included relevant details about the suppliers, how to access the products and their cost. While applications are available on multiple fixed and mobile devices the details below are oriented to desktop computer platforms using a Windows Operating System.

My personal preference for performing analysis is VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) in Microsoft Excel, as the tool with which I have greatest experience. Other tools are more highly tailored to specific analytical tasks.

Suppliers can offer product Variants which represent upgraded editions, offer different functionality and capabilities, or are tailored to specific markets (e.g. students, businesses). In some cases vendors offer incremental modules which are purchasable. Where relevant, I have attempted to identify the entry level versions that would provide users new to the product with a means of trialling and comparing Data Science tools with minimal outlay.

Details correct as at May-2017