Efficient Python Dictionary Merge: update(), ** Operator, dict() Constructor

Python dictionaries are useful for storing key-value pairs, and you can combine them using the update() method, the ** operator, or the dict() constructor. These are the three most popular ways to achieve this.

Table of contents

Combining Python dictionaries

Introducing a comprehensive range of methods for merging Python dictionaries. Whether you need to combine dictionaries for data manipulation or processing, there are various approaches to suit your specific requirements.

Update() Method

dict1 = {'a': 1, 'b': 2} 
dict2 = {'c': 3, 'd': 4} 

dict1.update(dict2) 
merged_dict = dict1
print(merged_dict)

Output

{'a': 1, 'b': 2, 'c': 3, 'd': 4}


** Process exited - Return Code: 0 **
Press Enter to exit terminal

Double ** asterisk Method

dict1 = {'a': 1, 'b': 2} 
dict2 = {'c': 3, 'd': 4} 

merged_dict = {**dict1, **dict2}
print(merged_dict)

Output

{'a': 1, 'b': 2, 'c': 3, 'd': 4}

** Process exited - Return Code: 0 **
Press Enter to exit terminal

Dict() Constructor Method

 
dict1 = {'a': 1, 'b': 2} 
dict2 = {'c': 3, 'd': 4} 

merged_dict = dict(dict1, **dict2)
print(merged_dict)

Output

{'a': 1, 'b': 2, 'c': 3, 'd': 4}


** Process exited - Return Code: 0 **
Press Enter to exit terminal

Conclusion

When making a decision, consider your needs and choose the method that aligns with your requirements. Evaluate options, advantages, and disadvantages to make an informed choice. Remember, what works for one person may not work for another, so choose what suits your needs and circumstances.