Pretty graphs and charts in Python [closed]

Answer 1

You didn't mention what output format you need but reportlab is good at creating charts both in pdf and bitmap (e.g. png) format.

Here is a simple example of a barchart in png and pdf format:

from reportlab.graphics.shapes import Drawing
from reportlab.graphics.charts.barcharts import VerticalBarChart

d = Drawing(300, 200)

chart = VerticalBarChart()
chart.width = 260
chart.height = 160
chart.x = 20
chart.y = 20
chart.data = [[1,2], [3,4]]
chart.categoryAxis.categoryNames = ['foo', 'bar']
chart.valueAxis.valueMin = 0

d.add(chart)
d.save(fnRoot='test', formats=['png', 'pdf'])

alt text http://i40.tinypic.com/2j677tl.jpg

Note: the image has been converted to jpg by the image host.

Answer 2

You could also consider google charts.

Not technically a python API, but you can use it from python, it's reasonably fast to code for, and the results tend to look nice. If you happen to be using your plots online, then this would be an even better solution.

Answer 3

If you like to use gnuplot for plotting, you should consider Gnuplot.py. It provides an object-oriented interface to gnuplot, and also allows you to pass commands directly to gnuplot. Unfortunately, it is no longer being actively developed.