If you're working for personal gain, you're probably better off with the Python+ solution because it's a) cheaper, and b) translates into knowledge that can be

If you're working for personal gain, you're probably better off with the Python+ solution because it's a) cheaper, and b) translates into knowledge that can be harnessed in other applications you write in Python. You're probably unlikely to write a real application in Matlab. If you're going to be doing work at a university, you may find reluctance from the persons you are working with as I did a few years back. The argument you'll likely get is that when you pay for Matlab, you pay for the assurance that the implementation of the tools provided is correct and therefore your research is based on a proven foundation. I saw the argument, agreed, but disagreed in the logic presented that those contributing to Python+numpy+scipy+matplotlib didn't have a vested interest in those tools also being completely correct. Afterall, I hear NASA is using some of this stuff...