How to zip two lists in Python

In this tutorial, we will show you how to zip two lists using Python

Updated March 29, 2023

Hello and welcome to this beginner’s tutorial on how to zip two lists in Python. The zip() function in Python is used to combine two or more iterable objects, like lists, tuples, or strings. In this tutorial, we will show you how to zip two lists using Python.

Method 1: Using the zip() Function

The simplest way to zip two lists is to use the built-in zip() function in Python. Here’s an example:

# Using the zip() function
list1 = ['apple', 'banana', 'orange']
list2 = [1, 2, 3]

zipped_lists = zip(list1, list2)

print(list(zipped_lists))

In this code, we create two lists list1 and list2. We then use the zip() function to combine the two lists into a single iterable object zipped_lists. Finally, we convert zipped_lists to a list using the list() function and print the result.

Method 2: Using a List Comprehension

Another way to zip two lists is to use a list comprehension. Here’s an example:

# Using a list comprehension
list1 = ['apple', 'banana', 'orange']
list2 = [1, 2, 3]

zipped_lists = [(x, y) for x, y in zip(list1, list2)]

print(zipped_lists)

In this code, we create two lists list1 and list2. We then use a list comprehension to combine the two lists into a single list of tuples zipped_lists. Finally, we print the result.

Method 3: Using the map() Function

If you want to apply a function to the zipped lists, you can use the map() function in combination with the zip() function. Here’s an example:

# Using the map() function
list1 = ['apple', 'banana', 'orange']
list2 = [1, 2, 3]

zipped_lists = list(map(lambda x, y: (x, y), list1, list2))

print(zipped_lists)

In this code, we create two lists list1 and list2. We then use the map() function in combination with a lambda function to combine the two lists into a single list of tuples zipped_lists. Finally, we print the result.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, we have shown you three different methods to zip two lists in Python. We have covered using the zip() function, a list comprehension, and the map() function.

Remember that the zip() function is the simplest way to combine two lists, while the list comprehension and map() function allow you to apply a function to the zipped lists. Use the method that suits your needs and the context in which you’re working.

Keep practicing and have fun with Python programming!

Hey! Do you love Python? Want to learn more about it?
Let's connect on Twitter or LinkedIn. I talk about this stuff all the time!