Last Updated on February 27, 2026
rpy2 is an interface to R running embedded in a Python process.
The high-level interface in rpy2 is designed to facilitate the use of R by Python programmers. R objects are exposed as instances of Python-implemented classes, with R functions as bound methods to those objects in a number of cases.
When designing rpy2, attention was given to:
- render the use of the module simple from both a Python or R user’s perspective,
- minimize the need for knowledge about R, and the need for tricks and workarounds,
- allow to customize a lot while remaining at the Python level (without having to go down to C-level).
This is free and open source software.
Key Features
- C-level interface between Python and R.
- Provides 2 levels of interface with R: – low-level (rpy2.rinterface) – high-level (rpy2.robjects).
- R objects are exposed to Python without needing to replicate the data.
- Python’s NumPy arrays can be exposed to R without making a copy.
- In-place modification for vectors and arrays possible.
- R callback functions can be implemented in Python.
- Possible to have anonymous R objects with a Python label.
- Python pickling.
- Full customization of R’s behavior with its console.
Website: rpy2.github.io
Support: GitHub Code Repository
Developer: Laurent Gautier and contributors
License: GNU General Public License v2.0
rpy2 is written in Python. Learn Python with our recommended free books and free tutorials.
Related Software
| Access R from Python | |
|---|---|
| rpy2 | Interface to R running embedded in a Python process |
| pyRserve | Library for connecting Python to R |
| PypeR | Provides a lightweight interface to use R in Python by pipe. |
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