Reviewed by Aditya Kumar · Last reviewed 2026-03-25
**head(n)**: Returns first n rows as list of Row. head() without arg = first row. DataFrame API. **take(n)**: Same—list of Row. RDD origin. Both are actions. **Functionally**: Equivalent for DataFrames. Use either for small samples. **Why Care**: Both bring data to driver. On...
head(n): Returns first n rows as list of Row. head() without arg = first row. DataFrame API.
take(n): Same—list of Row. RDD origin. Both are actions.
Functionally: Equivalent for DataFrames. Use either for small samples.
Why Care: Both bring data to driver. On huge DF, use limit(n) in transformation to reduce data before action. Or df.limit(100).collect() for sampling.
Scalability Trade-offs: head(1000) on 1B rows = driver gets 1000; full scan. Limit in plan = pushdown possible.
Cost Implications: head/take on large DF = full scan. Limit first when possible.
Pro-Move: 'limit(n) in transform, then collect; enables pushdown.' Red Flag: head(1000000)—driver OOM.
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