Anaconda is an easy-to-install distribution that contains many many Python packages. It is not a virtual machine.
The Data Science Toolbox also contains Python and the most popular packages for doing data science. Besides that, it also contains R and, again, some great packages.
The main difference, though, is that the DST aims to be a platform where authors and teachers can create custom software and data bundles for their readers and students. (I have been thinking about creating a bundle that would install Anaconda on the DST.)
If you only need to use Python, then Anaconda may very well satisfy your needs. Good luck!
The Data Science Toolbox also contains Python and the most popular packages for doing data science. Besides that, it also contains R and, again, some great packages.
The main difference, though, is that the DST aims to be a platform where authors and teachers can create custom software and data bundles for their readers and students. (I have been thinking about creating a bundle that would install Anaconda on the DST.)
If you only need to use Python, then Anaconda may very well satisfy your needs. Good luck!