Hey there, let's work through this issue together! The error you're seeing gives clear clues, so let's break down why it's happening and how to fix it step by step.

Why This Error Happens #

The key line in your error log is:

RuntimeError: Python version 2.7 or >= 3.4 required.

This points to two main issues:

1. The Numpy version pip is trying to install (1.12.1) requires Python 2.7 or Python 3.4+, but your current Python version doesn't meet this requirement.
2. Your pip (9.0.1) and setuptools (28.8.0) are severely outdated—old versions often struggle with modern package dependency checks and may misinterpret version constraints.

Step-by-Step Solutions #

1. First, Confirm Your Python Version #

Run this command in your terminal to check exactly which Python version your tools are using:

python --version
# If you use Python 3 specifically, try:
python3 --version

If the output shows a version older than 3.4 (like 3.3 or earlier), that's the core problem.

2. Option A: Upgrade Python (Recommended Long-Term Fix) #

The best solution is to upgrade Python to a supported version (3.7 or newer is ideal, since even 3.4 is end-of-life now). Once you've installed the newer Python:

• Install Numpy again with the updated environment:

  pip install numpy
  # Or use this to ensure you're using the new Python's pip:
  python3 -m pip install numpy
  

3. Option B: Upgrade Pip & Setuptools First (If Python Version Is Compatible) #

If your Python is already 2.7 or >=3.4, the issue is likely your outdated tools. Upgrade them first:

python -m pip install --upgrade pip setuptools
# For Python 3:
python3 -m pip install --upgrade pip setuptools

Then try installing Numpy again.

4. Option C: Install a Numpy Version That Works With Your Old Python #

If you can't upgrade Python right now, you need to pick an older Numpy version that supports your Python:

• For Python 3.3: Install Numpy 1.11.x (the last version to support 3.3)

  pip install numpy==1.11.3
  

• For Python 2.6: Look for Numpy 1.9.x or earlier (though Python 2.6 is extremely outdated—upgrading is strongly recommended)

5. Double-Check Your PyCharm Interpreter #

Since you're using PyCharm, make sure your project is using the correct Python version:

• Go to File > Settings > Project: [Your Project] > Python Interpreter
• Confirm the selected interpreter matches the version you checked earlier (or your upgraded version)
• If needed, add a new interpreter pointing to your updated Python installation

内容的提问来源于stack exchange，提问作者Chathu