Similarities

1. The core functions are the same: Their most fundamental function is to transmit electrical energy or electrical signals, and they are the "blood vessels and nerves" of the power system and information system.
2. The basic structure is the same: they are composed of conductors (such as copper, aluminum), insulation layers and possible protective layers, and follow the same basic principles of electromagnetism and conduction.
3. Belong to the same industry: They all belong to the "wire and cable manufacturing industry", and their production processes (drawing, stranding, insulation extrusion, etc.) and technical standard systems are of the same origin.
Differences
1. Different structures and complexity (the core difference)
Wire: The structure is relatively simple. Usually refers to only one conductor (single core) or several simple stranded conductors, wrapped with a layer of insulation. Its "external protection" requirements are lower.
Cable: complex structure. It can be understood as "bundled, enhanced protection of wires". It is made up of multiple insulated wire cores (two or more) twisted together. These wire cores will be wrapped together with a strong comprehensive sheath layer (such as PVC, armored steel strip), and sometimes there are fillers, shielding layers, etc. inside. Cable is a multi-layered, integrated system.
2.Different sizes and abilities
Wire: Usually the cross-sectional area of the conductor is small, the voltage level transmitted is low, and the carrying capacity is relatively limited.
Cable: The cross-sectional area of the conductor can be very large (such as hundreds of square millimeters), and it can be designed to transmit ultra-high voltage (such as 10kV, 110kV and above) and ultra-large current, and its carrying capacity far exceeds that of wires.
3. Different mechanical and protective properties
Wires: have weak mechanical strength and protection, and are generally not suitable for direct burial or use alone in complex and harsh environments.
Cable: Due to its strong outer sheath (especially armored cable), it has excellent tensile strength, compression resistance, impact resistance, moisture resistance, anti-corrosion and other properties. It is specially designed for complex environments such as direct burial, through pipes, tunnels, and underwater.
4. Different uses and installation scenarios
Wire: Mainly used for indoor end connections of fixed wiring. For example, in home decoration, wires are hidden in walls and threaded through conduits; the power cords that come with electrical appliances (such as rice cookers) are also wires. It usually needs to be protected and installed (such as through pipes, using wire ducts).
Cable: Mainly used for main power transmission, outdoor and complex environment laying. For example, underground cables from substations to residential areas, main power supply lines of buildings, cables used in mines, submarine cables, etc. It can often be self-supporting, self-protecting, and laid directly.
5. A vivid metaphor
If you compare the power transmission system to the water supply system:
Electrical wires are like the last piece of water pipe entering your home. They are simple structures and are distributed in every room.
Cables are like the main water supply pipes under the city. They are thick, strong and have multiple internal channels. They can withstand high pressure and resist soil and environmental erosion.