What is the difference between a debit card and a credit card?

A debit card and a credit card are both widely used payment methods, but they function differently. A debit card draws money directly from a user’s bank account to pay for goods or services, meaning the user can only spend the money available in their account. In contrast, a credit card allows users to borrow money up to a predetermined limit, and the balance is paid off over time, often with interest. While debit cards offer the convenience of using available funds without debt, credit cards provide the ability to make purchases on credit and can earn rewards, but they come with the risk of accumulating debt if not paid off in full.