A debit card is linked directly to a checking account and is used to make purchases using the funds available in the account. When used, the funds are immediately deducted from the account balance.

A credit card is a type of loan that allows you to borrow money from a lender for purchases or cash advances. You are required to make payments on the loan, including interest and fees, and if you do not pay off the balance in full each month, you will be charged interest on the remaining amount. Credit cards do not use the funds available in a checking account, but rather extend a line of credit to the cardholder.