| Sr. No. | Potentiometer | Rheostat |
| 1. | A potentiometer is an instrument or component in electronics that is used to compare or measure the potential difference. | A rheostat is known as a variable resistor and is used to control current or vary the resistance of a circuit.
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| 2. | A potentiometer controls the voltage. | A rheostat controls the current. |
| 3. | A potentiometer is a resistor with 3 terminals and sliding contact with an adjustable voltage divider. | A rheostat is a variable resistor with two terminals.
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| 4. | A potentiometer is composed of resistive elements such as graphite, resistance wire, cermet, and carbon particles. | A rheostat is composed of various materials such as fluids, metal ribbons, and carbon disks. |
| 5. | A potentiometer has low power and is used for audio gadgets, television manipulates, and as a transducer. | A rheostat is used in high-power electronics and appliances such as mixers, fans, motors. |
| 6. | In any circuit, the potentiometer is connected in parallel. | The rheostat is connected in series with the circuit. |
| 7. | The potentiometer can be used as a rheostat. | A rheostat cannot be used as a potentiometer. |
| 8. | A potentiometer can divide voltage. | Rheostat cannot divide voltage. |
