Feature	Electroplating	Electroforming
Definition	Electroplating involves depositing a metal layer on a substrate to improve appearance and resistance.	Electroforming builds up metal layers on a mold to create a part, which is later removed.
Process	Metal ions from a solution are reduced onto the substrate via an electric current.	Metal is deposited onto a mold, which is later removed, leaving a precise metal part.
Purpose	Primarily for decorative purposes and corrosion resistance.	Used for creating complex, high-precision metal parts and prototypes.
Applications	Jewelry, automotive parts, electronic components.	Medical devices, aerospace parts, precision engineering.
Materials Used	Typically uses metals like gold, silver, nickel.	Can use a range of metals including nickel, copper, and more.
Thickness of Coating	Usually thin layers, from micrometers to a few millimeters.	Can create thicker layers, from several millimeters to centimeters.
Accuracy	Generally less precise; used more for surface enhancement.	Highly precise; used for creating detailed and complex shapes.
Cost	Generally lower cost, suitable for large-scale production.	Higher cost, suitable for specialized and low-volume applications.
Environmental Impact	Can involve hazardous chemicals; proper waste management is needed.	Also involves chemicals but focuses on creating parts with less waste.
Advantages	Cost-effective, improves appearance and corrosion resistance.	High precision, capable of producing complex geometries.
Disadvantages	Limited to surface-level applications, less precise.	Expensive, requires precise mold design and handling.

Conclusion: Electroplating is ideal for enhancing surfaces and providing corrosion resistance, while electroforming is suited for creating detailed, high-precision metal parts.