Bitcoin Cash and Bitcoin: Separate Networks, Different Designs
Bitcoin Cash (BCH) is a separate blockchain network that branched off from Bitcoin in 2017 and continues to operate with its own BCH asset. The primary focus of BCH is on peer-to-peer electronic payments.
One key difference between BCH and BTC lies in their approach to scaling network capacity. BCH prioritizes processing more transactions on the main chain, while BTC has developed its own capacity and application features over time. This divergence does not imply that one is inherently superior for all usage needs; rather, it reflects different design choices.
From a user perspective, the most notable difference lies in ensuring transfers occur on the correct network. Sending BTC to a service requesting BCH or vice versa will not result in a valid payment. Some older address formats may appear similar, but a wallet's acceptance of an address does not guarantee recognition by the receiving service.