Cavalry vs. Infantry — What's the Difference?

Soldiers trained to fight on horseback.

Ground troops forming the core of an army.

Units prioritizing speed and quick engagements.

Soldiers trained to fight while on foot.

Military troops mounted on armored vehicles.

Military units specializing in frontline engagements.

Fast-moving military troops for reconnaissance or combat.

Foot soldiers equipped for various combat situations.

Historically, cavalry (from the French word cavalerie, itself derived from "cheval" meaning "horse") are soldiers or warriors who fight mounted on horseback. Cavalry were the most mobile of the combat arms, operating as light cavalry in the roles of reconnaissance, screening, and skirmishing in many armies, or as heavy cavalry for decisive shock attacks in other armies.

Infantry is an army specialization whose personnel engage in military combat on foot, distinguished from cavalry, artillery, and armored forces. Also known as foot soldiers, infantrymen or infanteer, infantry traditionally rely on traveling by foot between combats as well, but may also use mounts (mounted infantry), military vehicles (motorized, and mechanized infantry), watercraft (naval infantry), or aircraft (airborne infantry) for between-combat mobility and logistics.

(in the past) soldiers who fought on horseback

The branch of an army made up of units trained to fight on foot.

Troops trained to fight on horseback.

Soldiers armed and trained to fight on foot

A highly mobile army unit using vehicular transport, such as light armor and helicopters.

A unit, such as a regiment, of such soldiers

The military arm of service that fights while riding horses.

Soldiers who fight on foot (on land), as opposed to cavalry and other mounted units, regardless of external transport (e.g. airborne).

An individual unit of the cavalry arm of service.

(uncountable) The part of an army consisting of infantry soldiers, especially opposed to mounted and technical troops

The branch of the military transported by fast light vehicles, also known as mechanized cavalry.

A regiment of infantry

(figurative) Source of rescue, especially in an emergency.

A body of children.

That part of military force which serves on horseback.

A body of soldiers serving on foot; foot soldiers, in distinction from cavalry.

Troops trained to fight on horseback;

An army unit consisting of soldiers who fight on foot;

A highly mobile army unit

The backbone of a traditional army, engaging enemies directly.

The branch of the military using horses or vehicles.

Cavalry, due to its mounted nature, traditionally has greater mobility.

Historically, cavalry often held prestige due to the cost and skills associated with maintaining horses.

No, traditional horse-mounted cavalry is rare; modern cavalry often refers to armored vehicle units.

Infantry remains vital, offering flexibility, adaptability, and direct engagement capabilities.

Yes, infantry units can adapt to various warfare styles, including guerrilla tactics.

Primarily, infantry refers to foot soldiers, but they can be supported by light vehicles.

Modern tech has mechanized the cavalry and provided advanced support and weaponry to infantry, evolving their roles.

Traditionally, yes, but modern cavalry often refers to units on armored vehicles.

Yes, both cavalry and infantry have specialized training based on their roles and equipment.

Yes, many, like the Charge of the Light Brigade during the Crimean War.

Infantry is generally more versatile across diverse terrains, especially challenging ones.

Not necessarily; the size varies based on the army's structure and needs.

Yes, infantry can be transported using vehicles but primarily fights on foot.

Traditionally, the cavalry, due to its speed and mobility, was better suited for reconnaissance.

Most armies have distinctions, but the specifics vary based on the country's military structure and needs.