The main difference between a laptop and a tablet lies in their design and functionality. Laptops typically have a built-in keyboard and in most cases, run full operating systems like Windows or macOS, allowing extensive multitasking and software capabilities. Tablets, on the other hand, are more portable and user-friendly, primarily designed for touch interaction and running mobile operating systems like iOS or Android. While tablets can support various applications, laptops generally provide a more versatile platform for professional tasks.