The core differences between carbon steel and stainless steel lie in their composition, properties, and applications. Carbon steel is an iron-carbon alloy with a carbon content of 0.02%-2.11%. It offers high strength and low cost, but is susceptible to rust. Stainless steel, which contains alloying elements such as chromium (≥10.5%), offers strong corrosion resistance and excellent ductility, but is more expensive.