What's the difference between beard oil and beard balm?

Across the reviewers we read, beard oil is a lighter leave-in conditioner of carrier oils (argan, jojoba) used primarily to hydrate skin under the beard and soften hair. Beard balm adds beeswax and butters (shea, cocoa) for light hold, frizz control, and longer-lasting moisture, making it the more common pick for medium-to-long beards that need shaping.