What is the difference between a build and a release?

Build is the result of compiling a project from source code, containing executable files, libraries, resources. It is an intermediate version of the product for testing and internal needs. A build may contain bugs and errors.

Release is a version of the software product ready for release to end users. It has undergone full testing, bug fixing, and compliance with all requirements. The release is stable and intended for distribution.

Characteristic	Build	Release
Status	Intermediate version	Ready-to-distribute version
Purpose	Testing, internal needs	Release for end users
Stability	May be unstable, contain errors	Stable, verified
Availability	Internal use	Available to consumers
Versioning	Often has a build number or commit hash	Has an official version number (e.g., 1.0)