The main difference between rockets and cakes lies in how they launch and display their effects:

• 🎇 Rockets are single-shot fireworks that shoot into the sky using a stick for stability. They explode at a high altitude and create big, impressive bursts — perfect for grand finales and large displays.
• 🎆 Cakes (also known as barrages) contain multiple tubes linked together. Once lit, they fire a series of shots one after another automatically, creating a continuous, choreographed display without needing to relight.

In short, rockets offer big single bursts, while cakes deliver multiple effects in one setup. Many people combine both for a more exciting and balanced firework show.