What is the difference between a hair braid and a hair twist?

Hair braids and hair twists are produced by different distinct methods of interweaving. A braid is achieved by interlacing three or more strands of hair, and a twist is formed by dividing the hair into several sections, twisting strands of hair, then twining two twisted strands around one another.

Fashion expert Kweli Wright, writing for coco & crème, explains that the practical difference is that braids are bulkier than twists. As a result, the twists have the flexibility to be formed into many different hairstyles, whereas the braids are more limited. When it comes to removal, the twists are much easier to remove than the braids.