What distinguishes a circuit breaker from a fuse?

The distinguishing feature of a circuit breaker compared to a fuse is that circuit breakers can be reset and reused after they trip. When a circuit breaker detects an overload or short circuit, it interrupts the flow of electricity and can be easily reset to restore power without needing to replace any components. This makes circuit breakers convenient for ongoing electrical management and maintenance.

In contrast, fuses provide overcurrent protection by melting the wire inside them when an overload occurs. Once a fuse blows, it must be replaced to restore power, making it less convenient for repetitive use. This core functionality of circuit breakers being resettable is what primarily sets them apart from fuses, making them the more modern and user-friendly option for circuit protection in many applications.