Difference Between Wallets and Billfolds

Both wallet and billfold are actually used for the same purpose as they serve to carry all your important documents like credit cards, debit cards, driver’s license, check books, cash etc. Both these terms that are used to denote the similar meaning are used interchangeably and offers the same function. The only difference is that the term billfold which is considered the short form for bill folder came to be used by people long after the term wallet was introduced. Though both of them address the same needs, they are used as synonyms for each other.

A billfold is a kind of leather wallet that is used to hold all the important documents in it without folding or wrinkling them. Most of the people, especially men are in the habit of carrying so many cards and important bank papers, bills and receipts with them in the wallet. Thus, the shape and functionality of the modern wallets have changed to a more comfortable one that can accommodate all their important personal documents without messing together. But earlier, wallets were seen as small cloth or leather bags that could hold all the items in them securely when traveling. Thus, even though the form and design has changed with time, the purposes for both wallet and billfold remain the same. Thus, there is no major difference to distinguish between them.

Billfold is also found as a pocket sized folding material that comes with several separate compartments and slots for carrying things like cash, photos, and even change. On the other hand, wallets are found as plastic or leather bags that are designed with pockets and slots for carrying similar items in the pockets or in a purse. They are available in different shapes, sizes and designs to be picked according to your needs and taste. If you have so many cards and important documents to be carried every day, you should look for a wallet that can hold all of them securely without messing together. Wallets for men and women come in different designs suited for them. Today, with the increasing threat for pick pocketing and identity theft issues, people are opting for electronic wallets that can detect its right owner and cannot be used by any others.