101 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Great Ideas for Essays

  • Teaching Resources
  • An Introduction to Teaching
  • Tips & Strategies
  • Policies & Discipline
  • Community Involvement
  • School Administration
  • Technology in the Classroom
  • Teaching Adult Learners
  • Issues In Education
  • Becoming A Teacher
  • Assessments & Tests
  • Elementary Education
  • Secondary Education
  • Special Education
  • Homeschooling
  • M.Ed., Curriculum and Instruction, University of Florida
  • B.A., History, University of Florida

Compare and contrast essays are taught in school for many reasons. For one thing, they are relatively easy to teach, understand, and format. Students can typically understand the structure with just a short amount of instruction. In addition, these essays allow students develop critical thinking skills to approach a variety of topics.

Brainstorming Tip

One fun way to get students started brainstorming their compare and contrast essays is to create a Venn diagram , where the overlapping sections of the circle contain similarities and the non-overlapping areas contain the differing traits.

Following is a list of 101 topics for compare and contrast essays that you are welcome to use in your classroom. As you look through the list you will see that some items are academic in nature while others are included for interest-building and fun writing activities.

  • Apple vs. Microsoft
  • Coke vs. Pepsi
  • Renaissance Art vs. Baroque Art
  • Antebellum Era vs. Reconstruction Era in American History
  • Childhood vs. Adulthood
  • Star Wars vs. Star Trek
  • Biology vs. Chemistry
  • Astrology vs. Astronomy
  • American Government vs. British Government (or any world government)
  • Fruits vs. Vegetables
  • Dogs vs. Cats
  • Ego vs. Superego
  • Christianity vs. Judaism (or any world religion )
  • Republican vs. Democrat
  • Monarchy vs. Presidency
  • US President vs. UK Prime Minister
  • Jazz vs. Classical Music
  • Red vs. White (or any two colors)
  • Soccer vs. Football
  • North vs. South Before the Civil War
  • New England Colonies vs. Middle Colonies OR vs. Southern Colonies
  • Cash vs. Credit Cards
  • Sam vs. Frodo Baggins
  • Gandalf vs. Dumbledore
  • Fred vs. Shaggy
  • Rap vs. Pop
  • Articles of Confederation vs. U.S. Constitution
  • Henry VIII vs. King Louis XIV
  • Stocks vs. Bonds
  • Monopolies vs. Oligopolies
  • Communism vs. Capitalism
  • Socialism vs. Capitalism
  • Diesel vs. Petroleum
  • Nuclear Power vs. Solar Power
  • Saltwater Fish vs. Freshwater Fish
  • Squids vs. Octopus
  • Mammals vs. Reptiles
  • Baleen vs. Toothed Whales
  • Seals vs. Sea Lions
  • Crocodiles vs. Alligators
  • Bats vs. Birds
  • Oven vs. Microwave
  • Greek vs. Roman Mythology
  • Chinese vs. Japanese
  • Comedy vs. Drama
  • Renting vs. Owning
  • Mozart vs. Beethoven
  • Online vs. Traditional Education
  • North vs. South Pole
  • Watercolor vs. Oil
  • 1984 vs. Fahrenheit 451
  • Emily Dickinson vs. Samuel Taylor Coleridge
  • W.E.B. DuBois vs. Booker T. Washington
  • Strawberries vs. Apples
  • Airplanes vs. Helicopters
  • Hitler vs. Napoleon
  • Roman Empire vs. British Empire
  • Paper vs. Plastic
  • Italy vs. Spain
  • Baseball vs. Cricket
  • Jefferson vs. Adams
  • Thoroughbreds vs. Clydesdales
  • Spiders vs. Scorpions
  • Northern Hemisphere vs. Southern Hemisphere
  • Hobbes vs. Locke
  • Friends vs. Family
  • Dried Fruit vs. Fresh
  • Porcelain vs. Glass
  • Modern Dance vs. Ballroom Dancing
  • American Idol vs. The Voice
  • Reality TV vs. Sitcoms
  • Picard vs. Kirk
  • Books vs. Movies
  • Magazines vs. Comic Books
  • Antique vs. New
  • Public vs. Private Transportation
  • Email vs. Letters
  • Facebook vs. Twitter
  • Coffee vs. an Energy Drink
  • Toads vs. Frogs
  • Profit vs. Non-Profit
  • Boys vs. Girls
  • Birds vs. Dinosaurs
  • High School vs. College
  • Chamberlain vs. Churchill
  • Offense vs. Defense
  • Jordan vs. Bryant
  • Harry vs. Draco
  • Roses vs. Carnations
  • Poetry vs. Prose
  • Fiction vs. Nonfiction
  • Lions vs. Tigers
  • Vampires vs. Werewolves
  • Lollipops vs. popsicles
  • Summer vs. Winter
  • Recycling vs. Landfill
  • Motorcycle vs. Bicycle
  • Halogen vs. Incandescent
  • Newton vs. Einstein
  • . Go on vacation vs. Staycation
  • Rock vs. Scissors
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127 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

13 December, 2020

13 minutes read

Author:  Elizabeth Brown

Crafting a compare and contrast essay is typically much more interesting and fun than working on a dissertation. With this piece of writing, a student gets his chance to be creative. Besides, one doesn’t have to re-invent the bicycle: these essays already have a purpose and a topic. All you have to do is find similarities or differences between specific notions. And yes, there is one more problem to it.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Half of the success of a compare and contrast essay lies in a properly-chosen topic. Now, this can be tricky.

Just think about it: would want to read a piece on a beaten topic like “Books vs. Television”? Or would you rather give a read to an unusual compare and contrast Korean and Vietnam war essay? While you know everything about the first one, the second topic actually sounds interesting.

Choosing compare and contrast essay topics can be time-consuming and daunting. However, with the guide our  essay writer prepared, you will find a great title with no problem.

By the way, if you need a reminder of what such writing looks like and what components it consists of, don’t hesitate to read our guide on  how to write a compare and contrast essay . It will help you structure and organize your knowledge in this regard.

And here is a short introduction to what this type of academic writing should really look like.

How to write a compare and contrast essay

Depending on the task you received from your tutor, in this particular academic paper you are either to compare several things or notions or contrast them.

how to write a compare and contrast essay outline

Here is what a structure of this type of writing looks like:

  • An engaging opening with a “hook.”
  • A thesis statement that explains what is the focus of your writing and whether you’ll be comparing or contrasting the notions.
  • If you don’t know  how to write a thesis statement , here is a guide that will explain you all the details step by step.
  • An argument #1 that supports the thesis statement.
  • Evidence proving the author’s position.
  • A short conclusion.
  • A short reminder of a problem described in the essay.
  • A brief overview of the similarities or differences (aka supporting arguments).
  • A call to action or a interesting question to the audience.

Any A-grade essay would follow this structure. Thus, if you aim to receive better grades, consider taking this structure into account.

Meanwhile, as a student you get tons of other writing assignments. If you’re currently struggling with choosing good  argumentative essay topics , don’t hesitate to take a look at our recent guide!

Finally, let’s dive into the search. After all, this is a key to crafting an excellent piece.

What makes good compare and contrast essay topics

Several factors make some topics your best option compared to the rest.

No matter how great the topic of your choice is, the target audience can sense when you genuinely care about what you are writing, and when you’re simply following the structure with no personal interest in the subject. If you write yawning and find it hard to find any evidence to support your position, chances are you’ve chosen a wrong topic. A compare and contrast dog and cat essay might be a good topic for a person deeply loving these furry little creatures. But someone not that much into domestic animals won’t be able to write a single line of an essay comparing dogs and cats. So, choose your topic wisely.

Availability of trusted sources.

In some cases, you have to use trusted sources to prove your point. Otherwise, your position might seem biased and subjective. That is why we strongly recommend you to check whether the compare and contrast essay titles you opted can be supported by evidence found at the trusted sources.

Recommendation of a tutor.

Last but not least, ask for recommendations. With years of experience under his belt, your tutor might have an eye for great topics. So, why not using his experience for your own good? Besides, apart from good topics suggestions, he can also provide you with great sources to explore. So, don’t lose an opportunity to make your life easier with his assistance!

Proper formatting style.

Proper formatting is hard to overestimate when it comes to A-grade essay writing. A great deal of your grade depends on it. That is why we recommend you to check out our  essay format guide to figure out what your piece should look like.

These are the criteria that help you pick a good theme for your paper. But where should you look for theme to choose from in the first place? We know the answer.

If you aren’t sure you have the time and energy to craft a piece yourself, we’re here to help.  Handmade Writing is a reliable place to order your academic papers from.

Sources of interesting topics

Basically, there are six sources students can go to these days:

  • Social media.
  • Scientific journals.

Each one of them is filled with personalities, facts, events, and locations to contrast and compare. Therefore, don’t hesitate to explore these right sources.

By the way, if you are looking for ideas or inspiration on  how to write a scholarship essay , we’ve got something for you. We’ve gathered a guide that will walk you step by step through the process of composing a good essay that’ll get you college scholarship!

compare contrast essay topics

Easy compare and contrast essay topics for college students

  • High school vs college.
  • McDonalds and Burger King: Explain how these two fast food chains similar or different from each other.
  • Public schools and homeschooling: Which do you prefer?
  • Basketball and football: Popularity, speed of play, dependency on athleticism, personal preference, etc.
  • Lamborgini vs. Bugatti.
  • Virtual vs. Augmented reality: Which technology is the future?
  • Star Wars vs. Star Trek: Which is better?
  • Communism vs. Socialism: The good, the bad, and the ugly.
  • American English vs British English.
  • Conventional or E-learning: What would you choose?
  • Computer and video games: Which is more fun?
  • Inner beauty and outer beauty.
  • Snapchat and Instagram: What makes them similar (different)?
  • Stalin or Hitler: Which is a bigger evil? Or what in their management style was similar?
  • Living in the big city or living in the country: What would you choose?
  • Italian vs. Spanish cuisines.
  • Active vacation in the mountains vs. passive rest by the sea.
  • Facebook vs. Twitter.
  • Windows vs. Linux.
  • Android or iOS: Which is the future?

Funny compare and contrast essay topics

  • Chandler, Joey and Ross: Which one of them is cooler?
  • Pizza or pasta: If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, which of these would you choose?
  • Batman vs. SuperMan;  Avengers vs. Justice League.
  • Soccer vs football: How are they different apart from their name?
  • Iron Man or Hulk: Which one is the best superhero of his time?
  • Michael Jackson vs. Elvis Presley.
  • George and Lennie.
  • Harry Potter vs. Ronald Weasley: One is way cooler than the other.
  • Simpsons or the South Park?
  • Eternal summer or eternal winter: Which is the least of all evil?

Historical topics

  • WW1 and WW2: Reasons, participants, number of dead and wounded, etc.
  • Renaissance and Barocco.
  • Roman and Greek mythology.
  • Crusaders vs. Saracens.
  • The European economics before and after WW2.
  • Abolition of slavery in the USA and Europe.
  • Japanese and European feudalism essay.
  • Gender roles in the Roman Empire vs Ottoman Empire.
  • British colonization and Spanish colonization.
  • Lincoln and Kennedy.
  • Reconstruction in America against the Industrial Age.
  • Mongolian Empire and Persian Empire.
  • Monaco vs Luxembourg: Countries’ history comparison.
  • Worker unions history in the USA vs. Great Britain.
  • Julius Caesar or Alexander the Great.

Compare and contrast essay between two jobs

  • Marketer vs. Digital Marketer.
  • Anthropologist vs. Philosopher vs. Psychologist
  • Software Engineer vs. Software Architect.
  • Film producer and a Film Director.
  • Working from home and working at an office.
  • Linguist and a Grammarian.
  • Developer or a Coder?
  • QA Specialist or a Test Engineer.
  • Dean or a Principal.
  • Accountant vs. Economist.
  • Journalist vs. Reporter.
  • Recruiter vs. HR Generalist.
  • Copywriter vs. Content Marketer.

Compare and contrast essay between two cultures

  • Egypt and Mesopotamia compare and contrast essay
  • Modern European and American culture.
  • Urbanism and ruralism.
  • Vegetarianism vs. pescetarianism.
  • Compare and contrast Mexico and United States essay.
  • Emo culture and gothic.
  • Compare and contrast Sparta and Athens essay.
  • Bookworms vs. Film Buffs.
  • Culture and ethnicity.
  • Christianity, Islam and Judaism essay.

Interesting topics about literature

  • Bible vs. Quran.
  • 1984 vs. Fahrenheit 451.
  • Chronicles of Narnia: Film or the book series?
  • The Great Gatsby vs. The Catcher in the Rye.
  • Fiction against non-fiction.
  • Divine Comedy vs. Paradise Lost.
  • Lord of the Rings: The book against the latest film production?
  • Expository and Persuasive writing.
  • Harry Potter vs. Lord of the Rings.
  • Anne Frank’s Diary vs. I am Malala.
  • Classic poetry against the modern one.
  • Paper books against the e-books: The never-ending battle.
  • Anne of Green Gables vs. Pollyanna.
  • Pride and Prejudice vs. Bridget Jones’ Diary.
  • Bronte sisters vs. Jane Austen.
  • Drama and Comedy.
  • To Kill a Mockingbird or The Help.
  • Little Women vs. Little Men.
  • Poetry and prose: What makes them different?

Topics related to movies and cinematography

  • Wolf of Wall Street vs. Great Gatsby.
  • Main differences between European and American films.
  • Horror films and thrillers.
  • House M.D. against Grey’s Anatomy.
  • Sherlock Holmes: The old series or the new episodes?
  • Polyanna: Which is better – a film or the book?
  • Japanese horror films vs. American.
  • Home Alone 1 vs. Home Alone 4.
  • The Wizard of Oz against Gone With the Wind.
  • The Sound of Music vs. Mary Poppins.
  • Beverly Hills, 90210 or Melrose Place.
  • Friends vs. The Office.
  • Charlie Chaplin and Mr. Bean.
  • The Pianist or Schindler’s List.
  • Romeo and Juliet: 1968, 1996, and 2013 productions.
  • Forrest Gump or The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.
  • 300 or Gladiator.
  • Lord of the Rings: extended edition vs. director’s cut.
  • Ben-Hur (1959) vs. Ben-Hur (2016).
  • Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014) and Prince of Egypt.
  • Dunkirk vs. Saving Private Ryan.
  • The Green Mile vs. The Shawshank Redemption.
  • Les Miserables (2012) vs. The Greatest Showman.

Music and arts-related topics

  • Beyonce vs. Rihanna.
  • Whitney Houston against Adele.
  • Britney Spears against Madonna.
  • Mona Lisa vs. Girl with a Pearl Earring.
  • Van Gogh against Picasso.
  • Impressionism against Expressionism.
  • Opera and ballet.
  • Spotify or Deezer.
  • Records or Live concerts.
  • Jazz or classical music.
  • Musical theatre vs. Play with music.
  • Renaissance and Enlightenment epochs in arts.
  • African vs. Asian art.
  • Rock music of the XX century vs. today.
  • Religious hymns and secular songs about Christmas.
  • Music people listened to in their twenties in the XX century and now.
  • Protagonist of the modern pop music culture and that of the 1960s.

We guarantee that you can easily find a good title among the ones we suggested. If you find it hard to compose a good compare and contrast essay even after choosing one of our topics, don’t hesitate to us a line asking for help.

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50 College-Level Compare and Contrast Topics for an Essay

Compare and contrast essays are common college assignments that test your critical thinking skills as well as your essay writing. The task may seem daunting, but don’t panic – I am here to help with any possible hurdles:

  • Getting started: what does compare and contrast actually mean?
  • Good compare and contrast essay topics: what should I write about?
  • Making your case: how should I write in the essay introduction and body paragraphs?

Follow this simple guide to write a successful compare and contrast essay!

What Does Compare and Contrast Mean?

Very simply, to compare and contrast is to consider two (or more) things and observe what is similar about those things and what is different about them. Think of it this way: to compare is to find the qualities, attributes, etc, that are the same and to contrast is to find the ways in which they differ. In a compare and contrast essay, you write about and analyze the observations you have made.

For example, let’s compare and contrast a penguin and a pigeon. When we compare the two, we can observe that both are birds, both have feathers, both have beaks, and both lay eggs. They are different in that pigeons can fly and penguins cannot, penguins are excellent swimmers and pigeons are not, and they both live in very different climates. Those are the contrasts. In an essay, we’d then go on to discuss those observations in detail.

Compare and Contrast Essay Ideas

Writing a good essay largely depends on what you choose to write about, as you need to find two comparable subjects – people, books, traditions, phenomena, etc. Here are some ideas, grouped by subject, to help get you started!

Ideas for a Compare and Contrast Essay

Sociological Change 

1. Family life now and 100 years ago (consider the age people enter the marriage, attitude to sex life before marriage, attitude to and prevalence of divorce, the prevalence of married women in labor, child-rearing practices, etc.) 

2. Environmental impact of humanity now and 100 years ago

3. Awareness of personal footprint and striving for sustainability in society over the last two decades (go beyond sorting of the waste; consider the impact of the rising awareness on the fur industry, the reluctance of the young generation to work in oil companies, refusing from meat due having overpopulation reasons in mind, etc.)

4. Portrayal of women in advertisements of mid-20s century vs now

5. Common jobs in the 18th century and today

6. Funerals in the past and today

7. Important holidays in the past and today

8. Voting rights in the past and today

9. Immigration to the U.S. in the past and today (compare and contrast the reasons for immigration, its prevalence, requirements of the state, etc.) 

10. Communism versus libertarianism

11. The role of religion in creating legislation in different countries/cultures 

12. Socializing in the past and now

13. Offline vs online business in 2021   

14. The use of robotics now vs 10 years ago

15. The 2020s in the fantastic movies and prediction of the past vs “the future” as it is now

16. NASA vs SpaceX

Related : Sociology Research Topics

Things to Compare and Contrast

Education 

1. Public vs private education  

2. Traditional school vs homeschooling

3. Online vs offline education

4. Old vs new methods of teaching

5. Accessibility of higher education in the last two decades (consider what barriers have been tackled; have the rising student debt and Covid become the new barriers to consider?) 

6. School curriculum change over the last two decades (what has changed, what is no longer taught, what new classes and teaching methods appeared; note the increased focus on STEM, sustainability, disappearing cursive classes, sex education, etc.)    

Related : Argumentative Essay Topics on Education  

1. Healthcare systems in America and elsewhere in the world (this is a helpful article to start with)

2. Cloning vs gene modification

3. Healthy living over the last decade/ in different socio-economic groups (compare the attitudes to healthy food, Macdonalds, smoking, binge drinking, exercising, etc. now and twenty years ago; alternatively, compare and contrast the statistics for the affluent and poor citizens)

4. Abortion laws in the U.S. and other countries (this is a useful article to start with)

5. Traditional doctor appointments vs telemedicine

6. How is depression diagnosed and treated now compared to the past decades (you may also consider the change in the treatment of other illnesses and conditions that are believed to be medicalized, such as obesity, alcoholism, menopause, etc.)  

7. Traditional medicine vs. homeopathy

8. Covid-19 vs Spanish flu epidemics  

9. The response to Covid-19 in two different states (see this post for more Covid-related essay topics and facts)   

10. Aguments for and against mandadory vacination   

11. Nursing home care vs assisted living  

Related : Controversial Medical Topics for an Essay

Philosophy and Ethics

1. Compare and compare two Abrahamic religions. 

2. Plato versus Aristotle.

3. Utilitarian ethics versus deontological ethics. 

4. The influence of philosophy historically compared to today.

5. Interpretations of philosophical texts in different cultures/countries.

6. Pro-life vs pro-choice arguments in the abortion debate (if you struggle to find similarities other than relating to one topic, consider what these arguments fail to account for; for example, both have men out of the equation, see more ideas for an abortion essay here ). 

7. Work ethics vs personal ethics. 

8. Compare and contrast two leadership theories. 

9. Compare and contrast liberal and radical feminism (the other two types of feminism that can be compared are equality feminism and difference feminism). 

10. Patriotism versus nationalism/ cosmopolitanism (see this guide on writing a patriotism essay )

Related : Philosophy and Ethics Essay Topics

good topics for compare contrast essay

Art and Literature 

1. art by the same artist at different points in their career (for example, Picasso’s The Old Fisherman and Le Matador ).

2. art depicting the same subject in very different styles (for example, a park by in Pointillist style and another in Cubist style).

3. the work of two artists working in the same time/place (for example, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simoni).

4. the reception of an artists’ work during their lifetime compared to today; attitudes towards art and artists in different cultures.

5. Two pieces of work by the same writer at different times in their life (for example, A Streetcar Named Desire and Sweet Bird of Youth by Tenessee Williams).

6. Novels written at the same time portraying the same place (for example, Great Expectations by Charles Dickens and Jane Austen’s Emma )

7. Work by poets regarded as part of the same movement (for example, Keats and Coleridge of the Romantics)

8. Exploration of the same theme (for example, the portrayal of ‘good versus evil’ in Lord of the Rings and Alice in Wonderland )

How to Write a Compare and Contrast Essay 

Chosen your topic? Okay, good! Let’s think about actually writing the essay. 

Introduction

An introduction is an opportunity to set expectations for the rest of the work – so let’s set them high! It’s important to begin the essay with a hook that will draw in your reader. Then, introduce the two (or more) things you will be discussing. Briefly outline the similarities and differences you will discuss. Lastly, clearly state your thesis . 

Here’s an example of an introduction to an essay comparing and contrasting traditional television and online streaming services:

Almost half of Americans born after the year 1978 do not own a television ( hook ). Young people seem to have fallen out of love with television in just a few short decades; in the year 2000, most Americans watched their television set for at least two hours a day . But why have we abandoned this once-loved pastime? The answer is simple: online streaming services (both things have been introduced ). In its heyday, television was extremely popular among young people, as streaming services are now. Both provide entertainment, show a wide range of media of different genres, inform us about what’s going on in the world around us and connect us as a society ( outline of similarities). However, there are several differences between the two. Television lacks the diversity of modern streaming services, viewers are forced to watch programs curated by the channel, and there is far less freedom of choice. That said, less time in front of the television means less time watching the news and less community spirit. Streaming services can also be expensive ( outline of differences). It would, however, seem that modern streaming services are overall superior to good, old-fashioned TV ( thesis statement ).

For more help on writing introductions, check out Essay Introduction Paragraph: Essential Elements and Examples .

Thesis Statement

Here are top rules for creating a strong thesis statement for a compare and contrast essay:

  • Relevant to the type of essay you’re writing. In an essay where we’re going to compare two things, the thesis statement should compare two things!
  • Debatable. Show that you’ve come to your own conclusion about something and are sharing your findings. “Cake is delicious” would not, for example, be a successful thesis statement.
  • Narrow. Make sure you haven’t bitten off more than you can chew with a thesis statement covering an enormous topic. 
  • Well-structured. A parallel structure will make a long thesis statement easier to read and understand.

For more help on thesis statements, take a look at A Strong Thesis Statement: Tips and Examples .

good topics for compare contrast essay

In the first paragraph after your introduction, provide some context for your essay. Why are you writing about this? Why now? For the example given above, you can further back up the introductory statement with some statistics , showing that you have done your research about the subject. For example, compare the number of TV sets bought in 2000 compared to 2020, or show the fall in live viewing ratings for popular programs. For streaming services, you might mention how many people subscribe to Netflix or Hulu, or how much money streaming sites are making. Make sure you cite any sources you use properly, for maximum marks!

Next, discuss the similarities between the two things you are discussing. How long this section will depend on how similar your subjects are! For some topics, you can have a fairly long section on similarities. However, if you were writing about radically different political systems, points of view, or works of art, then your comparison section may be shorter.

Discuss the differences in the order you’ve outlined them in the introduction. Make sure the similar and different points are contributing to your thesis. For example, if I were to argue that there are too many cartoons on Netflix and too many soaps on mainstream TV, that wouldn’t contribute to my argument. However, if you were to argue that television can offer live updates on current affairs, in a way that Hulu does not, that would contribute to an argument about which one is, overall, superior.

Other Writing Tips

Choose the right topic: Before you get started, you might find it helpful to make a list of all the similarities and differences between the things you are comparing. Make sure there are enough similarities to make your argument seem sensible. For example, pop music and classical music are both music genres but, beyond that, there’s no real reason to compare them. However, if you compare something like family life in the past and now, there are lots of things you can discuss in your essay and this leads to larger inferences about the social change that has taken place. 

Do your research: Research the topic you will discuss as much as possible and be prepared to discuss the positive aspects of both things you are comparing. In the long run, this will actually make your argument stronger.

What would you compare and contrast if you could write about anything? Share your idea in the comments!

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Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Compare and contrast essays are some of the most interesting assignments and students (well, some) enjoy writing them. This is because unlike most kinds of essays, it is hardly possible to get writer's block when you are handling these. You are given the freedom to not only pick compare and contrast topics on your own, but you have the freedom to choose the side of your support as well as how to contrast it.

However, the fact that you are given all this freedom does not mean that this is the simplest essay to write. The biggest challenge is usually in picking the best topic for you and this can be quite a huge issue if you are not careful in what you are doing. Let's see compare and contrast essay topics ideas as well as brief strategies you can use in your writing.

Tips On How To Write Superb Compare And Contrast Essays

The first thing that you need to do before you start writing is to choose an appropriate topic to write about. This should essentially be a topic of interest to you or something that you can discuss in length without any problem whatsoever. Lucky for you, there are so many topics you could focus on when writing and it is all up to you to determine the exact topic that you want to build on.

In most cases, the topics you choose should be closely related. For example if you chose to go with sports, choose two contrasting topics that are in the same category such as soccer vs basketball. You should steer clear of choosing topics that do not have any kind of relationship whatsoever such as pasta vs winter. This will be difficult to compare as they do not have any similarities and are basically worlds apart.

However, there is an exception of really good art students who can pull off contrasting two things that are completely different or discussing certain topics from an artistic point of view. For example one may choose a topic such as, life in the shoes of a werewolf. You see that it is an unusual topic that may be quite difficult to imagine or explain, but some students may just turn that topic into a masterpiece.

Students are encouraged that when choosing a topic, you think outside the box as this will most likely earn you better grades. Students who excel in writing about such complex topic may have a chance to be enrolled into some of the best Art universities to develop their skills and talent.

How To Choose Your Sources

Just because you are given total freedom about what you are going to write, does not mean that you should write casually without giving any proof. Remember that a compare and contrast essay is an academic essay so the language and formatting should all be formal.

Referencing and giving citations in your work is one of the best ways of proving your points, hence explaining why you chose a particular stand. The sources that you choose should be up to date and not more than 5 years old unless you are discussing a historical topic. Always check for the credibility of your sources before using them in your essay so as not to give false information. Some of the best sources of information include:

  • Official textbooks and encyclopedias.
  • Published journals.
  • Official magazines.
  • Academic and research reports.
  • Documentaries.

Steps To Writing A Compare And Contrast Essay

As you may know, a compare and contrast essay is not really written like other common kinds of essays . There are certain aspects about it that make it so different from all these other essays and you need to be aware of that before you start writing.

The first thing you need to do is identify the type of compare and contrast essay that you are handling. There are basically four types:

  • Events . These essays focus on the comparison of different historical events in life or in books.
  • Different situations . They examine the differences of certain cases that you may have found yourself in or even others. If you know how to write a newspaper editorial you are familiar with this stylistics
  • Characters . Focused on people or characters in books, what they did and the impact.
  • Locations or travelling essays . Discusses different places and locations in the world.

As much as compare and contrast essays are written a bit differently from other types of essays , there are certain aspects about them that are similar to the writing format of other essays.

  • Introduction . Just like in any other essay, a good compare and contrast essay has to have an introduction that is catchy and functional. Here, you need to explain what your topic is all about and what you hope to achieve at the end of the discussion. It should also have a thesis statement that will give a little more information about the subject matter and why you have chosen to discuss it.
  • Your argument . The next step is to start writing about your stand point, while giving proof of why you think that the way you are looking at it is the best. Use references, quotations and citations to develop your argument into something readable and easy to understand.
  • Opposing arguments . You need to do thorough research about the opposing arguments that your rival would use to counter your points. You should discuss at least two points here and refute these points standing with your own.
  • Concluding statement . Here, you can choose to rephrase your thesis statement and supporting that your point of view is the best. Conclude with a powerful statement that will impact on the reader. Use some cause and effect essay outline to emphasise the connection between the paragraphs.

Writing Tips To Make Your Essay Stand Out

Any good essay has to stand out and encourage the reader to continue reading from the beginning to the end, no matter the type of essay it is. This is why you need to ensure that you make your compare and contrast essay as interesting and accurate as possible using these tips.

  • Check other essays for inspiration. Starting your own essay from scratch can be a bit confusing for most students. This is why you need to take some time and check out other written essays in the same category as the one you are writing for the best ways to start, develop your argument and finally conclude. See how to incorporate quotes, sayings and humor into your compare and contrast essay. Also check on creative ways to use our references to add some backbone to your argument.
  • Think critically. This is necessary when you are trying to find a suitable topic to write about since there are so many to choose from. Brainstorm and write down a list of your best topics listing down the differences and similarities to see which work well together and have a lot of points that you can discuss.
  • Seek professional assistance. Identifying great education services can help you get your hands on really useful sources on your chosen topics. This will help you build a strong argument and to be able to back what you are discussing. You can write literature review where you reveal your sources and how they helped in your discussion. It is a really great way of increasing your word count without unnecessary fluff.
  • Proper formatting and in text citations. As earlier mentioned, a compare and contrast essay is an academic paper so the correct formatting needs to be used according to what you were instructed to do. In text citations give evidence of your discussion and why you chose the argument that you did.

So now you know how to choose the best compare and contrast topics and the different segments that you need to address when writing. You also understand how to find sources and the best kind to use in your paper to make it relevant and interesting. however, you may still have a problem identifying the best topics for you to discuss, which is why we have highlighted different topics that you can use in your compare and contrast essay.

Best Compare And Contrast Topics For University Students

  • Sciences vs Arts: which are the most viable in the job market?
  • Essays vs research papers: what is the difference:
  • Home schooling: what are the benefits and disadvantages?
  • College education: should it be free? What is to be gained if that step was taken?
  • College degrees: how relevant are they in today’s job market?
  • Education: is it necessary to become successful in life?
  • Exams: are they a true reflection of a student’s ability?
  • Boarding schools vs day schools: what are the major differences?
  • Hostels vs renting: what are the advantages and disadvantages?

Political And Historical Topics

  • Karl Marx vs Friedrich Hegel: who made the most impact?
  • The bible vs the Quran: what are the differences in teachings
  • The 60s vs the 90s music: which was better?
  • Capitalism vs communism: which is superior?
  • Dictatorship and democratic: how are they different?
  • Al Qaeda vs Boko Haram: are they the same?
  • African government vs western governments: what are the differences in governance?
  • Greek gods: real or not?
  • Us president vs Monarch of England: what are the differences in power?

Compare And Contrast Topics For Starters

  • Tomatoes: are they fruits or vegetables?
  • Netball vs basketball: are the rules different or the same?
  • Samsung vs apple: which is the better brand?
  • Being miserable in a mansion or happy in a shanty: which is better?
  • Differences between the American and the British.
  • Aliens: real or not?
  • Marijuana: is it dangerous or a blessing in disguise?
  • Winter vs summer: which is better?
  • Dinner date vs movie and drinks.

Battle Of The Opposites Essay Topics

  • White vs black.
  • Alibaba vs amazon.
  • Religious marriage vs civil marriage.
  • Dogs vs cats.
  • Happiness vs sadness.
  • Pizza vs pasta.
  • WW1 vs WW2.
  • Good girl vs bad boy.
  • Electric vs gas cars.

Teenage Compare And Contrast Essays

  • Watching at home vs going out to a movie.
  • When should one be allowed to date?
  • Reading vs watching? Which is easier
  • Arts vs Science
  • Hip hop vs RnB
  • White collar vs blue collar
  • Android vs IOS
  • Casual vs casual official? What is more appropriate?
  • Snapchat vs Instagram: which is better?

IT And Social Media Essay Topics

  • Does paper mailing have a space in future?
  • Desktop computers vs tablets
  • Facebook vs Twitter: which is better?
  • Online jobs vs traditional jobs?
  • SEO vs traditional marketing? Which yield more results?
  • Blogs vs websites.
  • Traditional learning vs E-learning: what does the future hold?
  • Windows vs IOS.
  • Radio vs newspapers.

Movie and Music Comparison Ideas

  • Rock vs country.
  • Batman vs superman: who is the true hero of the world?
  • DC vs Marvel?
  • Comedy vs Horror
  • Dumbledore vs Voldemort
  • Vampires vs werewolves: who are stronger?
  • 3D vs normal screening? Differences and similarities?
  • Avengers vs fantastic four
  • Michael Jackson vs Prince: who is the true kind of pop music?

Compare And Contrast Literature Topics

  • Fiction vs nonfiction: which has a larger readership?
  • Romance vs horror.
  • Past vs present works of literature: which is better?
  • Hardcopy vs E- books
  • Romeo and Juliet: takeaway lessons
  • Is Shakespeare the greatest poet who ever lived?
  • Poetry vs hip hop: are there any similarities?
  • Greek vs Egyptian mythology
  • Is harry potter the best magical fantasy book ever written?

Scientific Topic Ideas

  • Uranus vs Saturn: are there any similarities?
  • The sun vs the moon
  • Chemistry vs biology
  • Nuclear vs fossil energy
  • Disputable scientific statements
  • Science and technology: are they interdependent?
  • Is there life on other planets
  • Can theories in physics be used to explain all aspects of life?
  • Hurricanes vs tornados

Everyday Compare And Contrast Topics

  • Coffee vs tea
  • Wood vs bricks: which is better to build with
  • The west vs the east: similarities
  • Catholics vs protestants
  • African countries vs European countries
  • Flying vs driving: which one is better?
  • McDonalds vs KFC
  • Cartoon network vs Nickelodeon
  • American English vs British English

Philosophy Topic Ideas

  • Music vs poetry: do they have the same effect on people
  • Philosophers vs historians: are they similar?
  • Which is more important food or health care?
  • Are humans wilder than wild animals?
  • Should there be justification for evil deeds?
  • Friends vs enemies: who should you be weary of?
  • Good vs evil: where is the line drawn?
  • Simplest explanation vs complex explanation: which is best?
  • Similarities between philosophy and religion.
  • The pen is mightier than the sword: how true is this?

Final Thoughts

The above mentioned compare and contrast essay topics are just a few of the many topics you can choose to discuss in your essay. If you are still having problems making a decision, then you can always ask for assistance from our professional essay writers who will help you find the best topic. You can also order a fully written compare and contrast essay and ease the amount of work you have to do.

compare and contrast essay topics

It’s no wonder that students like to write contrast and compare essays because they leave a lot of space for creativity and own opinion. Such an essay allows the student to put in his own thoughts on the subjects compared and it can be quite fun to compare two entities rather just analyzing one and composing an essay on that. Of course, this doesn’t make it a very easy job and there are some rules and tips you should be aware of before starting to write a comparative essay.

Main Parts of Writing a Compare Essay

Before you even start writing it is very important to choose the topic that will put you in advantage. In most of the situations, you should look for items to compare that have some differences but similarities as well. For example, you can’t go on writing a comparative essay between a stone and rock and roll. So focus on comparison items that will give you the chance to talk about things they have in common but as well on how one is better than the other at certain aspects.

After you establish the comparison items you needs to do some proper research so that you have enough information on both to be able to perform a proper comparison. There are several sources from where you can gather information on your subjects but make sure that you always go with facts. Your text will need some proper back-up and sources to be cited. You can use sources like:

  • Documentaries
  • Scientific magazines
  • Academic journals
  • Official Reports

How to Write a Comparative and Contrast Essay

If you think that you can simply use the basic essay tips you learned in class or for other types of essays, you’re wrong. The thing with comparative and contrast essays is that you’re not just focusing on one item and anything you write has to be constructed in such a way that it can be used to compare it with the other one.

You can start with the type of topic you choose for your compare and contrast essay. Usually, the topics are divided into 4 categories:

  • People and Fiction

No matter what category you choose to go with, you will have to always follow the structure of any academic paper. If you’re not sure how that goes, let us refresh your memory a bit.

Introduction

Here is the place where you have to try and get your readers to listen and hook them with your story. You need to present your topic, of course, and also your thesis statement which has the role of indicating to your readers what is the probable course of the entire work. The thesis statement usually goes in the first paragraph, somewhere around the last sentence of it.

Emphasizing on your arguments

After you’ve done the research, it’s time to develop the arguments that you make when comparing one thing to another. Makes sure to include reliable sources and don’t overdo it, just make it enough for your comparison to look well-researched.

Refuting arguments

In this section things will go the other way around. You need to research the selected topic and find facts to contradict your initial thesis. Again, choose at least one example and expand it into a paragraph at least that contains the counter-argument and as well as sources you used to reach that conclusion.

Obviously, this is the part where you draw your conclusions. You can restate your thesis statement and point out some of the arguments used over the entire essay that backs it up.

More Tips on Writing a Comparative and Contrast Essay

Always check for possible examples of essays when working on your hook sentence. This sentence has a great influence on a first-time reader of your work decision to keep reading or simply pass. There’s a wide variety of hooks you can use such as:

  • Literary queotes
  • Anecdotes or jokes
  • Quotes of important persons
  • Setting scenes
  • Quotes from poetry
  • Scientific arguments
  • Rhetorical questions

Never stop brainstorming since it’s the best way to make a decision regarding the two items you’re going to write about. Make sure to write them down so you can go over them later and finally decide what you’re going to focus on. You can even start to sketch a few similarities and differences between the topic you brainstormed so that you have an idea on how complicated it will be to write the essay.

If needed, you can always turn to professionals to give you a nudge or help you with your topics or sources. You can appeal to books, movies or articles that are discussing the same topic you’re going to approach in your essay.

Make sure you don’t forget about in-text citations and formatting since you’re writing an academic paper. You have to use all the correct citations, including indirect and direct quotes to make your text even more believable.

We are trying to keep the part on how to write a comparative and contrast essay as brief as possible as we already approached this subject, in full, in another article. This article puts more focus on subjects and topic for these types of essays since without a good topic, you might end up getting stuck and have to start over and over again. So here are the best 150 topics you can elaborate a compare and contrast essay on.

Topics for Compare and Contrast Essays That Can be Used by College Students

As you can see, the topics are divided into multiple categories so that it would be easier for you to select one. We chose to start this list of categorized topics with what’s most relevant for college students and that’s obviously college itself and how to handle it. So, here we go:

  • College vs Schools – what’s changed?
  • Unemployed students compared to students that work. Who’s having the right approach.
  • Essays vs research papers – what’s the best choice?
  • British English or American English – what are the major differences?
  • Are there any similarities between employment and education?
  • TOEFL and SAT – what are the similarities and differences?
  • Ph. D and Master Degree – main differences
  • Argumentative papers vs persuasive paper – same or different
  • Traditional Education or remote education – what works best?

6th Grade Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Summer or Winter – what’s the best season?
  • Christmas at home vs Christmas traveling
  • Wolves and dogs – differences and similarities
  • Flowers and Weeds – why do we need both?
  • Novels or comic books – what’s more interesting to read?
  • Ping-pong vs tennis – what’s your favorite game?
  • Reading a book vs watching TV
  • Female friend or male friends – which ones are best?
  • Western USA vs Eastern USA

Middle School Essay Topics

  • Zeus vs King Arthur – which one is cooler?
  • Role models of 1950s compared to modern role models
  • Watching a move at home compared with going to the cinema
  • Is there a link between school bullies and dictators?
  • Is a hurricane worse than a tsunami or the other way around?
  • Christmas, Halloween or Prom night – which one is the most fun?
  • Bicycle or car driving – which one is more difficult?
  • 5-star hotels vs 3-star ones – why should you choose each of them?
  • Parents or celebrities – who influences a teenager most of all?

High School Compare and Contrast Essay Themes

  • Historic literature or fiction – which one appeals most to college students?
  • College Tests vs High School examinations – what is the most important of the two?
  • E-learning versus traditional learning – is science and technology really helping with the learning process?
  • New England Patriots vs Atlanta Falcons – who has more fans?
  • Printed books vs e-books – what is the most appealing form of reading for colleague students?
  • Story buildings or wooden houses – what type of construction is best?
  • Portugal and Spain – what are the main similarities and differences?
  • Japanese concept of beauty compared with the American one – what are the standards?
  • Modern rock music compared with rock from the early 20th century – what are the differences and how did this genre evolve?

Day-to-day Compare and Contrast Essay Themes

  • Buffy or Twilight – similarities and differences in characters
  • Macbeth vs Julius Caesar – what do they have in common?
  • Modernism vs realism – main differences and similarities
  • Prose vs poetry – what are the literary elements that differentiate these genres
  • Rural vs urban living – what are the similarities and differences
  • Hillary Clinton vs Donald Trump – who should have won and what do they have in common?
  • Barcelona vs Real Madrid – differences and things the two clubs have in common
  • Android vs iOS – benefits of both operating systems
  • Textbooks or tablets in schools – what are the advantages and disadvantages of each in the process of learning?
  • Asylums vs Jails
  • Star Trek vs Star Wards
  • Family Guy vs American Dad
  • Pineapple vs Apple
  • Scandinavian Mythology vs Greek Mythology

Politics and History Compare Essay Topics

  • Washington’s Ideas compared with Lincoln’s way of action
  • Baroque vs Renaissance epochs
  • Religious Studies vs Anthropology
  • Soviet Government opposed to the American Government
  • UK Prime Minister vs US President
  • South and North Before the events of the Civil War in the United States
  • King Louis XIV compared with Henry VIII
  • Nazism and fascism: are there any differences?
  • Difference in the events of World War II and World War I

Easy to Approach Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Comparing an orange to an apple
  • Day Time vs Night Time – what are the advantages of each time frame?
  • What are the main differences between animals and people
  • Being rich opposed to living in poverty
  • Tea or Coffee – What are the similarities and contrasts?
  • Living in a small village opposed to living in a big city
  • The differences between feeling sad or lonely
  • Main differences and similarities between British and American traditional dishes
  • Camping sites – seashore or in the woods?

Opposite Compare Essay Topics

  • Males vs Females
  • Pepsi or Coke?
  • White vs Red
  • Peace vs War
  • Riding the bus or driving a car?
  • Hatred and love
  • Positive and negative aspects of working a lot
  • Sun and the Moon
  • Soft toys or dolls – what are the most appropriate toys?

Compare and Contrast Topics for Teenagers

  • Adulthood vs Childhood
  • Living on Campus opposed to living at home
  • Watching a movie or reading the book that the movie was made after?
  • Freelancing or working in an office?
  • Scientific writing vs academic writing
  • Radio shows or TV show?
  • Professional career or education – what should you focus on?
  • Roman and Greek culture – what are the main similarities and differences
  • Science Classes compared with Art Classes

Social Media and IT Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Traditional Mailing vs email
  • Traditional Commerce vs e-commerce
  • Real-life dating vs online dating sites and apps
  • Video Computer games vs smartphone games
  • Forbes or New York Times?
  • MySpace or Facebook? What’s the best social network?
  • Online job application vs traditional methods
  • Traditional writing services compared with online writing services
  • Online advertising compared with traditional advertising

Music and Movie Compare and Contrast Essay Themes

  • Charmed or Buffy?
  • Movies against books: Reading is the best way to explore a novel?
  • Rock vs Jazz
  • Frodo vs Sam – Which Lord of the Rings character is more important?
  • Dumbledore vs Gandalf
  • Soviet cinematography vs American films
  • Loki and Thor – Brothers or Enemies?
  • Thriller or horror films – what do they have in common
  • Draco Malfoy vs Harry Potter

Literature-Inspired Compare and Contrast Essay Ideas

  • Drama vs Comedy
  • Roman vs Greek Mythology
  • Lessons learned from Beauty and the Best
  • Lyrics of Prose – what students prefer?
  • Nowadays Lyrics compared with poetry of the 13th century
  • Non-fiction vs fiction literature
  • Harry Potter vs Lord of the Rings
  • Literature of the past compared with the one of the future

Scientific Topics for Compare and Contrast Essays

  • Microwave vs Oven
  • Chemistry vs Physics
  • Andromeda and Milky Way
  • What are the differences between Mars and Earth
  • Differences and similarities of the two moon missions
  • DaVinci vs Thomas Jefferson
  • Tsunami vs Earthquakes – what’s the worse natural phenomenon
  • Two different chemical reactions formulas
  • Limited control software vs full access navigation

Popular Compare Essay Themes

  • Football vs Soccer
  • Korean vs Chinese
  • Personal point of view vs public opinion
  • Water or juice
  • Dark beer vs light beer
  • Obesity and Anorexia – what is the most dangerous
  • Divorce and marriage
  • Linux or Windows – Paid vs free OS
  • Capitalism vs Marxism

Philosophical Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Is Miami Beach a better place to live rather than home?
  • Life and Death
  • Anchored in reality or dreamy – what are the pros and cons?
  • Friends or more – where’s the limit?
  • Mental and physical needs of humans
  • Fantasy world or reality?
  • Macbeth and Hamlet – a philosophical approach
  • Humans and dogs – similarities
  • Free access compared with reserved rights – how intellectual property should be treated?
  • Roman philosophers vs Greek ones

Best Dissertation Methodology for Writing a Chapter

  • Rhetorical Analysis Thesis Statement
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good topics for compare contrast essay

good topics for compare contrast essay

Compare and Contrast Essay: Full Writing Guide and 150+ Topics

good topics for compare contrast essay

Compare and contrast essays are academic papers in which a student analyses two or more subjects with each other. To compare means to explore similarities between subjects, while to contrast means to look at their differences. Both subjects of the comparison are usually in the same category, although they have their differences. For example, it can be two movies, two universities, two cars etc.

Good compare and contrast papers from college essay writer focus on a central point, explaining the importance and implications of this analysis. A compare and contrast essay thesis must make a meaningful comparison. Find the central theme of your essay and do some brainstorming for your thesis.

This type of essay is very common among college and university students. Professors challenge their students to use their analytical and comparative skills and pay close attention to the subjects of their comparisons. This type of essay exercises observance and analysis, helps to establish a frame of reference, and makes meaningful arguments about a subject. Let's get deeper on how to write a compare and contrast essay with our research writing services .

How to Start a Compare and Contrast Essay: Brainstorm Similarities and Differences

Now that you know what is compare and contrast essay and are set with your topic, the first thing you should do is grab a piece of paper and make a list with two columns: similarities and differences. Jot down key things first, the most striking ones. Then try to look at the subjects from a different angle, incorporating your imagination.

If you are more of a visual learner, creating a Venn diagram might be a good idea. In order to create it, draw two circles that overlap. In the section where it overlaps, note similarities. Differences should be written in the part of the circle that does not overlap.

Let’s look at a simple example of compare and contrast essay. Let one of the subjects be oranges, and the other one be apples. Oranges have thick peel, originally from India, and are tropical fruit. These characteristics pertain only to oranges and should be in the part of the circle that does not overlap. For the same section on apples, we put thin peel, originated in Turkey or Kazakhstan, and moderate to subtropical. In the section that overlaps, let’s say that they are both fruit, can be juiced, and grow on trees. This simple, yet good example illustrates how the same concept can be applied to many other complicated topics with additional points of comparison and contrast.

Example of compare and contrast

This format of visual aid helps to organize similarities and differences and make them easier to perceive. Your diagram will give you a clear idea of the things you can write about.

Another good idea for brainstorming in preparation for your comparison contrast essay is to create a list with 2 columns, one for each subject, and compare the same characteristics for each of them simultaneously. This compare and contrast format will make writing your comparison contrast paper argument a breeze, as you will have your ideas ready and organized.

One mistake you should avoid is simply listing all of the differences or similarities for each subject. Sometimes students get too caught up in looking for similarities and differences that their compare and contrast essays end up sounding like grocery lists. Your essay should be based on analyzing the similarities and differences, analyzing your conclusions about the two subjects, and finding connections between them—while following a specific format.

Compare and Contrast Essay Structure and Outline

So, how do you structure this compare and contrast paper? Well, since compare and contrast essay examples rely heavily on factual analysis, there are two outline methods that can help you organize your facts. You can use the block method, or point-by-point method, to write a compare and contrast essay outline.

While using the block structure of a compare and contrast essay, all the information is presented for the first subject, and its characteristics and specific details are explained. This concludes one block. The second block takes the same approach as the first for the second subject.

The point-by-point structure lists each similarity and difference simultaneously—making notes of both subjects. For example, you can list a characteristic specific to one subject, followed by its similarity or difference to the other subject.

Both formats have their pros and cons. The block method is clearly easier for a compare and contrast essay writer, as you simply point out all of the information about the two subjects, and basically leave it to the reader to do the comparison. The point-by-point format requires you to analyze the points yourself while making similarities and differences more explicit to the reader for them to be easier to understand. Here is a detailed structure of each type presented below.

Point-by-Point Method

  • Introduce the topic;
  • Specify your theme;
  • Present your thesis - cover all areas of the essay in one sentence.
Example thesis: Cars and motorcycles make for excellent means of transportation, but a good choice depends on the person’s lifestyle, finances, and the city they live in.

Body Paragraph 1 - LIFESTYLE

  • Topic Sentence: Motorcycles impact the owner’s lifestyle less than cars.
  • Topic 1 - Motorcycles
  • ~ Argument: Motorcycles are smaller and more comfortable to store.
  • ~ Argument: Motorcycles are easy to learn and use.
  • Topic 2 - Cars
  • ~ Argument: Cars are a big deal - they are like a second home.
  • ~ Argument: It takes time to learn to become a good driver.

Body Paragraph 2 - FINANCES

  • Topic sentence: Cars are much more expensive than motorcycles
  • ~ Argument: You can buy a good motorcycle for under 300$.
  • ~ Argument: Fewer parts that are more accessible to fix.
  • ~ Argument: Parts and service are expensive if something breaks.
  • ~ Argument: Cars need more gas than motorcycles.

Body Paragraph 3 - CITY

  • Topic sentence: Cars are a better option for bigger cities with wider roads.
  • ~ Argument: Riding motorcycles in a big city is more dangerous than with cars.
  • ~ Argument: Motorcycles work great in a city like Rome, where all the streets are narrow.
  • ~ Argument: Big cities are easier and more comfortable to navigate by car.
  • ~ Argument: With a car, traveling outside of the city is much easier.
  • Sum up all you wrote in the article.

Block Method

  • Thesis — cover all areas of the essay in one sentence

Body Paragraph 1

  • Topic Sentence: Motorcycles are cheaper and easier to take care of than cars.
  • Aspect 1 - Lifestyle
  • Aspect 2 - Finances
  • ~ Argument: Fewer parts, easier to fix.
  • Aspect 3 - City
  • ~ Argument: Riding motorcycles in a big city is more dangerous than cars.

Body Paragraph 2

  • Topic sentence: Cars are more expensive but more comfortable for a big city and for travelling.
  • ~ Argument: Cars are a big deal—like a second home.
  • ~ Argument: With a car, traveling outside the city is much more comfortable.

Body Paragraph 3 ‍

Use the last paragraph to evaluate the comparisons and explain why they’re essential. Giving a lot of facts can be intense. To water it down, try to give the reader any real-life applications of these facts.

Depending on the structure selected, you can begin to create an outline for your essay. The typical comparison essay follows the format of having an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion — though, if you need to focus on each subject in more detailed ways, feel free to include an extra paragraph to cover all of the most important points.

To make your compare and contrast essay flow better, we recommend using special transition words and phrases. They will add variety and improve your paper overall.

For the section where you compare two subjects, you can include any of the following words: similarly, likewise, also, both, just like, similar to, the same as, alike, or to compare to. When contrasting two subjects, use: in contrast, in comparison, by comparison, on the other hand, while, whereas, but, to differ from, dissimilar to, or unlike.

Show Your Evidence

Arguments for any essay, including compare and contrast essays, need to be supported by sufficient evidence. Make good use of your personal experiences, books, scholarly articles, magazine and newspaper articles, movies, or anything that will make your argument sound credible. For example, in your essay, if you were to compare attending college on campus vs. distance-based learning, you could include your personal experiences of being a student, and how often students show up to class on a daily basis. You could also talk about your experience taking online classes, which makes your argument about online classes credible as well.

Helpful Final Tips

The biggest tip dissertation writing services can give you is to have the right attitude when writing a compare contrast essay, and actively engage the reader in the discussion. If you find it interesting, so will your reader! Here are some more compare and contrast essay tips that will help you to polish yours up:

types of writing

  • Compare and contrast essays need powerful transitions. Try learning more about writing transition sentences using the words we provided for you in the 'Compare and Contrast Structure and Outline' section.
  • Always clarify the concepts you introduce in your essay. Always explain lesser known information—don’t assume the reader must already know it.
  • Do not forget to proofread. Small mistakes, but in high quantities, can result in a low grade. Pay attention to your grammar and punctuation.
  • Have a friend or family member take a look at your essay; they may notice things you have missed.

Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Now that you know everything there is to know about compare and contrast essays, let’s take a look at some compare and contrast examples to get you started on your paper or get a hand from our essay helper .

Different countries across the world have diverse cultural practices, and this has an effect on work relationships and development. Geert Hofstede came up with a structured way of comparing cultural dimensions of different countries. The theory explains the impacts of a community’s culture on the values of the community members, and the way these values relate to their behaviors. He gives scores as a way to help distinguish people from different nations using the following dimensions: long-term orientation, individualism, power distance, indulgence, necessity avoidance, and masculinity. Let us examine comparisons between two countries: the United Kingdom and China — based on Hofstede’s Six Dimensions of Culture.
Over the last two decades, the demand from consumers for organic foods has increased tremendously. In fact, the popularity of organic foods has exploded significantly with consumers, spending a considerably higher amount of money on them as compared to the amount spent on inorganic foods. The US market noted an increase in sales of more than 10% between 2014 and 2015 (Brown, n.p). The increase is in line with the views of many consumers that organic foods are safer, tastier, and healthier compared to the inorganic foods. Furthermore, considering the environmental effects of foods, organic foods present less risk of environmental pollution — compared to inorganic foods. By definition, organic foods are those that are grown without any artificial chemical treatment, or treatment by use of other substances that have been modified genetically, such as hormones and/or antibiotics (Brown, n.p).

Still feeling confused about the complexities of the compare and contrast essay? Feel free to contact our paper writing service to get a professional writing help.

Finding the Best Compare and Contrast Essay Topics For You

When choosing a topic for your comparison essay, remember that subjects cannot be drastically different, because there would be little to no points of comparison (similarities). The same goes for too many similarities, which will result in poor contrasts. For example, it is better to write about two composers, rather than a composer and a singer.

It is extremely important to choose a topic you are passionate about. You never want to come across something that seems dull and uninspiring for you. Here are some excellent ways to brainstorm for a topic from essay writer :

  • Find categories: Choose a type (like animals, films or economics), and compare subjects within that category – wild animals to farm animals, Star Wars to Star Trek, private companies to public companies, etc.
  • Random Surprising Fact: Dig for fun facts which could make great topics. Did you know that chickens can be traced back to dinosaurs?
  • Movie vs. Book: Most of the time, the book is better than the movie — unless it’s Blade Runner or Lord of the Rings. If you’re a pop culture lover, compare movies vs. books, video games, comics, etc.

Use our rewrite essay service when you need help from professionals.

How to Choose a Great Compare and Contrast Topic

College students should consider providing themselves with a chance to use all topic examples. With enough revision, an advantage is gained. As it will be possible to compare arguments and contrast their aspects. Also, discuss numerous situations to get closer to the conclusion.

For example:

  • Choose a topic from the field of your interests. Otherwise you risk failing your paper.
  • It is a good idea to choose a topic based upon the class subject or specialist subject. (Unless the requirements say otherwise.)
  • Analyze each argument carefully. Include every detail for each opposing idea. Without doing so, you can definitely lower grades.
  • Write a conclusion that summarizes both arguments. It should allow readers to find the answer they’re looking for.
  • It is up to you to determine which arguments are right and wrong in the final conclusion.
  • Before approaching the final conclusion, it’s important to discuss each argument equally. It is a bad idea to be biased, as it can also lower grades.

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150 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics to Consider

Choosing a topic can be a challenging task, but there are plenty of options to consider. In the following sections, we have compiled a list of 150 compare and contrast essay topics to help you get started. These topics cover a wide range of subjects, from education and technology to history and politics. Whether you are a high school student or a college student, you are sure to find a topic that interests you. So, read on to discover some great compare and contrast essay ideas.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics For College Students

When attending a college, at any time your professor can assign you the task of writing this form of an essay. Consider these topics for college students from our team to get the grades you deserve.

  • Attending a College Course Vs. Distance-Based Learning.
  • Writing a Research Paper Vs. Writing a Creative Writing Paper. What are the differences and similarities?
  • The differences between a Bachelor’s Degree and a Master’s Degree.
  • The key aspects of the differences between the US and the UK education systems.
  • Completing assignments at a library compared with doing so at home. Which is the most efficient?
  • The similarities and differences in the behavior among married and unmarried couples.
  • The similarities and differences between the EU (European Union) and ASEAN (The Association of Southeast Asian Nations)?
  • The similarities and significant differences between American and Canadian English.
  • Writing an Internship Report Vs. Writing a Research Paper
  • The differences between US colleges and colleges in the EU?

Interesting Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Some topics for the compare and contrast essay format can be boring. To keep up motivation, doing a research , have a look at these topics. Maybe they can serve you as research paper help .

  • Public Transport Vs. Driving A Car. Which is more efficient?
  • Mandarin Vs. Cantonese: What are the differences between these Chinese languages?
  • Sports Cars Vs. Luxurious Family Cars
  • Wireless Technology Vs. Wired Devices
  • Thai Food Vs. Filipino Cuisine
  • What is the difference and similarities between a register office marriage and a traditional marriage?
  • The 2000s Vs. The 2010s. What are the differences and what makes them similar?
  • Abu Dhabi Vs. Dubai. What are the main factors involved in the differences?
  • What are the differences between American and British culture?
  • What does the New York Metro do differently to the London Underground?

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for High School Students

When writing essays for high school, it is good to keep them informative. Have a look at these compare and contrast sample topics.

  • Highschool Life Vs. College Life
  • Paying College Fees Vs. Being Awarded a Scholarship
  • All Night Study Sessions Vs. Late Night Parties
  • Teenager Vs. Young Adult Relationships
  • Being in a Relationship Vs. Being Single
  • Male Vs. Female Behavior
  • The similarities and differences between a high school diploma and a college degree
  • The similarities and differences between Economics and Business Studies
  • The benefits of having a part-time job, instead of a freelance job, in college
  • High School Extra Curricular Activities Vs. Voluntarily Community Services

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Science

At some point, every science student will be assigned this type of essay. To keep things at flow, have a look at best compare and contrast essay example topics on science:

  • Undiscovered Species on Earth Vs. Potential Life on Mars: What will we discover in the future?
  • The benefits of Gasoline Powered Cars Vs. Electric Powered Cars
  • The differences of the Milky Way Vs. Centaurus (Galaxies).
  • Earthquakes Vs. Hurricanes: What should be prepared for the most?
  • The differences between our moon and Mars’ moons.
  • SpaceX Vs. NASA. What is done differently within these organizations?
  • The differences and similarities between Stephen Hawking and Brian Cox’s theories on the cosmos. Do they agree or correspond with each other?
  • Pregnancy Vs. Motherhood
  • Jupiter Vs. Saturn
  • Greenhouse Farming Vs. Polytunnel Farming

Sports & Leisure Topics

Studying Physical Education? Or a gym fanatic? Have a look at our compare and contrast essay topics for sports and leisure.

  • The English Premier League Compared With The Bundesliga
  • Real Madrid Vs. Barcelona
  • Football Vs. Basketball
  • Walking Vs. Eating Outside with Your Partner
  • Jamaica Team Vs. United States Team: Main Factors and Differences
  • Formula One Vs. Off-Road Racing
  • Germany Team Vs. Brazil Team
  • Morning Exercise Vs. Evening Exercise.
  • Manning Team Vs. Brazil Team
  • Swimming Vs. Cycling

Topics About Culture

Culture can have several meanings. If you’re a Religious Studies or Culture student, take a look at these good compare and contrast essay topics about culture.

  • The fundamental similarities and differences between Pope Francis and Tawadros II of Alexandria
  • Canadian Vs. Australian Religion
  • The differences between Islamic and Christian Holidays
  • The cultural similarities and differences between the Native Aboriginals and Caucasian Australians
  • Native American Culture Vs. New England Culture
  • The cultural differences and similarities between Italians and Sicilians
  • In-depth: The origins of Buddhism and Hinduism
  • In-depth: The origins of Christianity and Islam
  • Greek Gods Vs. Hindu Gods
  • The Bible: Old Testament Vs. New Testament

Unique Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

What about writing an essay which is out of the ordinary? Consider following these topics to write a compare and contrast essay on, that are unique.

  • The reasons why some wealthy people pay extortionate amounts of money for gold-plated cell phones, rather than buying the normal phone.
  • The differences between Lipton Tea and Ahmad Tea
  • American Football Vs. British Football: What are their differences?
  • The differences and similarities between France and Britain
  • Fanta Vs. 7Up
  • Traditional Helicopters Vs. Lifesize Drones
  • The differences and similarities between Boston Dynamics and the fictional equivalent Skynet (From Terminator Movies).
  • Socialism Vs. Capitalism: Which is better?
  • Curved Screen TVs’ Vs. Regular Flat Screen TVs’: Are they really worth big bucks?
  • Is it better to wear black or white at funerals?

Good Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Sometimes, it may be a requirement to take it back a notch. Especially if you’re new to these style of writing. Consider having a look at these good compare and contrast essay topics that are pretty easy to start off.

  • Is it a good idea to work on weekdays or weekends?
  • Black of White Coffee
  • Becoming a teacher or a doctor? Which career choice has more of an impact on society?
  • Air Travel Vs. Sea Travel: Which is better?
  • Rail Travel Vs. Road Travel: Which is more convenient?
  • What makes Europe far greater than Africa? In terms of financial growth, regulations, public funds, policies etc…
  • Eating fruit for breakfast Vs. cereals
  • Staying Home to Read Vs. Traveling the World During Holidays. Which is more beneficial for personal growth?
  • Japanese Vs. Brazilian Cuisine
  • What makes ASEAN Nations more efficient than African Nations?

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics About TV Shows, Music and Movies

We all enjoy at least one of these things. If not, all of them. Why not have a go at writing a compare and contrast essay about what you have been recently watching or listening to?

  • Breaking Bad Vs. Better Call Saul: Which is more commonly binge watched?
  • The differences between Dance Music and Heavy Metal
  • James Bond Vs. Johnny English
  • Iron Man Vs. The Incredible Hulk: Who would win?
  • What is done differently in modern movies, compared to old black and white movies?
  • Dumber and Dumber 2 Vs. Ted: Which movie is funnier?
  • Are Horror movies or Action Movies best suited to you?
  • The differences and similarities between Mozart and Beethoven compositions.
  • Hip Hop Vs. Traditional Music
  • Classical Music Vs. Pop Music. Which genre helps people concentrate?

Topics About Art

Sometimes, art students are required to write this style of essay. Have a look at these compare and contrast essay topics about the arts of the centuries.

  • The fundamental differences and similarities between paintings and sculptures
  • The different styles of Vincent Van Gogh and Leonardo Da Vinci.
  • Viewing Original Art Compared With Digital Copies. How are these experiences different?
  • 18th Century Paintings Vs. 21st Century Digitally Illustrated Images
  • German Art Vs. American Art
  • Modern Painting Vs. Modern Photography
  • How can we compare modern graphic designers to 18th-century painters?
  • Ancient Greek Art Vs. Ancient Egyptian Art
  • Ancient Japanese Art Vs. Ancient Persian Art
  • What 16th Century Painting Materials were used compared with the modern day?

Best Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Almost every student at any stage of academics is assigned this style of writing. If you’re lacking inspiration, consider looking at some of the best compare and contrast essay topics to get you on track with your writing.

  • The United States and North Korea Governmental Conflict: What is the reason behind this phenomenon?
  • In the Early Hours, Drinking Water is far healthier than consuming soda.
  • The United States Vs. The People’s Republic of China: Which economy is the most efficient?
  • Studying in Foreign Countries Vs. Studying In Your Hometown: Which is more of an advantage?
  • Toast Vs. Cereal: Which is the most consumed in the morning?
  • Sleeping Vs. Daydreaming: Which is the most commonly prefered? And amongst who?
  • Learning French Vs. Chinese: Which is the most straightforward?
  • Android Phones Vs. iPhones
  • The Liberation of Slaves Vs. The Liberation of Women: Which is more remembered?
  • The differences between the US Dollar and British Pound. What are their advantages? And How do they correspond with each other?

Easy Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

In all types of academics, these essays occur. If you’re new to this style of writing, check our easy compare and contrast essay topics.

  • The Third Reich Vs. North Korea
  • Tea Vs. Coffee
  • iPhone Vs. Samsung
  • KFC Vs. Wendy’s
  • Laurel or Yanny?
  • Healthy Lifestyle Vs. Obese Lifestyle
  • Forkes Vs. Sporks
  • Rice Vs. Porridge
  • Roast Dinner Vs. Chicken & Mushroom Pie
  • What’s the difference between apples and oranges?

Psychology Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Deciding upon good compare and contrast essay topics for psychology assignments can be difficult. Consider referring to our list of 10 psychology compare and contrast essay topics to help get the deserved grades.

  • What is a more severe eating order? Bulimia or Anorexia
  • Modern Medicine Vs. Traditional Medicine for Treating Depression?
  • Soft Drugs Vs. Hard Drugs. Which is more dangerous for people’s psychological well-being?
  • How do the differences between Lust and Love have an effect on people’s mindsets?
  • Ego Vs. Superego
  • Parents Advice Vs. Peers Advice amongst children and teens.
  • Strict Parenting Vs. Relaxed Parenting
  • Mental Institutions Vs. Stress Clinics
  • Bipolar Disorder Vs. Epilepsy
  • How does child abuse affect victims in later life?

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Sixth Graders

From time to time, your teacher will assign the task of writing a compare and contrast essay. It can be hard to choose a topic, especially for beginners. Check out our easy compare and contrast essay topics for sixth graders.

  • Exam Preparation Vs. Homework Assignments
  • Homeschooling Vs. Public Education
  • High School Vs. Elementary School
  • 5th Grade Vs. 6th Grade: What makes them different or the same?
  • Are Moms’ or Dads’ more strict among children?
  • Is it better to have strict parents or more open parents?
  • Sandy Beaches Vs. Pebble Beaches: Which beaches are more popular?
  • Is it a good idea to learn guitar or piano?
  • Is it better to eat vegetable salads or pieces of fruit for lunch?
  • 1st Grade Vs. 6th Grade

Funny Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Sometimes, it is good to have a laugh. As they always say : 'laughter is the best medicine'. Check out these funny compare and contrast essay topics for a little giggle when writing.

  • What is the best way to waste your time? Watching Funny Animal Videos or Mr. Bean Clips?
  • Are Pug Dogs or Maltese Dogs crazier?
  • Pot Noodles Vs. McDonalds Meals.
  • What is the difference between Peter Griffin and Homer Simpson?
  • Mrs. Doubtfire Vs. Mrs. Brown. How are they similar?
  • Which game is more addictive? Flappy Bird or Angry Birds?
  • Big Shaq Vs. PSY
  • Stewie Griffin Vs. Maggie Simpson
  • Quarter Pounders Vs. Big Macs
  • Mr. Bean Vs. Alan Harper

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170 Creative Compare And Contrast Essay Topics

November 3, 2023 //  by  Lauren Du Plessis

From analyzing historical events and time periods to taking a deep dive into topics such as environmentalism, social and political issues, and more, we invite your learners to compare and contrast some of the most remarkable topics! Whether they work through these topics alone or in groups, they’re sure to find a wealth of information and exciting facts! Get reading to discover 170 intriguing essay topics!

Historical and Cultural Topics

1. Ancient Greece vs. Ancient Rome

Compare the political systems, architecture, and cultural achievements of these civilizations.

2. Aztecs vs. Mayans

Analyze the similarities and differences in their cultural practices, beliefs, and societal structures.

3. European Renaissance vs. Harlem Renaissance

Contrast the artistic, intellectual, and societal changes that defined each movement.

4. The American Revolution vs. The French Revolution

Compare the causes, key events, and outcomes of these historical upheavals.

5. Eastern vs. Western Art Traditions

Discuss the stylistic differences, themes, and influences in these artistic traditions.

6. Greek vs. Roman Mythology

Analyze the similarities and differences in gods, myths, and cultural impacts.

7. World Religions

Compare and contrast the rituals and practices in Christianity and Islam.

8. American vs. British English

Discuss the linguistic variations, cultural influences, and global implications of each dialect.

9. Multiculturalism

Contrast the melting pot and salad bowl models of cultural integration in diverse societies.

10. Medieval Europe vs. Feudal Japan

good topics for compare contrast essay

11. Native American Cultures vs. Indigenous Australian Cultures

good topics for compare contrast essay

12. Colonialism vs. Imperialism

good topics for compare contrast essay

Dive into the distinctions and commonalities between colonialism’s direct rule and imperialism’s broader influence.

13. Viking Lore vs. Egyptian Mythology

good topics for compare contrast essay

14. Traditional vs. Modern Olympic Games

good topics for compare contrast essay

Social and Political Issues

15. Socialism vs. Capitalism

Examine social welfare policies, wealth distribution, and government intervention in these economic systems.

16. Communism vs. Democracy

Contrast the governance models, political freedoms, and historical examples of each system.

17. Immigration Policies

Compare and contrast the approaches, challenges, and outcomes of U.S. and Canadian immigration policies.

18. Gun Control Policies

Analyze the effectiveness, cultural factors, and public opinions surrounding U.S. and Australian policies.

19. Women’s Rights

Discuss the gender wage gap in developed and developing countries and the social factors contributing to these disparities.

20. Abortion Debate

Compare the pro-life and pro-choice perspectives, laws, and social implications of each stance.

21. Censorship vs. Freedom of Speech

Contrast the boundaries, justifications, and consequences of restricting or protecting expression.

22. News Reporting

Analyze the differences, credibility, and impact of objective journalism and opinion journalism.

23. Online Privacy

Compare the risks, benefits, and implications of government surveillance and corporate data collection.

24. Universal Healthcare vs. Private Healthcare

good topics for compare contrast essay

25. Monarchies vs. Republics

good topics for compare contrast essay

26. Prohibition vs. Legalization of Drugs

good topics for compare contrast essay

27. Secularism vs. Religious States

good topics for compare contrast essay

28. Youth Rights vs. Elderly Rights

good topics for compare contrast essay

29. Urbanization vs. Rural Development

good topics for compare contrast essay

30. LGBTQ+ Rights Movement

good topics for compare contrast essay

31. Grassroots Movements vs. Top-Down Reforms

good topics for compare contrast essay

Explore the dynamics, effectiveness, and challenges of grassroots movements in comparison to top-down, institutional reforms.

Environmental Issues

32. Climate Change

Analyze adaptation measures, such as sea level rise management and drought management, and their long-term viability.

33. Environmentalism

Compare wildlife conservation efforts to habitat preservation, and the implications of each approach.

34. Renewable Energy

Discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and potential of solar power and wind power as sustainable energy sources.

35. Animal Rights

Contrast the ethical debates surrounding zoos and sanctuaries, and the role they play in conservation efforts.

36. Urban Development

Compare smart cities and sustainable cities, and the strategies employed to achieve their respective goals.

37. Preservation vs. Conservation

good topics for compare contrast essay

38. Biodiversity vs. Monocultures

good topics for compare contrast essay

39. Organic vs. GMO Foods

good topics for compare contrast essay

40. Passive vs. Active Solar Designs

good topics for compare contrast essay

41. Forest Conservation vs. Urban Forests

good topics for compare contrast essay

42. Water Scarcity: Desalination vs. Conservation

good topics for compare contrast essay

43. Traditional Classroom vs. Online Learning

Analyze the effectiveness, accessibility, and student outcomes of each approach.

44. Homeschooling vs. Public Schooling

Contrast the benefits, challenges, and results of these educational models.

45. Liberal Arts vs. STEM Education

Discuss the goals, skill development, and career prospects associated with each path.

46. Education Systems

Compare standardized testing in the U.S. and Finland, and the impacts on student achievement and well-being.

47. College vs. Vocational School

Contrast post-secondary education pathways and their outcomes for students.

48. Co-ed Schools vs. Single-Sex Schools

Analyze the advantages and disadvantages of each educational setting, focusing on academic performance, social development, and gender stereotypes.

49. Early Childhood Education vs. Secondary Education

good topics for compare contrast essay

50. Experiential Learning vs. Rote Memorization

good topics for compare contrast essay

51. Continuous Assessment vs. Final Exams

good topics for compare contrast essay

52. Traditional Libraries vs. Digital Libraries

good topics for compare contrast essay

53. Student-Centered vs. Teacher-Centered Learning

good topics for compare contrast essay

Contrast the collaborative environment of student-centered learning with the structured guidance of teacher-centered approaches.

54. Impact of Social Media on Personal Relationships vs. Professional Networking

Discuss the ways social media has transformed both spheres.

55. E-books vs Print Books

Analyze the accessibility, environmental impact, and reading experience of each format.

56. Virtual Reality vs. Augmented Reality

Compare the applications, experiences, and potential future developments of these technologies.

57. Technological Advancements

Contrast the impact of artificial intelligence on employment and education, discussing the benefits and potential drawbacks.

58. Space Exploration

Analyze the advantages and challenges of manned missions vs. robotic missions in terms of cost, safety, and scientific discovery.

59. Smartphones vs. Traditional Cell Phones

Discuss the features, functionality, and societal changes brought about by the rise of smartphones.

60. Streaming Services vs. Traditional TV

Compare the convenience, content, and pricing models of each media platform.

61. Internet of Things vs. Edge Computing

good topics for compare contrast essay

62. Cloud Storage vs. Physical Storage Devices

good topics for compare contrast essay

63. Electric Vehicles vs. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles

good topics for compare contrast essay

64. Drones vs. Manned Aircraft

good topics for compare contrast essay

65. Analog vs. Digital Signals

good topics for compare contrast essay

Literature, Film, and Arts

66. American Literature vs. British Literature

Contrast the themes, styles, and historical contexts of these literary traditions.

67. Shakespeare’s Tragedies vs. Comedies

Analyze the differences in plot, character development, and thematic content between these two genres of Shakespeare’s works.

68. Film Adaptations vs. Original Novels

Discuss the challenges, successes, and changes that occur when adapting literature for the screen.

69. Hollywood vs. Bollywood Film Industries

Compare the production, cultural influence, and global reach of these two dominant film industries.

70. African Art vs. South American Art

good topics for compare contrast essay

Discover the artistic differences and common threads that weave through African and South American art forms.

71. Art Nouveau vs. Art Deco

good topics for compare contrast essay

72. Baroque vs. Rococo Art Styles

good topics for compare contrast essay

73. Modernism vs. Postmodernism in Literature

good topics for compare contrast essay

74. Animated Films vs. Live-Action Films

good topics for compare contrast essay

75. Poetry vs. Prose

good topics for compare contrast essay

76. Classical Music vs. Jazz

good topics for compare contrast essay

77. Street Art vs. Gallery Art

good topics for compare contrast essay

Compare the spontaneous, public appeal of street art with the curated, formal setting of gallery art.

Lifestyle and Health

78. Vegetarianism vs. Veganism

Compare the benefits and challenges of these two diets, considering factors like nutritional content, environmental impact, and ethical considerations.

79. Traditional Exercise vs. Yoga

Analyze the differences in health benefits, mental focus, and flexibility gained through traditional exercise routines and yoga practices.

80. City Life vs. Country Life

Contrast the lifestyle, cost of living, social interactions, and environmental aspects of urban and rural living.

81. Living Alone vs. Living with Roommates

Examine the financial, social, and psychological implications of living independently or sharing a living space with others.

82. Owning a Pet vs. Not Owning a Pet

Discuss the emotional, financial, and time commitments of pet ownership compared to a pet-free lifestyle.

83. Meditation vs. Therapy for Stress Relief

Compare the effectiveness, accessibility, and overall benefits of meditation and therapy for managing stress.

84. Organic vs. Conventional Farming

Analyze the environmental, health, and economic implications of organic and conventional agricultural practices.

85. Holistic Medicine vs. Allopathic Medicine

good topics for compare contrast essay

86. Dieting vs. Intuitive Eating

good topics for compare contrast essay

87. Acupuncture vs. Physical Therapy

good topics for compare contrast essay

88. Mental Health vs. Emotional Well-being

good topics for compare contrast essay

Examine the clinical aspects of mental health in contrast to the personal and subjective nuances of emotional well-being.

89. Buying Local vs. Globalized Trade

good topics for compare contrast essay

Contrast the personal and community benefits of buying local with the diversity and scale of globalized trade.

Sports and Recreation

90. Team Sports vs. Individual Sports

Contrast the physical, mental, and social benefits of participating in team-based and individual sports.

91. Professional Athletes vs. Amateur Athletes

Compare the lifestyle, training, and commitment levels of professional and amateur athletes.

92. Watching Sports vs. Participating in Sports

Contrast the physical, psychological, and social aspects of being a sports spectator and an active participant.

93. Physical Sports vs. Esports

Analyze the skill sets, mental agility, and physical demands of traditional sports compared to competitive video gaming.

94. Olympic Games vs. Paralympic Games

Discuss the similarities and differences in the organization, competition, and global impact of these two major sporting events.

95. Indoor vs. Outdoor Activities

good topics for compare contrast essay

Compare the controlled environments of indoor activities with the dynamic settings of outdoor recreations.

96. Endurance Sports vs. Strength Sports

good topics for compare contrast essay

Contrast the stamina-driven challenges of endurance sports with the muscle-focused feats of strength sports.

97. Winter vs. Summer Sports

good topics for compare contrast essay

Explore the chilly thrills of winter sports in comparison to the heated competition of summer sports.

98. Recreational vs. Competitive Gaming

good topics for compare contrast essay

Delve into the relaxed, personal joys of recreational gaming against the high-stakes world of competitive gaming.

Travel and Tourism

99. Budget Travel vs. Luxury Travel

Contrast the experiences, affordability, and accommodations of budget-conscious and high-end travel options.

100. Domestic Travel vs. International Travel

Discuss the cultural, logistical, and financial differences between exploring one’s own country and traveling abroad.

101. Cultural Tourism vs. Adventure Tourism

Compare the goals, experiences, and benefits of engaging with local cultures or seeking adrenaline-fueled activities while traveling.

102. Sustainable Tourism vs. Mass Tourism

Contrast the environmental, social, and economic impacts of responsible tourism practices with large-scale tourism operations.

103. Cruises vs. All-Inclusive Resorts

Compare the experiences, costs, and amenities of cruise ships and all-inclusive vacation properties.

104. Solo Travel vs. Group Travel

Compare the freedom, safety, and social aspects of traveling alone or with a group.

105. Eco-Tourism vs. Cultural Tourism

good topics for compare contrast essay

106. Backpacking vs. Glamping

good topics for compare contrast essay

107. Island Getaways vs. Mountain Retreats

good topics for compare contrast essay

Weigh the pros and cons of the tranquil oceanic vibes of an island getaway against the serene elevation of a mountain retreat.

108. Historical Sites vs. Natural Wonders

good topics for compare contrast essay

Contrast the cultural narratives and manufactured marvels of historical sites with the raw beauty of natural wonders.

Personal Development and Career

109. Work-Life Balance vs. Work-Life Integration

Analyze the effectiveness, mental health implications, and personal satisfaction of these two strategies for managing professional and personal responsibilities.

110. Entrepreneurship vs. Traditional Employment

Contrast the risks, rewards, and challenges of starting a business and working for an established company.

111. Networking: Online vs. In-Person

Compare the effectiveness, accessibility, and relationship-building potential of digital and face-to-face networking opportunities.

112. Job Satisfaction: Money vs. Meaning

Discuss the importance of financial rewards and personal fulfillment in achieving overall job satisfaction.

113. Leadership Styles: Autocratic vs. Democratic

Analyze the effectiveness, employee satisfaction, and decision-making processes of these two contrasting leadership approaches.

114. Workplace Environment: Remote Work vs. Office Work

Compare the productivity, collaboration, and work-life balance implications of remote and in-office work arrangements.

115. Career Choices: Following Passion vs. Pursuing Financial Stability

Contrast the long-term satisfaction, work-life balance, and stability of these two career decision-making approaches.

116. Side Hustles vs. Full-Time Jobs

good topics for compare contrast essay

Contrast the flexibility of multiple projects of side hustles with the stability and commitment of full-time jobs.

117. Skill Acquisition: Self-Taught vs. Formal Education

good topics for compare contrast essay

Compare the self-driven exploration of self-taught skill acquisition versus the structured guidance of formal education.

118. Building Personal Brand vs. Corporate Identity

good topics for compare contrast essay

Explore the individualistic approach of building a personal brand with the collective representation of a corporate identity.

119. Fixed vs. Growth Mindset

good topics for compare contrast essay

Contrast the limitations of a fixed mindset with the adaptability and potential of a growth mindset.

Philosophy and Ethics

120. Free Will vs. Determinism

Contrast the philosophical arguments for and against the existence of free will and the concept of determinism.

121. Theories of Reality: Idealism vs. Materialism

Analyze the differences in these two philosophical theories regarding the nature of reality and the role of human perception.

122. Nature vs. Nurture Debate

Discuss the contributions of genetics and environmental factors in shaping human behavior, intelligence, and personality.

123. Moral Absolutism vs. Moral Relativism

Contrast the principles and implications of these two ethical perspectives on the universality of moral values.

124. Theories of Intelligence

Multiple Intelligences vs. Emotional Intelligence: Compare the concepts, practical applications, and educational implications of these two theories of intelligence.

125. Utilitarianism vs. Deontological Ethics

Compare these two ethical theories, focusing on their principles, decision-making processes, and potential outcomes.

126. Existentialism vs. Absurdism

good topics for compare contrast essay

Compare existentialism’s quest for individual meaning against absurdism’s acceptance of life’s inherent randomness.

127. Empiricism vs. Rationalism

good topics for compare contrast essay

Contrast the sensory-based knowledge acquisition of empiricism with the emphasis on reasoning found in rationalism.

128. Ethical Consumerism vs. Capitalist Consumption

good topics for compare contrast essay

Compare the morally conscious decisions of ethical consumerism against the profit-driven motives of capitalist consumption.

129. Virtue Ethics vs. Care Ethics

good topics for compare contrast essay

Delve into the character-driven moral compass of virtue ethics versus the relationship-centered perspective of care ethics.

130. Quantum Mechanics vs. Classical Mechanics

Contrast the principles, applications, and limitations of these two fundamental branches of physics.

131. Scientific Method

Deductive Reasoning vs. Inductive Reasoning: Discuss the differences between these two reasoning processes and their roles in scientific inquiry.

132. Microbiology vs. Molecular Biology

Compare the research focus, techniques, and applications of these two branches of biological science.

133. Astronomy vs. Astrology

Contrast the scientific study of celestial objects with the pseudoscientific interpretation of their influence on human affairs.

134. Evolution vs. Creationism

Analyze the scientific evidence and religious beliefs behind these two perspectives on the origin of life.

135. Paleontology vs. Anthropology

good topics for compare contrast essay

Contrast the study of ancient life through fossils in paleontology with the focus on human societies found in anthropology.

136. The Study of Light: Optics vs. Photonics

good topics for compare contrast essay

Explore the properties and behavior of light in optics versus the quantum properties of light in photonics.

137. The Brain vs. The Mind

good topics for compare contrast essay

Delve into the physical, neurological intricacies of the brain compared to the intangible, conscious experiences of the mind.

138. The Universe: Big Bang Theory vs. Steady State Theory

good topics for compare contrast essay

Compare the explosive, singular beginning of the universe in the Big Bang Theory against the unchanging, eternal nature proposed by the Steady State Theory.

139. Cognitive Psychology vs. Behavioral Psychology

Contrast the research focus, methods, and applications of these two approaches to understanding human behavior.

140. Theories of Motivation: Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic

Discuss the effectiveness, potential drawbacks, and applications of these two motivational strategies.

141. Mental Health: Psychotherapy vs. Medication

Compare the benefits, limitations, and appropriate uses of psychological counseling and pharmacological treatments for mental health conditions.

142. Freud’s Psychoanalytic Theory vs. Jung’s Analytical Psychology

Analyze the differences between these two influential theories of personality and the unconscious mind.

143. Gestalt vs. Humanistic Psychology

good topics for compare contrast essay

Contrast the holistic approach of Gestalt psychology with the personal growth focus of Humanistic psychology.

144. Nature of Memory: Recall vs. Recognition

good topics for compare contrast essay

Delve into the nature of memory, contrasting active retrieval in recall with the recognition of familiar stimuli.

145. Infant Attachment: Secure vs. Insecure

good topics for compare contrast essay

Compare the stable and trusting nature of secure infant attachment with the varying forms of insecure attachment.

146. Dream Analysis: Symbolic vs. Literal Interpretation

good topics for compare contrast essay

Contrast the symbolic, deeper meanings in dream analysis with the straightforward, face-value interpretations.

Miscellaneous

147. Online Shopping vs. In-Store Shopping

Compare the convenience, pricing, and sensory experiences of these two retail environments.

148. Public Transportation vs. Private Transportation

Discuss the financial, environmental, and practical considerations of using public transit or owning a personal vehicle.

149. Extroversion vs. Introversion

Contrast the social preferences, energy sources, and communication styles of these two personality traits.

150. Owning a Car vs. Using Rideshare Services

Compare the costs, convenience, and environmental impacts of car ownership and ridesharing.

151. Coffee vs. Tea: Health Benefits and Preferences

Contrast the flavors, cultural significance, and health effects of these two popular beverages.

152. Digital vs. Film Photography

good topics for compare contrast essay

Contrast the tangible, chemical process of film photography with the pixel-based, electronic nature of digital photography.

153. Farmers Markets vs. Supermarkets

good topics for compare contrast essay

Compare the fresh, local offerings found at farmers’ markets with the wide, commercial variety offered at supermarkets.

154. Traditional Dating vs. Online Dating

good topics for compare contrast essay

Contrast the traditional face-to-face dynamics of traditional dating with the digital, screen-based experience of online dating.

155. Real vs. Artificial Plants in Home Décor

good topics for compare contrast essay

Compare the natural, organic aesthetics and benefits of real plants with the maintenance-free, lasting visuals of artificial plants.

156. Live Theater vs. Movie Theaters

good topics for compare contrast essay

Contrast the intimate, live experience of theater with the cinematic, large-scale experience of movie theaters.

157. DIY Projects vs. Professional Services

good topics for compare contrast essay

Delve into the personalized, hands-on nature of DIY projects versus the expertise and convenience of professional services.

158. Public vs. Private Spaces

good topics for compare contrast essay

Compare the shared, communal nature of public spaces with the intimate, controlled environments of private spaces.

159. Baking vs. Cooking

good topics for compare contrast essay

Contrast the precise, formulaic art of baking with the versatile, adaptive nature of cooking.

160. Satire vs. Parody

good topics for compare contrast essay

Delve into the subtle, societal critiques of satire versus the exaggerated, humorous imitations of parody.

161. Owning vs. Renting Properties

good topics for compare contrast essay

Compare the commitment and long-term benefits of owning properties with the flexibility and short-term nature of renting.

162. Parenting Styles: Authoritarian vs. Permissive

Discuss the long-term outcomes, child-parent relationships, and discipline strategies associated with these contrasting parenting approaches.

163. Sleep Patterns: Night Owls vs. Early Birds

Compare the productivity, lifestyle, and health implications of these two sleep preferences.

164. Traditional Books vs. Audiobooks

Contrast the sensory experiences, accessibility, and comprehension outcomes of reading print books and listening to audiobooks.

165. Fast Food vs. Home-Cooked Meals

Discuss the nutritional, financial, and time-related factors influencing the choice between these two meal options.

166. Saving Money vs. Spending Money

Compare the long-term financial stability, lifestyle, and personal satisfaction associated with these two approaches to managing personal finances.

167. Fiction vs. Nonfiction

Contrast the literary elements, educational value, and entertainment potential of these two genres of writing.

168. Handwritten Letters vs. Emails

Discuss the emotional impact, convenience, and permanence of these two forms of written communication.

169. Traditional Newspapers vs. Online News Sources

Compare the reliability, accessibility, and presentation of news in print and digital formats.

170. Cats vs. Dogs as Pets

Contrast the temperament, care requirements, and companionship qualities of these two popular pets.

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When you hear the words compare and contrast, the first thing that you might think of is the Venn Diagram. It is a visual representation of the similarities and differences between two subjects. However, compare and contrast topics are not limited to diagrams. They can also be the all-time favorite/nemesis of many students, representing just one type of direction they can go for when it’s time to pick a topic for the next college essay .

When you compare two subjects, you are analyzing what they have in common. On the other hand, when you contrast two subjects, you are looking at the things in which they differ. So, with that simple rule in mind, how do we write a compare and contrast essay?

Well, the goal of any compare and contrast essay topic is to analyze differences and similarities between two or more subjects. These types of essays also contain all the common essay parts, such as a thesis statement, introduction, body, and conclusion.

In this article:

1. Introduction

2. thesis statement, 4. conclusion, how to pick your compare and contrast topics, what to consider when writing a compare and contrast essay topic, you should:, you should not:, compare and contrast essay topics for college, compare and contrast essay topics for middle school, compare and contrast essay topics for high school students, funny compare and contrast essay topics, controversial compare and contrast essay topics, technology compare and contrast essay topics, economics compare and contrast essay topics, social media compare and contrast essay topics, sports compare and contrast essay topics, nature compare and contrast essay topics, movies and characters compare and contrast essay topics, literature compare and contrast essay topics, general parts of compare and contrast essays.

Let’s go over them one by one.

This is the part where you will give a general background of the subjects you will choose to compare and contrast. It should grab people’s attention and make them want to read more. Include a catchy hook to stimulate their engagement and interest. Also, this is the part where you will also introduce your thesis statement.

The statement contains the main point in your essay. Your thesis statement describes what significance you will assign to the subject matter under discussion. It is basically a road map for the paper. In other words, it explains to the reader what will follow in the body of the paper. Is an answer to the question directly asked by the reader.

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This is where you will compare and contrast your chosen subjects and elaborate even more on the topic. It is essential to emphasize specific points, use solid evidence, and make an in-depth analysis that your readers will understand. Don’t pick too many points at once. Choose the most relevant ones, present good analysis, and conclude with a sentence that explains the major point of the paragraph.

This is where you will re-emphasize your point so that your readers can finish your essay with a lasting impression. Usually, it summarizes the differences and similarities of the compare and contrast subjects you chose. Make a lasting impact on your readers by making a point that will be remembered long after your paper is graded.

Now that you know how to write a compare and contrast essay, it’s time for you to learn the three steps or tips on how to pick your topic.

1. Choose the two subjects of your interest that you want to compare and contrast. Make sure that they belong in the same category so that the comparison makes sense.

Example: Basketball vs. Volleyball

2. Brainstorm or list all things the two subjects have in common, as well as every unique thing about them and what they are both good at or worthy of. You do so to weigh their overall worth.

Example: Both are team sports and ball games, and they require teamwork too.

3. Come up with the main point you want to prove after comparing and contrasting them. Then, add the two subjects you have chosen and formulate a single topic you can write about.

Example: Basketball vs. Volleyball: Which is more strategic?

It is essential to pay attention to all details, small and large, when completing this academic assignment. The comparisons and contrasts should be connected. Brainstorm interesting topics, try to take a fresh look at them, and talk to your parents or other people to help you come up with a unique angle you may have not thought of.

It is also important to stick to a solid structure since all teachers pay attention to it. Take your audience into consideration and address matters they are interested in. Finally, make sure your essay has practical value by providing a list of comparisons and contrasts.

What should you keep in mind when writing a compare and contrast essay?

Here are the lists of things that you should follow and avoid in order to create your best compare and contrast essay paper.

1. Start every essay by providing a clear description of everything that needs to be contrasted and compared;

2. Research your chosen topic (use current and relevant data);

3. Introduce supporting information for your conclusion.

4. Ensure each section begins with a general idea and follows a certain structure.

5. Make sure all transitions and paragraphs are coherent because they ought to be interconnected logically.

1. Use more than one structure in one essay (always use the same structure throughout your piece of writing);

2. Forget transitional words (they indicate that you want to get from one idea to another and also improve the flow of your paper);

3. Have any personal feelings or preferences about the topics you chose to study, because you must remain objective and derive all necessary conclusions from existing data and not from feelings or emotions;

4. Disregard basic academic writing rules (avoid controversial language, spelling, or punctuation errors, and try to write your paper in a formal style).

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for College

Even though the compare and contrast topics we will show you are still considered topics for college students , they are a little bit more advanced mainly because they require more research, more studies, and more references. The main goal is to compare and contrast two subjects with a clear and straightforward thesis statement.

1. Written Test vs Performance Test: Which determines true excellence?

2. Regular Students vs Honor Students: Who will succeed in life faster?

3. Books vs E-books: Which is better for students?

4. Classroom Teaching vs. Online Teaching: Which is more effective?

5. Person with High EQ vs Person with High IQ: Who can make a difference?

6. Formal School vs Home School: Which works better?

7. True or False Exam vs Multiple Choice Exam: Which is more complicated?

8. Kind Teacher vs Strict Teacher: Who’s more effective?

9. Audio Presentation vs Video Presentation: Which is more effective?

10. Reading a Book or Listening to an Audio Book: Which is better?

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Middle School

Compare and contrast essay topics are not only for college students. In fact, they are often given to middle school students too. Even if the main flow of the essay is to compare and contrast, there are still great arguments that can arise from their young thoughts as to why they believe that one is better than the other. Speaking of arguments, if you are looking for argumentative essay topics, check out our other article on the subject. Now, back to our list of compare and contrast essay topics for middle school students:

1. Pizza vs Burger: Which is the best?

2. Super Mario vs Bomber Man: Which game is more exciting to play?

3. Yogurt vs Ice Cream: Which is better?

4. Mobile Games vs Computer Games: Which games more complicated?

5. Red Spaghetti vs White Spaghetti: Which is the best?

6. Singing a song vs Reciting a poem: Which is easier?

7. Apple vs Pear: Which tastes better?

8. Dark Chocolate vs Black Chocolate: Whis is the best?

9. Playing with friends vs Playing with classmates: Which is more enjoyable?

10. Papaya vs Avocado: Which tastes and smells better?

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for High School Students

These compare and contrast essay topics for high school students are not that technical and not too basic at the same time. Considering they will be written by high school students, the topics should be more complicated than the topics for middle school level, but not as complicated as the college level compare and contrast topics. The bottom line is they should trigger the assessment and reasoning skilsl of high school students.

1. Private High School vs Public High Schools: Which is a better choice?

2. In a Relationship vs Self-love: Which is better for a high school student?

3. Joining a Club vs Not Joining a Club: Which assures fun high school memories?

4. Making a lot of friends vs Making few friends: Which could bring more fun?

5. Long distance travel vs Short distance travel: Which is better?

6. Paid Schooling vs Scholarship Grant: Which assures future success?

8. English vs Mathematics: Which is more complicated?

9. Science vs History: Which is easier?

10. Co-curricular vs Extracurricular: Which is more important?

Funny Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

If you think about it, many everyday conversations and thoughts can turn into great compare and contrast topics if you know how to handle the facts and information for the subjects that you put under comparison. Always remind yourself that if your topic is funny or unusual enough to catch the attention of your teachers, it should also contain relevant and valuable information for them to give you a high score.

1. Today vs Tomorrow: When is the best time to die?

2. Monday vs Sunday: Which should come first?

3. Copper vs. Bronze: Which is better?

4. Egg vs Chicken: Which comes first?

5. Cats vs Dogs: Which one should stay at home?

6. Nuclear Apocalypse vs Zombie Apocalypse: Which one can we overcome? 

7. Washing clothes vs Washing the dishes: Which is more annoying?

8. Young People vs Old People: Who has a better lifestyle?

9. Taking your own photos vs Others taking your photo: Which photos look better?

10. Big City vs Small Town: Which gives a better life?

11. Chatting or Calling: Which is better?

12. Eating vs Sleeping: Which is more essential?

13. Your parents give you money vs You give money to your parents: Which feels better?

14. Portrait Painting vs Portrait Photo: Which is worthy of being displayed in a gallery?

15. Pink or Violet: Which color suits Spiderman the best?

Controversial Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Choosing controversial essay topics to compare and contrast is not a bad idea. However, you should be very careful when explaining your thoughts without offending your readers. Considering these topics are high-profile or sensitive, prepare yourself for a lot of good research.

1. Family vs Friend: Who’s more influential to your behavior?

2. Being with other people vs Being with yourself: Which is better for your mental health?

3. Living alone vs Living with family: Which works better for a college student?

4. Atheism vs Creationism: Which one should be considered true?

5. With Siblings vs Being an Only Child: Which is a happier life?

6. Book Reading vs Audiobook Listening: Which is more effective in learning?

7. Cheating on Exam or Plagiarizing an Essay: Which is the worst student mistake?

8. Democracy vs Dictatorship: Which is needed by countries nowadays?

9. Abortion vs Giving the baby away for adoption

10. President vs Prime Minister: Who’s more respectable?

11. Islam vs Christianity: Depth of Faith

12. Buddhism vs Hinduism: Which has the most peculiar rules?

13. Muhammad vs Moses: Life of a chosen prophet

14. Quran vs Bible: Holy teachings for the humanity

15. Fasting vs Abstinence: Which is better?

Technology Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Young people know everything about the latest technology so they can easily pick a topic to write about. It is both timely and relevant, which the readers would definitely enjoy. Considering the fact that you will be writing about technology, detailed how-tos, and vivid description is a must. This way, your readers would be engaged.

1. Laptop vs Desktop: Which is better?

2. Phone or Tablet: Which is more helpful?

3. Wi-Fi or Data: Which is more efficient?

4. Oven vs Microwave: Which is better?

5. Wired or Wireless: Which is the best for Internet connection?

6. Macs vs Windows: Which performs the best?

7. Android vs iPhone: Which is more efficient?

8. Physical Storage vs Cloud Storage: Which is more student-friendly?

9. Google Chrome vs Microsoft Edge: Which is the best browser?

10. MS Word vs G Documents: Which is the best writing platform?

11. Gas Cars vs Electric Cars: Which is a wiser choice?

12. Airplane vs Ship: Which is the best transportation?

13. Bus vs Train: Which is a better option?

14. Bicycle vs Motorcycle: Which is more practical?

15. Van vs SUV: Which is better?

Economics Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Writing about the latest ventures in the economy can also turn into a good compare and contrast essay topic. It will show how much you know and care about the economy in your generation. Writing about the economy will not only teach you about the new trends but will also open your interest to venture into them in the future.

1. Traditional Marketing vs Digital Marketing: Which works better?

2. Branding vs Marketing: Which determines business success?

3. SEO vs GMB: Which is better for business?

4. Real Currency vs Cryptocurrency: Which will stay longer?

5. Physical Business vs Online Business: Which is better?

Social Media Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Social media plays a huge role in our everyday lives. So, a compare and contrast essay topic on social media is relatable for most people. Therefore, you won’t have a hard time getting people interested in reading since they can relate to any social media topic.

1. TikTok vs YouTube: Which is the best video streaming site?

2. Facebook vs Twitter: Which is more updated on trends?

3. Meet vs Zoom: Which is better?

4. Snapchat vs Instagram: Which has the best photo filters?

5. Blogger vs Medium: Which is the best blogging site?

Sports Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Writing about sports is a great idea too. Sports is simply one of the most interesting things for most people. If you choose to compare and contrast two different sports games, you will definitely catch the attention of your reader especially if they are sports enthusiasts.

1. Basketball vs. Volleyball: Which is more strategic?

2. Football vs Baseball: Which is more popular?

3. Field Hockey vs Ice Hockey: Which is better?

4. Fencing vs Kendo: Which is more complicated?

5. American Football vs Rugby: Which is more physically challenging?

Nature Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Nature-related topics are great too. There are so many great compare and contrast topics about nature we can come up with and write a lot about. Comparing and contrasting two ideas will always be great if your readers can visualize them too. Therefore, writing about these topics is definitely a safe move. All you need to do is to add interesting and relevant information for your reader to get engaged even more.

1. Sunny vs Rainy: Which is the best?

2. Mountains vs Seas: Which is the better view?

3. Summer vs Winter: Which is the best season?

4. Bird vs Fish: Which animal has better characteristics?

5. Hot Spring vs Cold Spring: Which is better?

6. Tornado vs Whirlpool: Which is more deadly?

7. Day or Night: Which is more important?

8. Wildlife vs Marine Life: Which is more sustainable?

9. Sun vs Moon: Which is more important?

10. Air Pollution vs Water Pollution: Which can be solved faster?

Movies and Characters Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

There’s nothing more interesting than comparing and contrasting two movies or two characters. The readers will also be fascinated to know more about a movie they love. Going for a compare and contrast topic that’s movie or character related will certainly trigger the curiosity of your reader, especially if you put in some extra work and present little known facts and information about those movies or characters. 

1. Harry Potter vs The Lord of the Rings: Which is the best fantasy movie?

2. Titanic vs Pearl Harbor: Which film is more tragic?

3. Conjuring vs Insidious: Which is more frightening?

4. Marvel vs DC: Which has the coolest heroes?

5. Maze Runner vs Hunger Games: Which has the best storyline?

6. Mr. Bean vs Charlie Chaplin: Who’s acts are funnier?

7. Avengers vs Justice League: Which has the strongest heroes?

8. Moana vs Raya: Who had the most interesting adventure?

9. Superman vs Batman: Who is better?

10. Zathura vs Jumanji: Which has the best storyline?

11. Dumbledore vs Gandalf: Who is stronger?

12. Iron Man vs Batman: Who’s more high-tech?

13. Zeus vs. Jupiter: Who’s the mightiest?

14. Venus vs Aphrodite: Who’s the most beautiful?

15. Captain Marvel vs Wonder Woman: Who is stronger?

Literature Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Literature can be serious but it can also inspire you to come up with a great topic for your upcoming essay. Your language and literature teachers will surely appreciate your compare and contrast essay topic even more if you write about a topic they know about. It will definitely involve them because they are highly familiar with these topics. However, that over-familiarity is also a challenge. You have to go an extra mile and give them something they haven’t read or known yet.

1. Short Story vs Novel: Which is better?

2. Fiction vs Nonfiction: Which has more significance?

3. Prose or Poetry: Which is more artistic?

4. Sci-Fi vs Fantasy: Which is better?

5. Poem vs Songs: Which is more sophisticated?

In this article, you have found out that when you compare and contrast you must have two subjects that are of equal value or that belong to the same criteria. Also, we hope you found out that comparing two subjects can be fun and easy. Still, don’t forget that your essay should be factual, relevant, and logical. 

Also, you have to remember that even though you can compare and contrast two subjects throughout your essay, you have to make sure that you have stated or made your point clear. That way, your essay will be more impactful and it will make more sense.

Furthermore, most readers (especially teachers and professors), would love your compare and contrast essay if you have successfully and clearly stated your main intention or reason why you chose to put those subjects under comparison.

So, the next time your teacher asks you to pick a topic for your essay, slay the task and hit a high score with a great compare and contrast essay topic.

What do you think of this article? Did it help you find the perfect compare and contrast essay topic? If so, don’t forget to share it with your friends and classmates!

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80 Intriguing Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

Android vs. iPhone? Capitalism vs. communism? Hot dog vs. taco?

First day of school vs. the last day of school.

In compare and contrast essays , writers show the similarities and differences between two things. They combine descriptive writing with analysis, making connections and showing dissimilarities. Remind students that in this type of writing, they’re not necessarily trying to sway the reader to one opinion or another—they’re just presenting and analyzing facts. These compare and contrast essay topics will give them plenty of practice.

  • School and Life Essay Topics
  • Entertainment Essay Topics
  • History and Politics Essay Topics
  • Just for Fun Essay Topics

School and Life Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Public and private schools
  • Online school and in-person school
  • Any two schools or colleges
  • Going to college vs. starting work full-time

Going to college vs. starting work full-time

  • Working your way through college as you go or taking out student loans
  • Parents and grandparents
  • Elementary school and high school
  • Learning to read vs. learning to write
  • The importance of any two school subjects
  • Wearing glasses vs. having braces
  • You and your best friend
  • Friendship vs. romantic love

Friendship vs. romantic love

  • Group work and individual work
  • Only child vs. having siblings
  • Nature vs. nurture
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Old friends and new friends
  • Your teacher vs. your parent/guardian
  • Car ownership and public transportation

Car ownership and public transportation

  • Learning to ride a bike vs. learning to drive a car

Entertainment Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • iPhone vs. Android
  • Instagram vs. Twitter (or choose any other two social media platforms)
  • Xbox vs. PlayStation

Xbox vs. PlayStation

  • Any two sports, like American football vs. soccer
  • Cooking at home and dining out
  • A movie based on a book and the book it was based on
  • Reading and watching TV
  • Opera music and pop music (or any two music genres)
  • Vegetarian and vegan

Vegetarian and vegan

  • Giving and receiving gifts
  • Going to a play vs. going to a movie
  • Playing a video game and watching a movie
  • Horse racing vs. NASCAR
  • Laptop vs. tablet
  • Sprint vs. marathon
  • Poetry and rap music
  • Ping-Pong vs. tennis
  • DC vs. Marvel
  • Netflix and YouTube
  • Shopping online and shopping in person

Shopping online and shopping in person

History and Politics Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Capitalism vs. communism
  • Socialism vs. communism
  • Monarchy/dictatorship and democracy
  • Two political candidates in a current race

Two political candidates in a current race

  • Spanish flu pandemic vs. COVID-19 pandemic
  • World War I and World War II
  • American pioneers vs. first space explorers
  • Gen X vs. Gen Z
  • Abraham Lincoln vs. Barack Obama (or any other two presidents)
  • Any two U.S. states

Any two U.S. states

  • Any two historic eras
  • Queen Elizabeth I vs. Queen Elizabeth II
  • Republicans and Democrats
  • Hitler and Stalin
  • The first airplane flight vs. the first manned spaceflight
  • American president vs. U.K. prime minister

American president vs. U.K. prime minister

  • Fox News vs. CNN
  • Legislative branch and executive branch and/or judicial branch
  • Equality and equity
  • Elected politicians vs. lobbyists

Just for Fun Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Dogs vs. cats as pets

Dogs vs. cats as pets

  • Paper books or e-books
  • Hot dogs vs. tacos
  • Summer and winter
  • Fall and spring
  • Big Mac vs. Whopper
  • Coke vs. Pepsi
  • Chocolate shake vs. hot chocolate
  • Any two superheroes or villains
  • Mondays and Fridays
  • Mornings vs. evenings

Mornings vs. evenings

  • First day of school vs. last day of school
  • Christmas vs. birthdays
  • Hurricane vs. tornado
  • Birthday as a kid and birthday as an adult
  • Going barefoot vs. wearing shoes
  • Appetizers and desserts

Appetizers and desserts

  • Phone calls and texting
  • Pants vs. skirts
  • Electric cars vs. gas-powered cars

What are some of your favorite compare and contrast essay topics? Come share your prompts on the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out the big list of essay topics for high school (100+ ideas).

80 Intriguing Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

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100 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Can you name 10 catchy compare and contrast essay topics? If you can, that’s great! But as practice shows, most students struggle with thinking of this many themes, and when they have to write an essay, they waste days on figuring out what it should be about.  Comparing and contrasting  something is a frequent task professors of various colleges assign. It entails choosing two or more objects of a common nature and exploring their differences as well as similarities.

The goal of such essays is to stimulate writers’ critical thinking and make them learn the basics of analysis. As time goes on, you’ll be facing more and more complex academic assignments where you’ll have to conduct many-layered research and look into the core of a subject. Comparison & contrast is one of the first stages of work that help develop these skills, so it’s extremely important. But before you proceed, you must settle on an interesting topic. We’re going to assist you in doing that.

Tips for Selecting Topics for Compare and Contrast Essay

So, how to find what to write about? You could always brainstorm with your friends or classmates. Even professors could be of great help — in many cases, they provide lists with topics, so your choice is already limited. But if you’re given an option of researching your own idea, there are some tips that could help you make a decision.

  • Think back on your interests.  The first rule of essay writing is, choose a topic you like. If you have no interest in the subject, it’s doubtful that you’ll be able to evoke any enthusiasm in your readers. So consider your hobbies or things that make your eyes light up in excitement. Maybe you love reading and feel frustrated because your friends choose computer games over books. Comparing and contrasting these activities could be interesting. Or perhaps you love a country few people know about: compare it against one of the tourists’ favorites. Opportunities are never-ending here.
  • Choose the nature of your subject.  For this kind of essay, you’ll need objects that fall roughly into the same category. For example, you cannot compare an animal with a fruit because they represent two different spheres with no real similarities. Your topic has to make sense, so select between activities, books, movies, approaches, music styles, etc. You could choose compare and contrast essay topics for kids, high schoolers, or adults — there is virtually endless space for explorations.
  • Check your objectivity.  An important thing is that you shouldn’t write about a topic that’s too abstract, generic, or personal. The last point seemingly contradicts the first tip (about choosing something you love), but all depends on a good balance here. Being invested in your subject is a must, but being intensely passionate about it might not be the best idea. For instance, if you want to compare two different versions of Sherlock Holmes adaptation, where you hate one but love another, you might lose objectivity. Remember that essays should be academic and evidence-based — your feelings shouldn’t take precedence.
  • Look through inspirational lists.  You could always consult online lists for getting more tips. You’ll find different ideas there — even if you don’t locate something that fits your interests 100%, you could twist these ideas until they work for you.

100 Unique Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for College Students

We brainstormed and made up 100 possible topics for your exploration. For helping you narrow them down, we further broke them into 10 various categories, so check them all out carefully. Feel free to pick anything you like and change it in accordance with your own preferences.

Compare and Contrast Essay Ideas For College Students

Education has different levels of complexity. If you are a college student, then you might be interested in the following comparison topics.

  • Cockney vs. Received Pronunciation: What Makes Them Different?
  • How Does College Differ From High School?
  • Why Do Some Authors Write Short Stories While Others Prefer Long Ones?
  • Difference Between Argumentative and Persuasive Essays: Which Are Easier to Write?
  • Tea or Coffee: What Drink Is Healthier
  • American vs. Australian System of Education in Terms of Efficiency
  • Learning Foreign Language with a Tutor versus By Oneself
  • High School and College Parties: What Differentiates Them?
  • Funeral Traditions in Different Countries
  • Two Cars Competing for the Title of the Safest

Topics For High School Students

Now let’s regard some compare and contrast essay topics for high school students. They are a bit easier than the ones for college level.

  • Living with Father or Mother: What Differentiates Such Upbringings?
  • How Male Communication Tactics Differs From Female Ones
  • What Do Love and Hatred Have in Common & How Are They Different?
  • Ice-cream or Cake: Tastier and Healthier Choice
  • Using Cars or Riding a Bicycle?
  • Academic vs. Fictional Kinds Essays: Common and Different Aspects
  • Should Elders Get a Dog or a Cat?
  • Adopting Pets versus Buying Them
  • Travelling by Car or by Bus: Advantages & Disadvantages
  • Chinese vs. Japanese Culture: Intricacies and Stereotypes Surrounding Them

Medical Field

Medicine is a complex and fascinating sphere, especially now, when it’s so relevant. If you like it, check these college level compare contrast essay topics.

  • Life Before & After Coronavirus: Main Common and Opposite Features
  • Old-Fashioned or Unique Ways of Treatment?
  • Medical Education in Australia and US: Complexities and Length
  • Eating Ice-Cream During a Cold versus Staying Away From It
  • How Doctors Work in Real Life vs. How Their Actions Are Portrayed in Fiction
  • Surgeons Operating on Humans & Animals: How Does Their Work Differ?
  • Being a Nurse or a Doctor: Scope of Responsibilities & Payment
  • Working as a Doctor in Third-World versus First-World Countries
  • Compare & Contrast Two Different Medical Universities
  • Injections Done by Nurses versus Family Members

Art and Literature Compare and Contrast Essay Topic Ideas

If you are an art lover, look through these ideas for compare and contrast essays. Maybe something will resonate with you: after all, there are billions of books and paintings in the world.

  • Bella Swan and Katniss Everdeen: What Makes These Characters Similar & Different?
  • Art History of France and Italy: What Unites Them?
  • What Helps to Differentiate Between Biography and Autobiography?
  • Fiction vs. Nonfiction: What People Prefer Which Genre?
  • Art Created by Able and Disabled People
  • Popular Artists Now vs. In the Past: What Determined People’s Love for Them?
  • Writing by Following a Prompt vs Focusing on One’s Own Ideas
  • What Is Constructive & Cruel Criticism?
  • Movie and Book With the Same Plot: How Are They Different?
  • Working Daily vs. Working Only When Inspiration Strikes

History Compare and Contrast Essay Prompts

There are so many events in history that you could choose practically any good compare and contrast essay topics.

  • WW1 Against WW2: What Different and Similar Reasons Did They Have?
  • Communism and Fascism: Are There Any Significant Differences or Similarities?
  • Obama or Trump: What Was Their Presidency About?
  • Two Most Influential Kings in the World: How Could They Be Defined?
  • Fascist Germany with the US: What Do These Giant Countries Have in Common?
  • How Homosexuality Was Treated Before 2010 and After It
  • Female Rights in First-World vs. Third-World Countries
  • Queen Victoria vs. King Louis XIV: Differences in Governments
  • How Propaganda Worked in 20th & 21st Centuries: Methods and Degrees of Effectiveness
  • Two Most Cruel Punishments of the Past and In Modern Times: What Unites Them?

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Sports and Games

This sector has lots of funny compare and contrast essay topics. If you like having a good time and want to explore something in this sphere, you might like these options.

  • How Sport Was Performed Before & After Covid
  • Selling Players versus Buying Players: Principle of Operations
  • Teens Who Committed Crimes After Playing Violent Video Games & Those Who Did Not
  • Playing Online Games or Physical Ones: Key Linking Elements
  • Online sport vs. Physical Sport: How Are They Classified?
  • Football in the US & Argentina: Are They the Same?
  • Professional Boxing versus Amateur Boxing: Dangers and Rewards
  • Chess or Baseball Matches: Levels of Excitement
  • Running or Swimming: Ways of Becoming Healthy
  • Being a Sportsman or a Fan: Which Is More Exciting?

Psychology Compare and Contrast Topics

Understanding people or reasons for their behaviour is extremely captivating, so if you feel passionate about this sector, choose a similar topic for compare and contrast essay.

  • Getting Married & Getting Divorced: Two Natural Life Occurrences
  • Children Growing Up in Abusive Households vs. Those From Healthy Families: Life Adjustment
  • Mindsets of People Choosing to be Doctors & Killers: What Motivates Them?
  • How Poor versus Rich View Life
  • What People Think That Dark Fiction Should Be Banned & Which Ones Welcome It
  • People Who Quit Their Work versus Those Who Stay No Matter What
  • How Girls Treat Their Mothers & How Boys Do That
  • Parents Who Punish Children Physically and Those Who Use Psychological Methods
  • Bad & Good Psychologists: What Harm They Could Cause
  • People Who Scream When Angry vs. People Who Cry Under the Same Circumstances

Philosophical Ideas

Check these compare and contrast topic ideas: philosophy is so full of possibilities that exploring them never gets old.

  • Loving Rain & Hating It
  • Staying Home or Going to Paris? Pros & Cons
  • Fans of Escapism & Those Who Despise It
  • Compare & Contrast Two Known Philosophers, Their Ideas, & Beliefs
  • People Who Choose Love and Those Choosing Hatred
  • Forgiveness & Rejection: Describe Everything That Unites and Differentiates Them
  • Real Differences Between People & Animals
  • How Philosophy Is Defined in Greece & Russia
  • Contrast and Compare Any Three People From Philosophical Viewpoint
  • Compare the Most Dangerous Philosophies

Business and Economics Compare and Contrast Essays Topics

Business is a vast as well as controversial sector. We’ve chosen the best compare and contrast essay topics that students could explore.

  • Benefits Coming From Honest vs. Dishonest Business Strategies
  • Compare Two Economic Principles
  • Starting Company in Ukraine & in Britain
  • Poor & Good Economy: How to Tell a Difference?
  • Going to Business School or Self-Teaching Oneself?
  • Strategies Used by the Poorest vs. the Richest Firms
  • Contrast & Compare Two Prominent Businessman : How They Reached Success
  • Compare How Old & New Economics Function
  • Analyze Two Different Business Models
  • People Interested in Economy and Those Bored By It

Technology and Social Media Ideas

It is difficult to find a person who wouldn’t be using technology or social platforms these days. Look at these easy compare and contrast essay topics — you might like some of them!

  • iPhone or Smartphone: What Is More Popular & Convenient?
  • Facebook or Twitter: Compare Their Target Group
  • Possibilities Offered by Tumblr vs. Facebook
  • Having Friends Online or Having Them in Real Life?
  • Writing Essay by Yourself & Having Someone Do It Instead
  • Online Editions of Newspapers & Their Physical Copies
  • Calling or Texting: Which Way Is Better & More Useful?
  • People Working from Home & Those Working in Offices: Who Is More Satisfied?
  • Paying for Discs or Pirating Movies: Advantages & Disadvantages
  • Paying for Online or Physical Ads: Benefits

Choose Among Good Compare and Contrast Topics

Writing an essay could be interesting as long as you enjoy your research. With how many things surround us, choosing a topic for an essay is far easier than it seems. Look around yourself: what are your hobbies? What are things that you argued about or wanted to explore? Make them into a topic. If you’re feeling you cannot cope on your own, turn to the Internet: this platform is vital because it could boost your creativity together with inspiration. Find a comparison and contrast topic you love and you’ll see how enjoyable essay writing could be.

Can’t come up with a topic for you paper? We’ve prepared a collection of essay topics for you

Want to write a winning essay but lack experience? Browse our free essay samples

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Compare And Contrast Essay Examples & Samples

Learn How to Create a Compare and Contrast Essay Outline - With Examples & Tips

Drawing comparisons to make the right decisions is part of our day-to-day life. However, students feel confused and puzzled when asked to draft a compare and contrast essay.

The first difficulty that a writer witnesses while drafting a compare and contrast essay is choosing the right essay topic. The more interesting topic you will choose for your essay, the better grades you will achieve in the assignment. 

To make the selection process easier, we have gathered some great compare and contrast essay topics. 

Read on to find out how to find good and easy compare and contrast essay ideas that you can pick from our extensive list of prompts. 

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  • 1. Compare and Contrast Essay - Overview
  • 2. Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for University Students
  • 3. College Level Compare and Contrast Essay Topics
  • 4. Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for High School Students
  • 5. Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Middle School
  • 6. Best Compare and Contrast Essay Topics For Elementary Students 
  • 7. History Compare and Contrast Essay Topics
  • 8. Science Compare and Contrast Essay Topics 
  • 9. Sports Compare and Contrast Essay Topics
  • 10. Psychology Compare and Contrast Essay Topics
  • 11. Literature & Language Compare and Contrast Essay Topics 
  • 12. Education Compare and Contrast Essay Topics
  • 13. Social Sciences Compare and Contrast Essay Topics 
  • 14. Arts and Culture Compare and Contrast Essay Topics 
  • 15. Funny Compare and Contrast Essay Topics
  • 16. Controversial Compare and Contrast Essay Topics
  • 17. Movie Compare and Contrast Essay Topics
  • 18. Good Compare and Contrast Essay Topics
  • 19. Fun Compare and Contrast Essay Topics  
  • 20. Unique Compare and Contrast Essay Topics
  • 21. Deep Compare and Contrast Essay Topics
  • 22. Medical Compare and Contrast Essay Topics
  • 23. Healthcare Compare and Contrast Essay Topics 
  • 24. Compare and Contrast Essay Topics on Technology
  • 25. Entertainment Compare and Contrast Essay Topics 
  • 26. Compare and Contrast Essay Topics on Economy
  • 27. Compare and Contrast Essay Topics on Politics
  • 28. How to Choose a Topic for a Compare and Contrast Essay? 

Compare and Contrast Essay - Overview

A compare and contrast essay is a type of essay that explains how two or more subjects are different or similar.

The purpose of this essay is to examine two things and find out how they are similar and different. When writing a compare and contrast essay, it's important to consider the relevance of each characteristic being compared. This will help you decide which characteristics are most worth exploring.

Here’s a video that explains compare and contrast essay in more depth:

If you have not decided on the topic as yet, get inspired by the topic ideas given below:

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for University Students

  • Compare the education systems of the United States and the United Kingdom.
  • Compare and contrast the themes and characters in two classic novels of your choice.
  • Compare the democratic systems of the United States and European countries.
  • Compare the impact of Eastern and Western philosophies on modern society.
  • Compare and contrast the theories of Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung.
  • Compare the economic systems of capitalism and socialism.
  • Compare the theories of evolution and creationism in the context of biology.
  • Compare the impact of World War I and World War II on global politics and society.
  • Compare the role of women in society in the 19th and 21st centuries.
  • Compare and contrast classical music and contemporary pop music.

College Level Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Check out these compare and contrast essay topics for college students.

  • School vs. College - Which is more difficult?
  • Employed vs. unemployed students
  • Research papers vs. Essays
  • American Culture vs. British 
  • Education vs. employment
  • IELTS vs. TOEFL
  • Graduate vs. Postgraduate student
  • Argumentative vs. Persuasive essays
  • Android vs. iOS
  • Online writing vs. traditional writing

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for High School Students

  • John Locke against Thomas Hobbes
  • George Bush vs. Donald Trump
  • Bill Gates and Steve Jobs
  • Prince and Michael Jackson
  • Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi
  • Abraham Lincoln and Winston Churchill
  • Adolf Hitler and Mussolini
  • Margaret Thatcher and Theresa May
  • Jon Bon Jovi and Elvis Presley.
  • Socrates and Plato

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Middle School

  • Playing video games vs. reading a book
  • Real communication vs. texting
  • Apple vs. Pear
  • Giving vs. Getting presents - Which is more pleasant?
  • Long hair or short hair
  • Cats vs. Dogs
  • King Arthur vs. Zeus
  • Watching a film at home vs. in cinema
  • Dictators vs. School bullies
  • Hurricane vs. Tsunami

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics 9th Grade 

  • Comparing the Dangers of On-Screen Screen Time vs Outdoor Activities
  • Contrasting Ancient Rome and Modern America
  • Online Classes vs On-campus Classes
  • School Uniforms vs Casual Dress Code
  • Homeschooling vs. Public Schooling
  • Video Games vs. Movies
  • Reading Books vs Watching Movies
  • Examining the Impact of Social Media on Teenage Lives
  • Comparing Private Schools to Public Schools
  • Exploring the Advantages and Disadvantages of City Life vs Country Life.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics For 7th Grade 

  • Nighttime vs. Daytime
  • Sleeping vs. Being active
  • Running & Walking
  • Summer & Winter
  • Comic books and TV shows
  • Halloween or prom night? - Which one is more fun?
  • Riding or driving - Which is more difficult?
  • Swimming vs. cycling 
  • Brazil team vs. Manning team
  • Evening exercise vs. morning exercise 

Easy Compare And Contrast Essay Topics for 6th Grade

  • Compare quotes from known celebrities
  • Books of famous writers
  • Rap songs and Pop Songs
  • Reptiles vs. Mammals
  • Shaggy vs. Fred
  • Renting and owning things
  • Italy vs. Spain
  • Is living in a house better than a flat?
  • Compare and contrast between adulthood and childhood.
  • Superman vs. Spiderman

Best Compare and Contrast Essay Topics For Elementary Students 

  • Facebook or Instagram
  • Fast food vs. healthy meal
  • Public school vs. Private school
  • Parental control or full freedom
  • Good teacher vs. a bad teacher
  • Online vs. Traditional shopping
  • Chinese vs. American beauty concepts
  • Rock vs. Classical music
  • Apartment vs. House
  • University professors vs. School teachers

History Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Renaissance and Baroque Art
  • US President vs. British Prime Minister
  • Fascism and Totalitarianism
  • Religious Studies vs. Anthropology
  • America vs. Soviet Government
  • Gandhi and Jinnah’s political approaches
  • Communism vs. Liberalism
  • Make a comparison between Russian emperors
  • Iran pre and post monarchy
  • Karl Marx and Friedrich Hegel

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Science Compare and Contrast Essay Topics 

  • Astronomy vs. Astrology
  • Chemistry vs. Physics
  • Nature vs. Nurture in Psychology
  • Renewable Energy vs. Fossil Fuels
  • Biotechnology vs. Genetic Engineering
  • Climate Change vs. Natural Climate Variability
  • Quantum Mechanics vs. Classical Physics
  • Space Exploration vs. Ocean Exploration
  • Animal Behavior vs. Human Behavior
  • Artificial Intelligence vs. Human Intelligence

Sports Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Sports vs. Exercise - Which is better for health?
  • Table tennis vs. Lawn tennis
  • Football vs. Soccer
  • Basketball vs. Baseball
  • Breakdance vs. ballet
  • Steroids vs. Energy drinks - More harmful to athletes?
  • Women’s vs. men’s basketball
  • Australian vs. Indian cricket team
  • The Bundesliga vs. The English Premier League
  • Barcelona vs. Real Madrid

Psychology Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Psychology and Psychiatry
  • Nature vs. Nurture
  • Therapy vs. Medication
  • Rehabilitation Advantages and Disadvantages
  • Autism vs. Down Syndrome
  • Suicide and Homicide
  • Smoking and Vaping
  • Impact of social media on people and depression
  • Stress and Depression
  • Compare Theories of J. Watson and B. Skinner.

Literature & Language Compare and Contrast Essay Topics 

  • Shakespearean Tragedies vs. Comedies
  • Poetry vs. Prose
  • Classic Literature vs. Contemporary Literature
  • Fiction vs. Non-Fiction
  • First-Person vs. Third-Person Narration
  • Modern English vs. Old English
  • The Use of Symbolism in Poetry vs. Prose
  • Gothic Literature vs. Romantic Literature
  • Literary Realism vs. Magical Realism
  • Literary Criticism vs. Reader Response Theory

Education Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • SAT vs. IELTS
  • Scientific Paper vs. Academic Writing
  • Science and Art
  • Professional vs. Skill Degree
  • Essay Writing and Research Paper
  • What is the difference between Public and Private School students?
  • Casual Clothing vs. Uniforms
  • University and College
  • Gender studies and Women's Studies
  • Sociology and Anthropology

Social Sciences Compare and Contrast Essay Topics 

  • Democracy vs. Authoritarianism
  • Capitalism vs. Socialism
  • Traditional Education vs. Online Learning
  • Urban Living vs. Rural Living
  • Gender Roles in Modern Society vs. Traditional Societies
  • Individualism vs. Collectivism
  • Globalization vs. Cultural Diversity
  • Social Media vs. Face-to-Face Communication
  • Environmental Conservation vs. Economic Development
  • Cybersecurity vs. Privacy Rights

Arts and Culture Compare and Contrast Essay Topics 

  • Classical Art vs. Contemporary Art
  • Film vs. Theater
  • Traditional Dance vs. Modern Dance
  • Literature vs. Film Adaptations
  • High Culture vs. Popular Culture
  • Museum Exhibitions vs. Art Galleries
  • Classical Music vs. Contemporary Music
  • Traditional Architecture vs. Modern Architecture
  • Fashion Trends vs. Historical Costume
  • Cultural Festivals vs. Music Festivals

Funny Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Here are some fun compare and contrast essay topics for light-hearted essays

  • Moonwalk vs. Gangnam Style
  • Xbox vs. PlayStation
  • Growing a tree vs. raising a child
  • Being single vs. in a relationship
  • Drugs or Coffee - Which is better to improve performance?
  • Morse code vs. Beethoven’s fifth symphony
  • Love or friendship
  • Apple vs. Samsung
  • Live-in relationship vs. marriage
  • Barbie vs. Bratz

Controversial Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Gun Control vs. Second Amendment Rights
  • Pro-choice vs. Pro-life
  • Capital Punishment vs. Life Imprisonment
  • Censorship vs. Freedom of Expression
  • Climate Change Denial vs. Environmental Activism
  • Globalization vs. Protectionism
  • Legalization vs. Criminalization of Drugs
  • AI Advancements vs. Job Displacement
  • Universal Healthcare vs. Private Healthcare
  • The Role of Government vs. Individual Liberty

Movie Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Comedy vs. horror movies
  • Vampires of Twilight vs. Vampire diaries
  • Avengers vs. Fantastic Four
  • DC or Marvel
  • Normal vs. 3D screening
  • Dumbledore vs. Voldemort
  • Michael Jackson vs. Prince
  • Netflix or Youtube
  • Bollywood vs. Hollywood
  • Mystery vs. Crime movies

Good Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Football in 20th vs. 21st Century
  • Sociology vs. psychology
  • Bipolar Disorder vs. Epilepsy
  • Strict Parenting vs. Relaxed Parenting
  • Ego vs. Superego
  • Soft Drugs vs. Hard Drugs
  • Traditional vs. online education
  • Homeschooling vs. traditional education
  • Testing or stress-free education
  • Studying languages vs. sciences

Fun Compare and Contrast Essay Topics  

  • Wizards vs. Witches: Magical Showdown
  • Summer Festivals vs. Winter Carnivals: Seasonal Celebrations
  • Metropolis Madness vs. Country Calm: Where to Live?
  • Adventures in Middle-earth vs. Galaxy Far, Far Away: Epic Journeys
  • Social Butterflies vs. Snap-happy Explorers: Social Media Stars
  • Pizza Palooza vs. Burger Bonanza: Foodie Face-off
  • High School Hijinks vs. College Capers: Student Life
  • Road Trippin' vs. Jet Settin': Travel Adventures
  • Campfire Chronicles vs. Hotel Hideaways: Outdoor Escapes
  • Mozart vs. Morrison: Musical Masterminds

Unique Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Renaissance vs. Baroque Art
  • Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing in the Digital Age.
  • Exploration of Dreams in Psychology vs. Literature.
  • The Impact of Video Games vs. Literature on Storytelling.
  • Natural Medicine vs. Conventional Medicine
  • Shakespearean Sonnets vs. Modern Song Lyrics
  • Eastern and Western Approaches to Meditation and Mindfulness.
  • Ancient Greek Democracy vs. Modern Democratic Systems.
  • The Internet's Effect on Traditional Journalism vs. Citizen Journalism.
  • Family members vs. Friends in tough life decisions  

Deep Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Paintings vs. photos
  • Superman vs. Batman
  • Harry Potter Books vs. Movies
  • Pride and Prejudice vs. The Great Gatsby
  • Mission Impossible 1 vs. 6
  • Game of Thrones vs. The Witcher
  • Apple or Google Pixel
  • Free college education.
  • Silver vs. gold.
  • Old vs. new: analyzing the similarities

Medical Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Vaccination or medications
  • Female vs. male doctors
  • All-natural cures vs. chemical cures
  • Alternative medicine vs. traditional medicine
  • Soft Drugs s. Hard Drugs
  • Should medical marijuana be approved on the federal level?
  • Traditional vs. modern medicine
  • Old-fashioned or unique ways of treatment
  • Doctor vs. nurse
  • Medicine vs. herbal

Healthcare Compare and Contrast Essay Topics 

  • Traditional Medicine vs. Modern Medicine
  • Telemedicine vs. In-Person Doctor Visits
  • Mental Health vs. Physical Health Care
  • Vaccination vs. Natural Immunity
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine vs. Western Medicine
  • Healthcare in Developed vs. Developing Countries
  • Public Health vs. Personal Health
  • Hospital Care vs. Home Healthcare
  • Healthcare Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics on Technology

  • Traditional vs. Online Commerce
  • Mobile phones vs. tablets
  • E-readers vs. traditional paper books
  • iPhone or Smartphone
  • Artificial intelligence vs. cloud computing
  • Online photos vs. camera photos
  • Traditional TV or streaming platforms
  • Laptops or tablets
  • Cloud computing vs. traditional computing
  • Robots vs. humans

Entertainment Compare and Contrast Essay Topics 

  • Live Concerts vs. Music Streaming Services
  • Hollywood Films vs. Independent Movies
  • Video Games vs. Board Games
  • Fiction Books vs. Non-Fiction Books
  • Stand-Up Comedy vs. Improv Comedy
  • Theater Plays vs. Movie Adaptations
  • Cable TV vs. Streaming Services
  • Action Movies vs. Romantic Comedies
  • Pop Music vs. Hip-Hop Music
  • Classical Art vs. Street Art

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics on Economy

  • Keynesian Economics vs. Supply-Side Economics
  • Market Economy vs. Planned Economy
  • Microeconomics vs. Macroeconomics
  • Economic Development vs. Economic Growth
  • Fiscal Policy vs. Monetary Policy
  • Developed Countries vs. Developing Countries' Economies
  • Income Inequality in Capitalist vs. Socialist Economies
  • The Great Depression vs. the 2008 Financial Crisis
  • Trade Protectionism vs. Free Trade
  • Economic Impact of COVID-19 vs. Other Major Crises

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics on Politics

  • Different models of democracy
  • Republicans vs. Democrats
  • Democracy and communism
  • The political system of US vs. UK
  • Margaret Thatcher vs. Barack Obama;
  • Good vs. bad politics
  • American politics vs. British politics
  • Parliamentary vs. presidential
  • World war I vs. World War II
  • Rural politics vs. urban politics

How to Choose a Topic for a Compare and Contrast Essay? 

Usually, elementary school and college students are assigned topics for their essays. But if not, then it is time to show your creativity by choosing an interesting topic. 

Choosing the right topic for your essay is both important and daunting. Choosing an exciting topic is mandatory to make your compare and contrast essay engaging for the readers.

If you want to select an impressive topic for your essay, follow the tips provided below:

  • Identify Your Interests: Identify the topics you find interesting and are passionate about discussing. Your enthusiasm will enhance the quality of your writing.
  • Create a List of Ideas: List down all the ideas and choose subjects that can be described in detail with various aspects.
  • Ensure Coherence: Make sure that the subjects you choose for your essay belong to the same group or category. This ensures a logical and coherent flow of ideas.
  • Consider Your Audience: Keep in mind the target audience. Structure your writing based on the readers' interests to increase your essay’s readership. Choose a topic that aligns with your audience's preferences.
  • Explore Current Trends: Choose topics from current trends and controversies. People are more interested in subjects that are new or controversial. This ensures your essay remains engaging and relevant to your audience.

Researching before choosing your compare and contrast essay topic is essential. In this way, you will know if your chosen topic is suitable or not. 

To sum up , these are some helpful and fun writing ideas you can use in your compare and contrast essay.

However, sometimes students need more than a list of compare and contrast essay topics to guide them. You should also read some compare and contrast essay examples to get a better understanding.

Whether writing an essay or an academic paper on compare and contrast, it is essential first to pick a good topic. You can easily get help from our essay writing company online.

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  • A Research Guide
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120 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Compare and contrast health essay topics.

  • The impact of physical exercise vs sedentary lifestyle on overall health
  • Comparing the benefits and drawbacks of vegetarian and omnivorous diets
  • The effects of smoking vs vaping on respiratory health
  • Comparing the effectiveness of traditional medicine and alternative therapies in treating common ailments
  • The impact of stress vs relaxation techniques on mental health
  • Comparing the benefits and risks of prescription medications and natural remedies for common illnesses
  • The effects of regular sleep patterns vs irregular sleep patterns on cognitive function
  • Comparing the benefits and drawbacks of traditional gym workouts and outdoor activities for physical fitness
  • The impact of excessive sugar consumption vs artificial sweeteners on overall health
  • Comparing the benefits and risks of cosmetic surgery and natural aging processes on self-esteem and body image
  • The effects of regular meditation vs medication on managing anxiety and depression
  • Comparing the benefits and drawbacks of traditional medical treatments and holistic approaches for chronic diseases
  • The impact of regular dental care vs neglecting oral hygiene on overall health
  • Comparing the benefits and risks of consuming organic vs conventionally grown foods
  • The effects of regular social interactions vs isolation on mental and emotional well-being

Compare and Contrast Education Essay Topics

  • Traditional Education vs Online Education
  • Public Schools vs Private Schools
  • Homeschooling vs Traditional Schooling
  • Single-Sex Education vs Co-education
  • Standardized Testing vs Alternative Assessment Methods
  • Montessori Education vs Traditional Education
  • Vocational Education vs Academic Education
  • Inclusive Education vs Special Education
  • Charter Schools vs Magnet Schools
  • Online Learning vs Classroom Learning
  • International Baccalaureate (IB) vs Advanced Placement (AP) Programs
  • Project-Based Learning vs Lecture-Based Learning
  • Public Education vs Private Education
  • Early Childhood Education vs Primary Education
  • Education in Developed Countries vs Education in Developing Countries

Compare and Contrast Psychology Essay Topics

  • Nature vs Nurture
  • Classical vs Operant Conditioning
  • Freudian Psychoanalysis vs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Social Learning Theory vs Social Cognitive Theory
  • Developmental Psychology vs Social Psychology
  • Psychodynamic vs Humanistic Approaches
  • Implicit vs Explicit Memory
  • Individualism vs Collectivism
  • Nature of Intelligence
  • Psychopathy vs Antisocial Personality Disorder
  • Emotional Intelligence vs IQ
  • Behaviorism vs Cognitive Psychology
  • Attachment Theory vs Social Exchange Theory
  • Gender Differences in Psychology
  • Abnormal Psychology vs Positive Psychology

Compare and Contrast Environment Essay Topics

  • Urban vs Rural Living
  • Renewable Energy Sources vs Fossil Fuels
  • Natural vs Artificial Lighting
  • Forest Conservation vs Deforestation
  • Organic Farming vs Conventional Agriculture
  • Public Transportation vs Private Vehicles
  • Coastal Ecosystems vs Inland Ecosystems
  • Traditional vs Modern Waste Management Systems
  • National Parks vs Urban Parks
  • Water Conservation vs Water Consumption
  • Natural Disasters vs Human-Induced Disasters
  • Environmental Policies in Developed vs Developing Countries
  • Air Pollution in Industrialized Cities vs Rural Areas
  • Wildlife Conservation vs Urban Expansion
  • Environmental Education in Schools vs Community Initiatives

Compare and Contrast Technology Essay Topics

  • Smartphones vs Traditional Cell Phones
  • Online Shopping vs Traditional Shopping
  • E-books vs Printed Books
  • Virtual Reality vs Augmented Reality
  • Social Media vs Face-to-Face Communication
  • Laptops vs Tablets
  • Online Learning vs Traditional Classroom Education
  • Streaming Services vs Cable TV
  • Artificial Intelligence vs Human Intelligence
  • Electric Cars vs Gasoline Cars
  • Cloud Storage vs Physical Storage
  • Wearable Technology vs Traditional Accessories
  • Video Games vs Outdoor Activities
  • Online Banking vs Traditional Banking
  • Drones vs Manned Aircraft

Compare and Contrast Philosophy Essay Topics

  • Dualism vs Materialism
  • Rationalism vs Empiricism
  • Determinism vs Free Will
  • Objectivism vs Subjectivism
  • Idealism vs Realism
  • Hedonism vs Stoicism
  • Existentialism vs Nihilism
  • Utilitarianism vs Deontology
  • Egoism vs Altruism
  • Pragmatism vs Essentialism
  • Relativism vs Absolutism
  • Skepticism vs Dogmatism
  • Aesthetics vs Ethics
  • Epistemology vs Metaphysics
  • Feminism vs Masculism

Compare and Contrast History Essay Topics

  • Ancient Egypt vs Ancient Mesopotamia
  • The American Revolution vs the French Revolution
  • The Roman Empire vs the Han Dynasty
  • The Industrial Revolution in Britain vs the Meiji Restoration in Japan
  • The Civil Rights Movement in the United States vs Apartheid in South Africa
  • The Byzantine Empire vs the Islamic Caliphates
  • The Renaissance in Italy vs the Golden Age of Spain
  • The Russian Revolution vs the Chinese Revolution
  • The Age of Exploration in Europe vs the Silk Road in Asia
  • World War I vs World War II
  • The Cold War in the United States vs the Cold War in the Soviet Union
  • The French Revolution vs the Haitian Revolution
  • The Mongol Empire vs the Aztec Empire
  • The Protestant Reformation vs the Counter-Reformation
  • The American Civil War vs the Spanish Civil War

Compare and Contrast Sociology Essay Topics

  • Traditional gender roles vs contemporary gender roles in society
  • Individualism vs collectivism in Western and Eastern cultures
  • Social media’s impact on interpersonal relationships vs face-to-face communication
  • The effects of urbanization on rural communities vs urban communities
  • The role of religion in shaping social norms in Western and Middle Eastern societies
  • The impact of globalization on cultural diversity vs cultural homogenization
  • The influence of socioeconomic status on educational attainment in developed vs developing countries
  • The portrayal of race and ethnicity in the media in Western societies vs non-Western societies
  • The impact of immigration on social cohesion in multicultural societies vs homogeneous societies
  • The role of family structure in shaping child development in single-parent households vs two-parent households
  • The effects of social class on access to healthcare in developed vs developing countries
  • The influence of technology on social interactions in rural communities vs urban communities
  • The impact of social media on political activism in democratic vs authoritarian regimes
  • The role of religion in shaping attitudes towards gender and sexuality in conservative vs liberal societies
  • The effects of income inequality on social mobility in capitalist vs socialist economies

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Sometimes you just need a jumpstart to start writing your essay – a list of compare and contrast topics. You came to the right place! We’ve got a lot of awesome ideas to choose from! Feel free to pick one of them or compare them with your own experience and generate even better ideas. This way you can be sure your school or college teacher appreciates your creativity!

What Is a Compare and Contrast Essay?

Let’s start with defining a meaning of  compare and contrast essay . Such types of writing are typically built around some outstanding or controversial subject which can be viewed from many sides. A subject can also be analyzed in comparison with other options of that kind. In this type of paper, you should highlight the contrasting aspects of a topic or the differences between some options.  

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics: How to Choose?

Picking appropriate topics for compare and contrast essay can sometimes be challenging for students. A good way to do that is making a list of several things you know well so that you would be able to say a lot about differences between them. E.g., cats vs dogs or ‘boomers’ vs. the Generation Z. Then choose the one which matches your academic field best and go on!  

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

You are lucky as we’ve done this first step for you! Here you can find lots of topics to compare and contrast for an essay. These ideas are picked from good books or from best student works available on the Web. They are divided into different topic categories, so you can choose one and then check it for worthy ideas. Another great idea is paying someone to write your essay . Don't forget to give StudyCrumb a look! Keep in mind that we have different lists of topics for various essay types. Looking for classification and division essay topics  or problem solution topics ? You will find them here.

Best Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Regardless of which field you are best in, history or math, we’ve got a few universal ideas for you to write an excellent essay. Check out these best compare and contrast essay topics and pick one – or come up with your own great idea.

  • Being famous vs being wealthy.
  • Forced lockdown versus recommended quarantine.
  • Traditional classes versus online education.
  • Your current home vs a house of your dreams.
  • Working at home or in the office.
  • Similarities between human beings & chimps.
  • Plato & Socrates: their similarities & differences.
  • Sociology versus psychology.
  • Fiction or non-fiction books.
  • British vs American English.

Cannot find any good topic? Maybe  order essays instead, it's faster this way.

Funny Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Some good laugh would never harm the acceptance of your writing. Be it summer or winter, most people love having fun, so take a look at these funny compare and contrast essay topics.

  • Harry Potter vs Ronald Weasley: who is cooler?
  • Doing laundry or washing dishes: what would you drop?
  • Elders vs young people: differences in lifestyle.
  • Selfies versus traditional photos.
  • Email vs pigeon post.
  • Receiving or giving presents: which is more satisfying?
  • Life in a big city versus living on a farm.
  • Simpsons vs the South Park.
  • Texting or talking to friends?
  • Hulk vs Superman: who would win?

Coudn't find a topic for compare and contrast essay? Give our Topic Generator a try.

Good Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Do you need some universal ideas for a winning essay? Here you can find a number of good compare and contrast essay topics which can be utilized for nearly any academic field. They focus on general life problems and follow some general ideas of renowned writers or philosophers. Let's explore them in detail.

Unique Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Pick one of these unique compare and contrast essay topics to talk about some special contrasting occurrence in your life or some other subjects different from traditional problems of our society.

  • Best day vs worst day in my life.
  • Best job & worst job choices.
  • Living with parents vs living alone.
  • My experience with iPhones or Android phones.
  • My favorite romantic movie vs my favorite comedy.
  • Advantages & disadvantages of self-education.
  • My daytime vs nighttime activities.
  • Low carb diet versus vegetarian diet (or any other diet of your choice).
  • My best friend versus my worst enemy.
  • Online vs real-life interaction, according to my experience.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Students

If you are a student, your topic of choice may vary depending on what class you are in. At each age students have different life interests and study in different academic fields. We have collected a set of pre-selected compare and contrast essay topics for different age groups. You can choose to write about education and maybe you would prefer talking about your hobbies – such subjects can be found below.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics Middle School

Let’s take a look at these compare and contrast essay topics for middle school. Check them out carefully and pick one best related to your field of studies or the one your teacher would like. As a student, you don’t have to write about education only: the subject also can be your family, nature, your dreams, etc. Pay attention to compare and contrast essay outline as it is very crucial for writing such kind of task.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 6th Grade

Let’s start with compare and contrast essay topics for 6th grade. If you are in this grade, you could write about your life or lives of your ancestors, family members, friends or historical figures you’ve read about. You could also discuss some well-known problems of the world.

  • Pursuing your life goals or following others?
  • Selfish or selfless.
  • Advantages & disadvantages of migrating to a new country.
  • Feeling different vs feeling the same as others.
  • Your best & your worst moment(s) in life.
  • Protagonist & antagonist in your favorite book.
  • Homework or leisure time after school.
  • Wartime & peaceful times (you can pick a period from your country's history).
  • Your first & your last day in elementary school.
  • Talking to a friend vs talking to a stranger.

7th Grade Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Here are several 7th grade compare and contrast essay topics. At this age students are usually expected to write about people, history, video games or other leisure activities. Pick one and write your essay without spending too much time.

  • Starting & ending your typical school day.
  • Your favorite movie vs the book it was based upon.
  • Your mom & your dad (you may describe their daily routines).
  • Your favorite cookie vs your favorite soup.
  • Daily outfit versus holiday outfit.
  • Walking along a familiar path vs discovering new places.
  • Compare your house today & your house 100 years ago.
  • Sunny weather vs rain (or snow).
  • Riding a school bus vs going to school by car.
  • Walking in a forest vs walking by the seaside.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 8th Grade

Check out our pre-selected compare and contrast essay topics for 8th grade. Such subjects can be picked when doing research in modern media or analyzing popular books. Feel free to choose among them.

  • Being a part of a community vs being an outcast.
  • Natural science vs liberal arts: what is more useful for your career?
  • Accomplishments vs failures.
  • Celebrating historical events: pros & cons.
  • Adventure or attention: what would you prefer?
  • AI technology: pros & risks.
  • Half-empty or half-full glass?
  • Being fast learner vs being naturally gifted at something.
  • Pros & cons of getting older.
  • Career in a private corporation or in the government sector?

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for High-School Students

Here you can find several suggestions for compare and contrast essay topics for high school. You can pick one that is most closely related to your area of interest. Use that idea to write an excellent work your teacher would love.

  • Having a bike vs having a car.
  • Studying at home or studying abroad.
  • Childhood friendship or high school friendship.
  • Diet or workout: which approach is better?
  • Facebook or Twitter.
  • Office work vs freelance.
  • Living in poverty or being rich.
  • Childhood & adulthood.
  • Tea or coffee.
  • Science or superstitions.
  • Family traditions or national traditions.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for College

Finally let’s check out what senior level students would write about. We have several categories of pre-selected compare and contrast essay topics. College level essays are typically discussing more complicated matters as students are entering adult life. This can be about making money, pushing your career in a selected academic field, household problems, making food and so on.

Psychology Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

We will start with Psychology compare and contrast essay topics. You could use them for writing texts where you voice and prove your opinion about important psychological problems. Besides, you can just describe some phenomena that are similar to each other.

  • Anthropologist vs psychologist (or sociologist).
  • Anxiety vs depression.
  • Ego vs superego.
  • Anorexia vs bulimia.
  • Agoraphobia vs claustrophobia.
  • Panic attack vs phobia.
  • Suicide vs homicide.
  • Affection vs infatuation.
  • Autism vs Down syndrome.
  • B. F. Skinner theory Vs. John B. Watson theory.
  • Physical vs mental needs of a human.

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Sports Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

This section contains some compare and contrast essay topics about sports. Sport plays an important role in students’ life, not only improving their fitness and preparing them for health tests but also helping to build social connections. Let’s see if you find here a proper topic for yourself:

  • Chess vs Checkers.
  • Aikido or judo.
  • Snowboarding vs surfing (you might also choose skiing or other related sports).
  • Ice climbing vs traditional climbing.
  • Baseball or cricket.
  • Rugby vs soccer.
  • Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi.
  • Roger Federer Vs. Rafael Nadal.
  • Women’s football or men’s football.
  • Tennis or badminton.

Biology: Topics for Compare and Contrast Essay

This section contains a few biology topics for compare and contrast essay you could use. They include health related subjects which are relevant for all people. Besides you could write about life of organisms in general:

  • Drugs vs herbs (or other natural alternatives).
  • Warm blooded vs cold blooded animals.
  • Surgery or therapy.
  • Vaccination vs medications.
  • Plastic surgery or cosmetic surgery.
  • Cell replication vs cell division.
  • Autoimmune disease vs autoinflammatory disease.
  • Bacteria or viruses.
  • Antibiotics vs antiviral drugs.
  • Clinic vs hospital.
  • Morning exercise vs evening exercise.

Topics to Write Compare and Contrast Essay About Computer Science

Let’s conclude our series of suggestions with a list of compare and contrast essay topics on computer science. Such essays could describe your work, how to do program or just talk about the place of technologies in your life.

  • Programming vs testing.
  • HTML or CSS.
  • Windows or Mac.
  • Computer-generated imagery vs computer animation.
  • GIF versus video format.
  • Chrome or Opera (or other browsers).
  • Fiber optic cable or coaxial cable.
  • Desktop vs laptop.
  • SSD hard drive vs SSD.
  • Windows 8 vs Windows 10 (you can also pick older operations systems).

Easy Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Why not start from something simple and understandable for anyone in the world? Here you can find easy compare and contrast essay topics. They could help you with writing a simple essay very quickly. How about starting with such easy things like pets, games or movies? Let's dive into this list of ideas and see if you could pick anything nice here.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Kids

Subjects that juniors would like to write about are not similar to those for college students. Here are some compare and contrast essay topics for kids - the things in the world that kids like. Time to explore them!

  • Reading books vs watching movies.
  • Superhero movies or comedies.
  • Do you prefer Marvel or DC comics?
  • Chocolate or ice-cream.
  • Do you prefer cold or hot weather?
  • What do you prefer for breakfast: cereal or bacon & eggs?
  • Coke vs Pepsi (or choose your own favorite drinks).
  • Fruits or vegetables: what is your choice?
  • Pencil drawing vs painting.
  • Compare two of your favorite movies.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Elementary Students

School children are expected to choose more complicated subjects. Let's take a look at compare and contrast essay topics for elementary students. They typically include some reflections on studying or detailed descriptions of the behavior of a dog (or some other animal).

  • Best pets: cats or dogs.
  • Animal behavior: wild or domesticated.
  • Winter holidays vs summer holidays.
  • Studying remotely or going to your class.
  • Family or friends.
  • Sweet vs salty food.
  • Compare your two favorite kinds of sports.
  • Happy end vs sad end in books (or movies).
  • Short hair vs long hair.
  • Going to seaside or camping in forest.

Compare and Contrast Essay About Animals: Topics

One of the best choices for a winning essay is picking up a good animal related subject. Here are a few ideas on compare and contrast essay (of animals) topics that you could use. There are lots of curious creatures aside from dogs and cats, and writing about one of them could help to captivate your audience.

  • Northern versus southern animals.
  • Tiger vs bear: who would win.
  • Plants versus mushrooms.
  • Visual differences between edible and inedible mushrooms.
  • Insects vs spiders: who is the worst roommate.
  • River versus marine animals.
  • Apes versus monkeys.
  • Bees versus wasps.
  • Migratory versus resident birds.
  • Parrot or canary, which one is a better pet?

Interesting Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

A key success factor for a writer is captivating their audience. The first step towards that is picking a subject that would fuel their curiosity. We have found some really interesting compare and contrast essay topics which step away from traditional school subjects. These ideas are a result of various successful books as well as online research. Feel free to pick one that you find contrasting enough.

Controversial Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

It is natural for people to argue about things. And sometimes a great idea can be born from an argument. Below are several controversial compare and contrast essay topics. Feel free to pick one if you would like to invite your audience to an argument:

  • Pros & cons of being alone.
  • Being an only child versus having many siblings.
  • Creationism against atheism.
  • Meat diet or veganism.
  • Participating in political activities vs staying neutral.
  • Positive & negative aspects of nuclear weapon.
  • Free speech vs censure in the Internet.
  • Pros & cons of death penalty.
  • Private vs state-owned schools.
  • Progressive tax system vs flat tax system.

Art History: Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

If you are fond of history and prefer to write about beautiful examples made by humans, consider picking from these art history compare and contrast essay topics. After all, art is immortal so you don’t need to collect only the most up-to-date data for such a subject.

  • Shakespeare: a real person or a myth?
  • Roman or Greek mythology.
  • Eastern or western architecture in Mediterranean (you can also pick any other region with different cultural influences).
  • Impressionism vs Expressionism.
  • Opera or ballet.
  • Mosaic or Fresco.
  • Medieval or Renaissance art.
  • Baroque or Neoclassicism.
  • 19th vs 20th century music.
  • Classical music vs jazz.
  • Rock vs pop music.

Final Thoughts on Compare and Contrast Essay Ideas

Sure thing, these are far from all compare and contrast essay topics available out there. But hopefully, you have found at least one good idea to get started. Use any of these topics to generate a more specific idea for your assignment. 

Remember, these topics are just a small taste of what we have to offer. Whether you need evaluative essay topics or cause and effect topics , we've got you covered.

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FAQ About Compare and Contrast Essay Ideas

1. what are some compare and contrast essay topics for the 4th grade.

You can use the following compare and contrast essay topics for the 4th grade:

  • Some children like to play outdoors while others prefer indoors.
  • Literature is your favorite subject while you dislike Mathematics.
  • You love visiting your relatives during vacations but you don’t like guests in your own house.

2. What are the compare and contrast essay topics for teenagers?

Here are some helpful examples of compare and contrast essay topics for teenagers:

  • Online tuitions or home tuitions.
  • Getting a college degree or getting a job.
  • Spending money on education vs spending money on fun.

You can also come up with similar topics related to the problems of that age.

3. What are some compare and contrast essay topics on history?

Here are several examples of compare and contrast essay topics of history:

  • Democracy vs. monarchy.
  • World War I & World War II.
  • Renaissance vs. Baroque epoch.

Pick a proper topic for your essay and try to explain your point to your audience as plain as possible.

4. What are some compare and contrast essay topics on culture?

A few compare and contrast essay topics on culture:

  • The difference between a marriage & a civil union.
  • The difference between living on campus & living off campus.
  • Two most profitable goods & services markets.

You need to include details into your text and explain the differences using examples.

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Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

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How to Write a Compare and Contrast Essay

Compare and Contrast College Essay Topics

We've all been there. You've been assigned an essay of your choosing. Where do you even begin?

How about with a compare and contrast essay ?

Compare and contrast is a great tactic to use when you're stuck searching for an essay topic. These essays follow a relatively easy pattern, and, fortunately, there is no shortage of ideas for subjects to compare and contrast.

Compare and contrast essays are a great way to share your ideas and demonstrate your writing skills. Best of all, there are so many topics available that make a great fit for this essay type.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Once you've decided to write a compare and contrast essay, you'll need some ideas. Like we mentioned above, there are so many topics available that you can easily analyze in this type of essay format.

Of course, the flip side of this is that there are so many options...how do you know what to pick?

Our advice: Start by choosing an overarching topic that fits within your personal interests (think art, history, music, science, etc.).

Once you've identified the topic you want to cover, you can begin making a list of subjects under that topic you can potentially write about.

Here's a list of topics and subjects under each topic to help get your brainstorming kickstarted.

Interested in History?

  • Periods of history (Dark Ages vs. Middle Ages, before vs. after the Civil War)
  • World governments (Swiss vs. U.S. governments, Iraqi vs. Chinese governments)
  • Types of government (democracy vs. socialism, dictatorship vs. oligarchy)
  • Wars (World War I vs. World War II, Vietnam vs. Korean War)
  • Presidents (Trump vs. Nixon, Kennedy vs. Clinton)
  • Types of leaders (Presidents vs. dictators, senators vs. members of congress)
  • Specific leaders (Hitler vs. Stalin, Napoleon vs. Charlemagne)
  • Tragedies (9/11 vs. D-Day, Hiroshima vs. Chernobyl)

Interested in Reading and Language Arts?

  • Characters in a play (Willy Loman vs. Evan Hansen, Lady Macbeth vs. Lady MacDuff)
  • Characters in a novel (Jay Gatsby vs. Tom Buchanan, Boo Ridley vs. Scout)
  • Books (1984 vs. The Handmaid's Tale, Lord of the Rings vs. Harry Potter)
  • Plays (Macbeth vs. Hamlet, Death of a Salesman vs. Fences)
  • Authors (J.K. Rowling vs. J. R. Tolkien, Jeannette Walls vs. Tara Westover)
  • Poets (Keats vs. Wordsworth, Dickinson vs. Akhmatova)
  • Speeches (Gettysburg Address vs. I Have a Dream, Duties of American Citizenship vs. JFK's Inauguration Address)
  • Languages (British vs. American English, France French vs. Canadian French)

Interested in Fine Arts?

  • Periods of art (Renaissance vs. Impressionist, Baroque vs. Romanticism)
  • Musical genres (Hip-hop vs. Jazz, Country vs. Bluegrass)
  • Artists (Picasso vs. Dali, Cassatt vs. O'Keefe)
  • Singers (Sinatra vs. Lady Gaga, The Beatles vs. The Backstreet Boys)
  • Methods of art (murals vs. statues, watercolor vs. pastels)

Interested in Religion?

  • Religions (Islam vs. Christianity, Hindu vs. Judaism)
  • Religious leaders (Pope Francis vs. Dalai Lama, Archibishop Tutu vs. Billy Graham)
  • Philosophers (Socrates vs. Plato, Locke vs. Rousseau)
  • Religious ideas (reincarnation vs. resurrection, heaven vs. purgatory)
  • Texts (Bible vs. Quran, Talmud vs. Tipitaka)

Interested in Science?

  • Energy (solar vs. wind, nuclear vs. chemical)
  • Animals (reptiles vs. amphibians, polar bears vs. black bears)
  • Planets (Earth vs. Mars, Jupiter vs. Saturn)
  • Innovators (Elon Musk vs. Steve Jobs, Bill Gates vs. Stephen Hawking)
  • Disasters (tsunamis vs. hurricanes, earthquakes vs. tornados)

Interested in Popular Culture?

  • Television Shows (Friends vs. New Girl, Simpsons vs. Family Guy)
  • Games (board games vs. online, violent vs. non-violent)
  • Fashion (1970s vs. 1990s, 1960s vs. 1980s)
  • Movies (Rocky vs. Creed, The Green Mile vs. Shawshank Redemption)
  • Comedians (Dave Chapelle vs. Eddie Murphy, Ellen DeGeneres vs. Sarah Silverman)
  • Actors (Tom Hanks vs. Leonardo DiCaprio, Meryl Streep vs. Octavia Spencer)

Interested in Debates?

  • Online education vs. on-campus education
  • Homeschooling vs. traditional education
  • Online vs. face-to-face communication
  • Male vs. female genders
  • Nature vs. nurture
  • Creation vs. evolution

Each of these lists could go on and on. You can also narrow many of these ideas down even further to be more specific.

Take homeschooling vs. traditional education, for example. You could narrow the focus of your essay to cover the career paths of students who come from a homeschooling background vs. those who come from traditional education.

Still need help brainstorming? Get even more ideas by looking at examples of compare and contrast essays . As a bonus, this step will also give you a better idea of how this type of essay should be written.

There are numerous essay examples to show how others have crafted compare and contrast essays. A step-by-step breakdown of an essay is provided on some sites. (Check out EAP Foundation's site to get you started.) Other sites offer a variety of compare and contrast essay examples, such as this academic help site .

Just remember to keep your topic broad enough that you can write an entire essay on the topic that includes a full argument.

Once you

How to Write a Compare and Contrast Essay

After choosing the ideal topic for you, there are a few simple steps to help you get started in writing your essay.

1. Draw a Venn diagram

The whole point of a compare and contrast essay is to cover the similarities and differences of two ideas. A Venn diagram is an easy way to help you begin identifying what those are.

What overlaps in your two ideas? What's completely different? What are some linking ideas that you can use to tie these two ideas together?

Plot these thoughts out to see where your essay is heading.

2. Make a simple outline

Next, take your list of similarities and differences you've identified and place them in an outline. A basic outline is: introduction, compare, contrast, conclusion. Where do your Venn diagram thoughts belong?

Most students skip over this step, but an outline is actually a crucial part of the writing process. Not only does it help you to organize your thoughts, but it actually will save you time in the writing and editing process later on.

So do yourself a favor: create an outline.

3. Use compare and contrast words

Have a list ready of compare and contrast words to use when you start your writing.

Common compare words include: like, as well as, similar to, similarly, and in common. Contrast words include: although, yet, contrary to, in contrast, and however. It's important to vary your words, so pepper a variety of these words throughout the essay.

Compare and contrast essays are a great option when you have to come up with your own writing topic. With limitless topic choices and a relatively simple format, these essays can be a great way to show off your writing skills and to celebrate your interests in a variety of diverse topics.

How to Write Essay Titles and Headers

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The Writing Center • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Comparing and Contrasting

What this handout is about.

This handout will help you first to determine whether a particular assignment is asking for comparison/contrast and then to generate a list of similarities and differences, decide which similarities and differences to focus on, and organize your paper so that it will be clear and effective. It will also explain how you can (and why you should) develop a thesis that goes beyond “Thing A and Thing B are similar in many ways but different in others.”

Introduction

In your career as a student, you’ll encounter many different kinds of writing assignments, each with its own requirements. One of the most common is the comparison/contrast essay, in which you focus on the ways in which certain things or ideas—usually two of them—are similar to (this is the comparison) and/or different from (this is the contrast) one another. By assigning such essays, your instructors are encouraging you to make connections between texts or ideas, engage in critical thinking, and go beyond mere description or summary to generate interesting analysis: when you reflect on similarities and differences, you gain a deeper understanding of the items you are comparing, their relationship to each other, and what is most important about them.

Recognizing comparison/contrast in assignments

Some assignments use words—like compare, contrast, similarities, and differences—that make it easy for you to see that they are asking you to compare and/or contrast. Here are a few hypothetical examples:

  • Compare and contrast Frye’s and Bartky’s accounts of oppression.
  • Compare WWI to WWII, identifying similarities in the causes, development, and outcomes of the wars.
  • Contrast Wordsworth and Coleridge; what are the major differences in their poetry?

Notice that some topics ask only for comparison, others only for contrast, and others for both.

But it’s not always so easy to tell whether an assignment is asking you to include comparison/contrast. And in some cases, comparison/contrast is only part of the essay—you begin by comparing and/or contrasting two or more things and then use what you’ve learned to construct an argument or evaluation. Consider these examples, noticing the language that is used to ask for the comparison/contrast and whether the comparison/contrast is only one part of a larger assignment:

  • Choose a particular idea or theme, such as romantic love, death, or nature, and consider how it is treated in two Romantic poems.
  • How do the different authors we have studied so far define and describe oppression?
  • Compare Frye’s and Bartky’s accounts of oppression. What does each imply about women’s collusion in their own oppression? Which is more accurate?
  • In the texts we’ve studied, soldiers who served in different wars offer differing accounts of their experiences and feelings both during and after the fighting. What commonalities are there in these accounts? What factors do you think are responsible for their differences?

You may want to check out our handout on understanding assignments for additional tips.

Using comparison/contrast for all kinds of writing projects

Sometimes you may want to use comparison/contrast techniques in your own pre-writing work to get ideas that you can later use for an argument, even if comparison/contrast isn’t an official requirement for the paper you’re writing. For example, if you wanted to argue that Frye’s account of oppression is better than both de Beauvoir’s and Bartky’s, comparing and contrasting the main arguments of those three authors might help you construct your evaluation—even though the topic may not have asked for comparison/contrast and the lists of similarities and differences you generate may not appear anywhere in the final draft of your paper.

Discovering similarities and differences

Making a Venn diagram or a chart can help you quickly and efficiently compare and contrast two or more things or ideas. To make a Venn diagram, simply draw some overlapping circles, one circle for each item you’re considering. In the central area where they overlap, list the traits the two items have in common. Assign each one of the areas that doesn’t overlap; in those areas, you can list the traits that make the things different. Here’s a very simple example, using two pizza places:

Venn diagram indicating that both Pepper's and Amante serve pizza with unusual ingredients at moderate prices, despite differences in location, wait times, and delivery options

To make a chart, figure out what criteria you want to focus on in comparing the items. Along the left side of the page, list each of the criteria. Across the top, list the names of the items. You should then have a box per item for each criterion; you can fill the boxes in and then survey what you’ve discovered.

Here’s an example, this time using three pizza places:

As you generate points of comparison, consider the purpose and content of the assignment and the focus of the class. What do you think the professor wants you to learn by doing this comparison/contrast? How does it fit with what you have been studying so far and with the other assignments in the course? Are there any clues about what to focus on in the assignment itself?

Here are some general questions about different types of things you might have to compare. These are by no means complete or definitive lists; they’re just here to give you some ideas—you can generate your own questions for these and other types of comparison. You may want to begin by using the questions reporters traditionally ask: Who? What? Where? When? Why? How? If you’re talking about objects, you might also consider general properties like size, shape, color, sound, weight, taste, texture, smell, number, duration, and location.

Two historical periods or events

  • When did they occur—do you know the date(s) and duration? What happened or changed during each? Why are they significant?
  • What kinds of work did people do? What kinds of relationships did they have? What did they value?
  • What kinds of governments were there? Who were important people involved?
  • What caused events in these periods, and what consequences did they have later on?

Two ideas or theories

  • What are they about?
  • Did they originate at some particular time?
  • Who created them? Who uses or defends them?
  • What is the central focus, claim, or goal of each? What conclusions do they offer?
  • How are they applied to situations/people/things/etc.?
  • Which seems more plausible to you, and why? How broad is their scope?
  • What kind of evidence is usually offered for them?

Two pieces of writing or art

  • What are their titles? What do they describe or depict?
  • What is their tone or mood? What is their form?
  • Who created them? When were they created? Why do you think they were created as they were? What themes do they address?
  • Do you think one is of higher quality or greater merit than the other(s)—and if so, why?
  • For writing: what plot, characterization, setting, theme, tone, and type of narration are used?
  • Where are they from? How old are they? What is the gender, race, class, etc. of each?
  • What, if anything, are they known for? Do they have any relationship to each other?
  • What are they like? What did/do they do? What do they believe? Why are they interesting?
  • What stands out most about each of them?

Deciding what to focus on

By now you have probably generated a huge list of similarities and differences—congratulations! Next you must decide which of them are interesting, important, and relevant enough to be included in your paper. Ask yourself these questions:

  • What’s relevant to the assignment?
  • What’s relevant to the course?
  • What’s interesting and informative?
  • What matters to the argument you are going to make?
  • What’s basic or central (and needs to be mentioned even if obvious)?
  • Overall, what’s more important—the similarities or the differences?

Suppose that you are writing a paper comparing two novels. For most literature classes, the fact that they both use Caslon type (a kind of typeface, like the fonts you may use in your writing) is not going to be relevant, nor is the fact that one of them has a few illustrations and the other has none; literature classes are more likely to focus on subjects like characterization, plot, setting, the writer’s style and intentions, language, central themes, and so forth. However, if you were writing a paper for a class on typesetting or on how illustrations are used to enhance novels, the typeface and presence or absence of illustrations might be absolutely critical to include in your final paper.

Sometimes a particular point of comparison or contrast might be relevant but not terribly revealing or interesting. For example, if you are writing a paper about Wordsworth’s “Tintern Abbey” and Coleridge’s “Frost at Midnight,” pointing out that they both have nature as a central theme is relevant (comparisons of poetry often talk about themes) but not terribly interesting; your class has probably already had many discussions about the Romantic poets’ fondness for nature. Talking about the different ways nature is depicted or the different aspects of nature that are emphasized might be more interesting and show a more sophisticated understanding of the poems.

Your thesis

The thesis of your comparison/contrast paper is very important: it can help you create a focused argument and give your reader a road map so they don’t get lost in the sea of points you are about to make. As in any paper, you will want to replace vague reports of your general topic (for example, “This paper will compare and contrast two pizza places,” or “Pepper’s and Amante are similar in some ways and different in others,” or “Pepper’s and Amante are similar in many ways, but they have one major difference”) with something more detailed and specific. For example, you might say, “Pepper’s and Amante have similar prices and ingredients, but their atmospheres and willingness to deliver set them apart.”

Be careful, though—although this thesis is fairly specific and does propose a simple argument (that atmosphere and delivery make the two pizza places different), your instructor will often be looking for a bit more analysis. In this case, the obvious question is “So what? Why should anyone care that Pepper’s and Amante are different in this way?” One might also wonder why the writer chose those two particular pizza places to compare—why not Papa John’s, Dominos, or Pizza Hut? Again, thinking about the context the class provides may help you answer such questions and make a stronger argument. Here’s a revision of the thesis mentioned earlier:

Pepper’s and Amante both offer a greater variety of ingredients than other Chapel Hill/Carrboro pizza places (and than any of the national chains), but the funky, lively atmosphere at Pepper’s makes it a better place to give visiting friends and family a taste of local culture.

You may find our handout on constructing thesis statements useful at this stage.

Organizing your paper

There are many different ways to organize a comparison/contrast essay. Here are two:

Subject-by-subject

Begin by saying everything you have to say about the first subject you are discussing, then move on and make all the points you want to make about the second subject (and after that, the third, and so on, if you’re comparing/contrasting more than two things). If the paper is short, you might be able to fit all of your points about each item into a single paragraph, but it’s more likely that you’d have several paragraphs per item. Using our pizza place comparison/contrast as an example, after the introduction, you might have a paragraph about the ingredients available at Pepper’s, a paragraph about its location, and a paragraph about its ambience. Then you’d have three similar paragraphs about Amante, followed by your conclusion.

The danger of this subject-by-subject organization is that your paper will simply be a list of points: a certain number of points (in my example, three) about one subject, then a certain number of points about another. This is usually not what college instructors are looking for in a paper—generally they want you to compare or contrast two or more things very directly, rather than just listing the traits the things have and leaving it up to the reader to reflect on how those traits are similar or different and why those similarities or differences matter. Thus, if you use the subject-by-subject form, you will probably want to have a very strong, analytical thesis and at least one body paragraph that ties all of your different points together.

A subject-by-subject structure can be a logical choice if you are writing what is sometimes called a “lens” comparison, in which you use one subject or item (which isn’t really your main topic) to better understand another item (which is). For example, you might be asked to compare a poem you’ve already covered thoroughly in class with one you are reading on your own. It might make sense to give a brief summary of your main ideas about the first poem (this would be your first subject, the “lens”), and then spend most of your paper discussing how those points are similar to or different from your ideas about the second.

Point-by-point

Rather than addressing things one subject at a time, you may wish to talk about one point of comparison at a time. There are two main ways this might play out, depending on how much you have to say about each of the things you are comparing. If you have just a little, you might, in a single paragraph, discuss how a certain point of comparison/contrast relates to all the items you are discussing. For example, I might describe, in one paragraph, what the prices are like at both Pepper’s and Amante; in the next paragraph, I might compare the ingredients available; in a third, I might contrast the atmospheres of the two restaurants.

If I had a bit more to say about the items I was comparing/contrasting, I might devote a whole paragraph to how each point relates to each item. For example, I might have a whole paragraph about the clientele at Pepper’s, followed by a whole paragraph about the clientele at Amante; then I would move on and do two more paragraphs discussing my next point of comparison/contrast—like the ingredients available at each restaurant.

There are no hard and fast rules about organizing a comparison/contrast paper, of course. Just be sure that your reader can easily tell what’s going on! Be aware, too, of the placement of your different points. If you are writing a comparison/contrast in service of an argument, keep in mind that the last point you make is the one you are leaving your reader with. For example, if I am trying to argue that Amante is better than Pepper’s, I should end with a contrast that leaves Amante sounding good, rather than with a point of comparison that I have to admit makes Pepper’s look better. If you’ve decided that the differences between the items you’re comparing/contrasting are most important, you’ll want to end with the differences—and vice versa, if the similarities seem most important to you.

Our handout on organization can help you write good topic sentences and transitions and make sure that you have a good overall structure in place for your paper.

Cue words and other tips

To help your reader keep track of where you are in the comparison/contrast, you’ll want to be sure that your transitions and topic sentences are especially strong. Your thesis should already have given the reader an idea of the points you’ll be making and the organization you’ll be using, but you can help them out with some extra cues. The following words may be helpful to you in signaling your intentions:

  • like, similar to, also, unlike, similarly, in the same way, likewise, again, compared to, in contrast, in like manner, contrasted with, on the contrary, however, although, yet, even though, still, but, nevertheless, conversely, at the same time, regardless, despite, while, on the one hand … on the other hand.

For example, you might have a topic sentence like one of these:

  • Compared to Pepper’s, Amante is quiet.
  • Like Amante, Pepper’s offers fresh garlic as a topping.
  • Despite their different locations (downtown Chapel Hill and downtown Carrboro), Pepper’s and Amante are both fairly easy to get to.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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If you are an advanced study pursuer or studying in college, you must be aware that essays have a strong impact on your academics. You are expected to write some great essays to achieve a higher grade, and that’s why we have come up with this.

This blog presents an extensive list of the top 100 best compare and contrast essay topics for 2024. With the help of these essay ideas, students can improve their critical thinking, analytical prowess, and communication skills significantly. Also, students gain a deeper understanding of the topics by identifying similarities and differences between subjects or objects. This allows them to make informed decisions. 

Ace Your Compare and Contrast Essays with Our Expert Help!

The Importance of Choosing the Right Topic  

Choosing the right topic is essential for a compare and contrast essay ideas. Moreover, it sets the foundation for the entire essay, shaping its direction and influencing the depth of analysis. An engaging and thought-provoking topic allows students to explore interesting aspects of the subjects or objects under comparison, capturing the attention of readers and inspiring further exploration. 

What are Compare and Contrast Essays?  

Compare and contrast essays analyze two or more subjects, discussing their similarities and differences. The purpose of these essays is to uncover differences and similarities in a well-structured manner. They explore various sub-topics, examining both commonalities, like immediate relations as well as differences.  

Now, let’s embark on an exciting journey as we explore the top 100 best compare and contrast essay topics for 2024. This curated list also covers a wide range of disciplines and interests, making it the perfect guide for students of literature, history, science, or any other field. In Addition, it provides simple and original topics to spark ideas for your compare and contrast essays, fostering academic excellence. 

How to Write a Compare and Contrast Essay?  

Writing a compare and contrast essay involves a careful selection of subjects that are relevant to each other. Additionally, the essay focuses on comparing the similarities and differences between the two topics. In a compare and contrast essay, the similarities form the basis of comparison, while the contrasting aspects emphasize the differences between the subjects.

Moreover, such essays offer valuable analysis by identifying and highlighting what is common and distinct among the topics. Here are tips on how to write a compare and contrast essay effectively: 

Choose Appropriate Subjects:  

  • Select two subjects that have some relevance or connection to each other. 
  • Ensure that the subjects have enough similarities and differences to explore. 

Identify Similarities:  

  • To beging, start by examining the commonalities between the subjects. 
  • Also, look for shared characteristics, features, or themes. 
  • Determine the scope, nature, degree, and magnitude of the similarities. 

Establish a Basis of Comparison:  

  • Use the identified similarities as a foundation for the essay. 
  • Organize your essay around specific points of comparison. 
  • Each paragraph should focus on one point and provide evidence or examples. 

Highlight Differences:  

  • Focus on the ways in which the subjects differ from each other. 
  • Give more importance to the points where they are not similar. 
  • Explore the unique qualities, aspects, or perspectives of each subject. 
  • Support your claims about the differences between the subjects with solid evidence or examples. 

Structure Your Essay:  

When writing a compare and contrast essay, choosing a structure that best suits your purpose is essential. Two common approaches are the point-by-point method and the block method. 

  • Point-By-Point Method: This method involves examining specific points or criteria of comparison between the subjects in each paragraph. It also allows for a more detailed analysis of the similarities and differences.   
  • Block Method: This method involves addressing each subject in separate paragraphs, discussing all aspects or characteristics of one subject first, and then moving on to the second subject. 

Provide Supporting Evidence:  

  • Discuss your comparisons and contrasts with relevant evidence, examples, or data. 
  • Use reliable sources such as books, journals, or reputable online platforms. 

Use Transition Phrases:  

  • Employ transition words and phrases (e.g., similarly, on the other hand, in contrast) to guide the reader through your comparisons and contrasts. 
  • Ensure a smooth flow between ideas and paragraphs. 

Conclude with a Summary:  

  • Summarize the main points of comparison and contrast essay topic you are writing. 
  • Emphasize why analysis of the topic is important and its implications. 
  • Leave the reader with a thoughtful closing statement. 

Following these steps, you can effectively write a compare and contrast essay that offers valuable insights into the similarities and differences between two topics. 

How to Choose the Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024?  

Choosing the best compare and contrast topics for college can be tricky, as comparing two subjects that have nothing in common. However, choosing identical subjects often does not work well as it would be difficult to distinguish between the two. 

For example, if you select two subjects like “The Importance of Exercise” and “The Rapid Growth of E-commerce Websites.” Then it would be nearly impossible to write a compare and contrast essay on these topics. The reason is simple. These two subjects cannot be effectively compared or contrasted. 

Therefore, when choosing a compare and contrast essay topic for college in 2024, selecting subjects with similarities and differences is essential, allowing for meaningful comparisons and contrasts. It will also ensure that your essay will have a strong foundation and provide valuable insights to the reader. 

To summarize, consider topics to compare and contrast ideas with significant overlaps or contrasts, enabling you to explore exciting connections and provide valuable analysis in your essay. 

Six Potential Sources For Choosing a Compare and Contrast Essay Topic

7 Best Tips To Choose Compare and Contrast Essay Topics For Your Academic Success  

Writing a compare and contrast essay can be challenging, but selecting the right topic can become an engaging and rewarding experience. We will provide here seven valuable tips to help you choose good compare and contrast essay topics that help you to get the high score.  

1. Understand The Essay Assignment Guidelines  

Before selecting a topic, reading and understanding the essay assignment guidelines is crucial. Moreover, pay close attention to specific requirements or instructions your instructor provides. By understanding the assignment guidelines, you will be able to focus on the specific requirements and choose a suitable topic that meets the academic objectives. Additionally, considering your essay’s purpose, length, formatting guidelines, and other relevant criteria is essential before submitting it to your college. 

2. Identify Your Personal Interest  

Selecting a topic that genuinely interests you is crucial for compelling compare and contrast essays. Furthermore, consider your preferences, hobbies, or areas of expertise. By doing so, you can choose a topic that not only engages you but also allows you to bring your passion and knowledge to the essay. When you choose topics of compare and contrast essays that resonate with you, you are more likely to remain motivated and engaged throughout the writing process. Your enthusiasm for the topic will also reflect in your work, making it more enjoyable for you and your readers. 

3. Research Extensively  

Conduct thorough research on the subjects or themes is essential to find the best compare and contrast essay topic. Moreover, gather information from reliable sources such as books, scholarly articles, reputable websites, and academic databases. Additionally, the more you explore, the better understanding you will gain about the topic you have chosen to write. Furthermore, take notes, highlight key points, and gather evidence to support your comparisons. Additionally, extensive research will provide a solid foundation for selecting a compelling and well-supported topic. 

4. Narrow Down Your Options  

 Once you have conducted in-depth research, it’s time to narrow down your options. Additionally, analyze the information you have gathered and identify topics with ample comparative elements. Moreover, look for subjects that have contrasting characteristics, similarities, or intriguing connections. Furthermore, consider the complexity of the topics and select the ones that offer rich material for analysis and exploration. Doing so lets you focus on developing a comprehensive and well-structured essay by narrowing down your options. 

5. Brainstorm Comparative Elements  

Before making your topic final, it is essential to brainstorm the comparative elements you will explore in your essay. Additionally, identify the aspects, features, or qualities you will compare and contrast between the chosen subjects. Now, create a list of these elements, which will serve as the backbone of your essay. Moreover, it is essential to define the comparative elements clearly. Furthermore, ensure that your essay has a clear and logical structure, making it easier for readers to follow your arguments. 

6. Consider Relevance and Significance  

While choosing a compare and contrast essay topic, consider its relevance and significance. Similarly, choose topics with real-world implications, societal relevance, or academic importance. Also, aim for topics that contribute to existing knowledge or provide new ideas. It will not only engage your readers but also demonstrate your understanding of the subject matter and its broader implications. 

7. Consult With Peers and Tutors  

Seeking feedback and guidance from your peers and tutors can help you to choose the best compare and contrast essay topics. So, discuss your ideas with classmates, friends, or study groups to gain different perspectives and insights. Their input can also help you evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of your compare and contrast essay examples. Additionally, consult with your instructors or expert tutors , who can provide advice and suggest alternative topics that align with your academic goals. 

Write a Winning Compare and Contrast Essay  

Before writing a compare and contrast essay, it’s essential to consider your content and create a roadmap carefully. Also, make the outlines precisely that will explain all the points and also decide the sequence of these pointers.  

To ensure a well-organized essay, it is important to divide it into appropriate sections, including the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Firstly, in the introduction, provide an overview of your essay and clearly state the purpose for comparing and contrasting the subjects. Then, in dedicated sections of the body paragraphs, delve into the comparison and contrast topics. Additionally, for added structure and organization, divide these sections into subsections that group various categories of similarities and differences. Moreover, maintaining clarity and precision throughout your essay is essential to convey your ideas effectively. 

If you need guidance or support while writing your compare and contrast essay, there is a solution available for students. TutorBin, a reliable academic help platform, can offer the assistance you need to create a winning essay. With TutorBin expertise, you can gain valuable insights, refine your arguments, and improve the overall quality of your work. By utilizing TutorBin services, you can confidently tackle your essay assignment and achieve academic success. 

To strengthen your essay, utilize facts and figures to support your points and lend credibility to your arguments. Also, include the compare and contrast essay examples or stories that illustrate the authenticity of your claims. Similarly, it is crucial to maintain clarity and avoid ambiguous statements. By thoroughly understanding the relationship between the subjects, as well as their similarities and differences, writing a compare and contrast essay will become a straightforward task for you. 

But still, if you find essay writing challenging, it would be best to avail the support of Instasolving Homework Help USA . With expert help, pen down impressive essays without breaking a sweat would be easy.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024  

At this point, it might be a good idea to take a sneak peek into the good compare and contrast topics for writing essays. Also, make sure to pick a topic that you can build both sides on. Simply focusing on either comparison or contrast will not solve your purpose. 

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for College Students  

  • E-learning vs. Classroom Learning 
  • School vs. College Writing Center: What’s New? 
  • Students, Who Work vs. Unemployed Students: Who Takes the Best of This Life? 
  • Research Paper and Essay: What Is More Responsible? 
  • Comparing Life with Parents to Living on Campus 
  • Part-Time Jobs vs. Seasonal Jobs 
  • Traditional classes vs. Online Courses 
  • Bachelor’s Degree vs. Associate degree 
  • College vs. Job 
  • Fiction vs. NonFiction 
  • Virtual Reality vs. Augmented Reality
  • Traditional Publishing vs. Self-Publishing
  • Plant-Based Diet vs. Meat-Based Diet
  • Electric Cars vs. Gasoline Cars
  • Online Privacy vs. Security
  • Traditional Banking vs. Digital Banking
  • Classical Music vs. Modern Pop Music
  • Remote Learning vs. Traditional Classroom Learning
  • Freelancing vs. Traditional Employment
  • Urban Living vs. Rural Living
  • Social Media Influencers vs. Traditional Celebrities
  • Home Schooling vs. Public Schooling
  • Renewable Energy vs. Fossil Fuels
  • Modern Art vs. Classical Art
  • Artificial Intelligence vs. Human Intelligence
  • Online Shopping vs. In-Store Shopping
  • Fast Food vs. Home-Cooked Meals
  • Eastern Medicine vs. Western Medicine
  • Streaming Services vs. Traditional Television
  • Climate Change Mitigation vs. Adaptation Strategies
  • Public Transportation vs. Personal Vehicles
  • Introverts vs. Extroverts in the Workplace
  • Veganism vs. Omnivorous Diets
  • 3D Movies vs. 2D Movies
  • Physical Books vs. E-books

Healthcare Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024  

  • Free Health Care and Paid Health Care 
  • Vaccination vs. Medication 
  • Compare two different roles in the field (nurse to doctor) 
  • Osteopathic and allopathic medicine: similarities and differences. 
  • Does the city need mobile first aid stations, or are there enough local hospitals 
  • Where is the best possible care for the sick – at home or in the hospital? 
  • Canadian Health Care and American Health Care 
  • Female vs. male doctors 
  • Operations vs. therapeutic cancer curing. 
  • Should Vaccinations be made mandatory? 

Technology Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024   

  • Mac OS vs. Windows 
  • Spotify vs. Apple Music 
  • Social Media: Positive impact or negative impact 
  • Twitter vs. Instagram 
  • Contrasting Features in Different Generations of Intel Processors 
  • Buying things online vs. Buying things at a shopping mall 
  • Video Conference vs. In-person meeting 
  • Apple or Google Pixel 
  • Machine learning or deep learning 
  • Comparison of different cloud services 

Economy Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024   

  • Do I need to study economics for business research or not 
  • Economic growth is important to improve life or not 
  • Importance of understanding economics vs. no need 
  • Economics and Management: Similarities and differences 
  • Economy vs. Economics 
  • Economics or business studies 
  • Economic upliftment vs. better standard of living 
  • Economic growth or per capita income 
  • Rich and poor: differences and similarities 
  • GDP vs. GNP 

History Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024  

  • World War I vs. World War II 
  • Ancient Greek Civilization vs. Ancient Roman Civilization 
  • The Cold War vs. The War on Terror 
  • The French Revolution vs. The Russian Revolution 
  • The Renaissance vs. The Enlightenment 
  • The British Empire vs. The Roman Empire 
  • The American Civil War vs. The Spanish Civil War 
  • The Civil Rights Movement vs. The Women’s Suffrage Movement 
  • The Industrial Revolution in Europe vs. The Industrial Revolution in the United States 

Politics Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024  

  • Which is better: Free trade or certified trade? 
  • Fascism vs. Nazism 
  • Republicans vs. Democrats 
  • Lincoln vs. Washington 
  • Autocracy vs. Democracy 
  • Oratory or Agenda in Politics 
  • Christian vs. Islamic political thoughts 
  • Use of Technology in Politics 
  • American Government vs. Soviet Government 
  • Socialism vs. communism 

Education Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024   

  • Ebooks vs. Paper Textbooks 
  • Facts vs. Truth 
  • Manual Writing Or Essay Generator  
  • Modern and Ancient Philosophers 
  • Homework help online or home tuition 
  • Indian vs. American education system 
  • Difference Between Ph.D. and Master’s Degree 
  • Oral learning vs. written learning 
  • After-school job or internship 
  • Vocational education vs. academic education 
  • Biology vs. Chemistry 

Sports Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024  

  • Chess vs. Checkers 
  • Aikido vs. Judo 
  • Roger Fedrer or Rafel Nadal 
  • Ice climbing vs. Traditional climbing 
  • Early morning workout vs. late night workout 
  • Ballet vs. Breakdance 
  • American soccer vs. basketball 
  • Ronaldo vs. Messi 
  • Gymming vs. sports 
  • Indigenous sports or modern sports 

Science Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024  

  • Renewable Energy vs. Fossil Fuels 
  • Evolution vs. Intelligent Design 
  • Classical Physics vs. Quantum Physics 
  • Nature Conservation vs. Economic Development 
  • Genetic Engineering vs. Natural Selection 
  • Space Exploration vs. Ocean Exploration 
  • Traditional Medicine vs. Modern Medicine 
  • Animal Testing vs. Alternative Methods 
  • Climate Change: Natural Causes vs. Human Causes 
  • Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) vs. Organic Farming 
  • Nature vs. Nurture: The Influence of Genetics and Environment

Natural Sciences Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024  

  • Similarities between Jupiter and Saturn 
  • Physics vs. anatomy 
  • Fossil & nuclear energy 
  • The correlation between science and technology 
  • Disputable scientific claims 
  • The difference between the sun & moon 
  • Is it possible to live on other planets? 
  • Are hurricanes more dangerous than tornadoes? 
  • Can people apply theories in physics to interpret every life aspect? 
  • Which type of natural disaster does more harm: earthquake vs. tsunami 

Teenagers Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024  

  • University or College: Which is better? 
  • Life in high school vs. life in college 
  • Online tuition or home tuition 
  • Acting vs. Lying 
  • Parental Control vs. Complete Freedom 
  • Spending money on education vs. spending money on fun 
  • Math vs. English: which class is easier? 
  • Childhood vs. Adulthood 
  • Extracurricular activities vs. academics 
  • Boys vs. girls: differences in behavior 

Literature & Language Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024  

  • Classic vs. Modern Literature 
  • Shakespearean Comedies vs. Tragedies 
  • Poetry vs. Prose 
  • British English vs. American English 
  • Novels vs. Movies 

Subjects Specific Compare and Contrast Essay Topics:  

Social sciences compare and contrast essay topics for 2024  .

  • Nature vs. Nurture 
  • Capitalism vs. Socialism 
  • Traditional Family vs. Modern Family 
  • Urban Life vs. Rural Life 
  • Online Shopping vs. Brick-and-Mortar Retail 

Arts and Culture Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024  

  • Renaissance Art vs. Baroque Art 
  • Pop Music vs. Classical Music 
  • Impressionism vs. Cubism 
  • Contemporary Dance vs. Traditional Ballet 
  • Hollywood Movies vs. Bollywood Movies 

Science & Mathematics Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024  

  • Chemistry vs. Biology 
  • Newtonian Physics vs. Quantum Mechanics 
  • Arithmetic vs. Algebra 
  • Psychology vs. Sociology 
  • Climate Change vs. Global Warming 

Social Justice & Equality Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024   

  • Gender Equality vs. Gender Equity 
  • Racial Discrimination vs. Systemic Racism 
  • LGBTQ+ Rights vs. Heteronormativity 
  • Cultural Appropriation vs. Cultural Appreciation 
  • Immigration vs. Nationalism 

Environmental Sustainability Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024  

  • Sustainable Transportation vs. Conventional Transportation 
  • Organic Farming vs. Conventional Farming 
  • Renewable Energy vs. Non-Renewable Energy 
  • Deforestation vs. Afforestation 
  • Plastic Pollution vs. Zero-Waste Movement 

Other Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for 2024  

  • Virtual friends vs. real friends 
  • Judaism vs. Christianity 
  • The way how people live in: Asia vs. Europe 
  • Steve Jobs vs. Bill Gates 
  • Are aliens real or not? 
  • Pizza or Burger? 
  • Comic books vs. Tv shows 
  • Netflix vs. Amazon Prime 
  • Harry Potter: Book vs. Movie 
  • Summer vs. Winter 

Do's and Don'ts of Compare and Contrast Essay Writing:

Still Need Help To Choose Among Good Compare and Contrast Essay Topics!  

This blog has explored an extensive list of the top 100 compare and contrast essay topics for 2024. These topics also cover a wide range of subjects, providing ample options based on your interests and academic requirements. Whether you’re fascinated by history, science, literature, or contemporary issues, there is a topic that will captivate your curiosity and engage your critical thinking skills. 

However, we understand that selecting the right topic can still be daunting, even with many options. Moreover, if you find yourself overwhelmed or uncertain, don’t fret! TutorBin is here to assist you. Furthermore, our expert essay writers possess profound knowledge across various subjects and are ready to help you overcome any writing challenges. Additionally, simply submit your queries, and our dedicated team will provide you with the guidance as well as support you need. 

By seeking essay writing help from TutorBin, you can rest assured that your compare and contrast essays will be of highest quality. Moreover, our skilled writers will deliver exceptional essays on the chosen topics, ensuring you meet your deadlines and achieve outstanding grades. 

So, don’t let the stress of essay writing hold you back. Embrace the challenge, select an intriguing topic from our list.  

Most Popular FAQs on Compare and Contrast Essay Topics   

How to write a compare and contrast essay   .

To write a compare and contrast essay, select subjects, identify key points of comparison, and structure your essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, as well as a conclusion. Also, support your arguments with evidence and ensure a clear flow throughout.  

How to start a compare and contrast essay?   

Start a compare and contrast essay with an engaging introduction that introduces the subjects as well as ends with a strong thesis statement highlighting the main points of comparison.  

What are the main parts of compare and contrast essays?   

Compare and contrast essays develop critical thinking skills and enhance understanding of subjects. It also demonstrates the writer’s ability to present a balanced argument and make meaningful connections between ideas.  

How to find an original compare and contrast essay topic?   

Find an original compare and contrast essay topic by considering your interests, brainstorming ideas, conducting research, and exploring unique angles as well as perspectives. Also, seek inspiration from real-life situations, personal experiences, or pop culture. 

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Compare And Contrast Essay Guide

Compare And Contrast Essay Examples

Last updated on: Mar 22, 2024

Good Compare and Contrast Essay Examples For Your Help

By: Barbara P.

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Mar 22, 2023

Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Are you ready to challenge your critical thinking skills and take your writing to the next level? Look no further than the exciting world of compare and contrast essays! 

As a college student, you'll have the unique opportunity to delve into the details and differences of a variety of subjects. But don't let the pressure of writing the perfect compare-and-contrast essay weigh you down. 

To help guide you on this journey, we've got some great compare-and-contrast essay examples. It will make the writing process not only manageable but also enjoyable. So grab a pen and paper, and let's get started on this exciting adventure!

Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

On this Page

Good Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

A compare and contrast essay is all about comparing two subjects. Writing essays is not always easy, but it can be made easier with help from the examples before you write your own first. The examples will give you an idea of the perfect compare-and-contrast essay. 

We have compiled a selection of free compare-and-contrast essay examples that can help you structure this type of essay. 

SAMPLE COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY EXAMPLE

COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY INTRODUCTION EXAMPLE

BOOK COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY

CITY COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY

CATS & DOGS COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY

SCIENCE & ART COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY

E-BOOKS & HARDBACK BOOKS COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY

HOMESCHOOLING BOOKS COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY

PARENTING STYLES COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY

CONVENTIONAL AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY

Don't know how to map out your compare and contrast essay? Visit this link to learn how to perfectly outline your essay!

Compare and Contrast Essay Examples University

Compare and contrast paper is a common assignments for university students. This type of essay tells the reader how two subjects are the same or different from each other. Also, show the points of comparison between the two subjects.

Look at the example that is mentioned below and create a well-written essay.

COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY EXAMPLE UNIVERSITY

Compare and Contrast Essay Examples College

COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY EXAMPLE COLLEGE

Compare and Contrast Essay Examples High School

Compare and contrast essays are often assigned to high school students to help them improve their analytical skills .

In addition, some teachers assign this type of essay because it is a great way for students to improve their analytical and writing skills.

COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY EXAMPLE HIGH SCHOOL

COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY EXAMPLE 9TH GRADE

Check out the video below to gain a quick and visual comprehension of what a compare and contrast essay entails.

Compare and Contrast Essay Examples Middle school

In middle school, students have the opportunity to write a compare-and-contrast essay. It does not require an expert level of skills, but it is still a way to improve writing skills.

Middle school students can easily write a compare-and-contrast essay with a little help from examples. We have gathered excellent examples of this essay that you can use to get started.

COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY EXAMPLE MIDDLE SCHOOL

COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY EXAMPLES 5TH GRADE

Literary Analysis Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

The perfect way to inform readers about the pros and cons of two subjects is with a comparison and contrast essay.

It starts by stating the thesis statement, and then you explain why these two subjects are being compared in this essay.

The following is an example that you can use for your help.

LITERARY ANALYSIS COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY EXAMPLE

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Compare and Contrast Essay Conclusion Example

The conclusion of an essay is the last part, in which you wrap up everything. It should not include a story but rather summarize the whole document so readers have something meaningful they can take away from it.

COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY CONCLUSION EXAMPLE

Struggling to think of the perfect compare-and-contrast essay topic ? Visit this link for a multitude of inspiring ideas.

Compare and Contrast Essay Writing Tips

A compare and contrast essay presents the facts point by point, and mostly, the argumentative essay uses this compared-contrasted technique for its subjects.

If you are looking for some easy and simple tips to craft a perfectly researched and structured compare and contrast essay, we will not disappoint you.

Following are some quick tips that you can keep in mind while writing your essay:

  • Choose the essay topic carefully.
  • Research and brainstorm the points that make them similar and different.
  • Create and add your main statement and claim.
  • Create a Venn diagram and show the similarities and differences.
  • Choose the design through which you will present your arguments and claims.
  • Create compare and contrast essay outline. Use either the block method or the point-by-point structure.
  • Research and add credible supporting evidence.
  • Transitioning is also important. Use transitional words and phrases to engage your readers.
  • Edit, proofread, and revise the essay before submission.

AI Essay Writer

Create captivating essays effortlessly!

In conclusion, writing a compare and contrast essay can be an effective way to explore the similarities and differences between two topics. By using examples, it is possible to see the different approaches that can be taken when writing this type of essay. 

Whether you are a student or a professional writer, these examples can provide valuable insight to enhance your writing skills. You can also use our AI-powered essay typer to generate sample essays for your specific topic and subject.

However, if you don’t feel confident in your writing skills, you can always hire our professional essay writer.

5StarEssays.com offer comprehensive essay writing service for students across the globe. Our experts are highly trained and qualified, making sure all of your essays will meet academic requirements while receiving top grades. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do i write a compare and contrast essay.

Here are some steps that you should follow and write a great essay.

  • Begin by brainstorming with a Venn diagram.
  • Create a thesis statement.
  • Develop an outline.
  • Write the introduction.
  • Write the body paragraphs.
  • Write the conclusion.
  • Proofreading.

How do you start a compare and contrast essay introduction?

When writing a compare and contrast essay, it is important to have an engaging introduction that will grab the reader's attention. A good way to do this would be by starting with a question or fact related to the topic to catch their interest.

What are some good compare and contrast essay topics?

Here are some good topics for compare and contrast essay:

  • E-books or textbooks.
  • Anxiety vs. Depression.
  • Vegetables and fruits.
  • Cinnamon vs. sugar.
  • Similarities between cultural and traditional fashion trends.

How long is a compare and contrast essay?

Usually, a compare and contrast essay would consist of five paragraphs but there are no hard and fast rules regarding it. Some essays could be longer than five paragraphs, based on the scope of the topic of the essay.

What are the two methods for arranging a comparison and contrast essay?

The two ways to organize and arrange your compare and contrast essay. The first one is the Point-by-Point method and the second one is the Block method.

Barbara P.

Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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Compare and Contrast Puritans and American Culture

This essay about the influence of Puritan ideology on American culture juxtaposes historical context with contemporary society, highlighting shared values like individualism and moral integrity. It explores how religion’s role has evolved from Puritan dominance to a more pluralistic expression in modern America. Additionally, it contrasts the Puritan aversion to worldly pleasures with today’s culture of indulgence, reflecting on the cultural evolution and complexities shaping American identity.

How it works

The Puritan settlers, casting their anchor onto the shores of the New World, brought with them not just their physical presence but also a robust tapestry of beliefs and values that would profoundly influence the evolution of American culture. This essay endeavors to untangle the intricate strands of Puritan ideology and juxtapose them against the backdrop of contemporary American society, illuminating both the converging parallels and diverging paths of these cultural trajectories.

In the crucible of 17th-century America, the Puritans forged a society predicated upon a fervent devotion to God, an unwavering commitment to moral rectitude, and an unyielding work ethic.

Theirs was a world shaped by the dual pillars of religious piety and communal solidarity, where the bonds of faith and fellowship intertwined to form the bedrock of social cohesion.

Embedded within the very DNA of Puritanism and American culture alike is the valorization of individual agency and industrious endeavor. Both epochs extol the virtues of self-reliance, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of success as emblematic of the human spirit’s boundless potential. The Puritan credo of the “Protestant work ethic” finds a modern echo in the American Dream, wherein the narrative of upward mobility and achievement through toil resonates as a clarion call to aspirations unfettered by circumstance.

Moreover, the moral compass guiding both Puritan and contemporary American societies is calibrated to the lodestar of righteousness and integrity. Though the specific contours of moral precepts may have shifted over time, the underlying ethos of ethical rectitude remains a steadfast lodestar guiding societal mores. Concepts such as honesty, fidelity, and compassion serve as perennial touchstones, grounding individuals in a shared moral universe transcending temporal boundaries.

Yet, amidst the tapestry of shared values, subtle divergences emerge, casting shadows upon the landscape of cultural continuity. Foremost among these disparities is the attenuation of religion’s hegemonic sway over public life in contemporary America. Where once the Puritan pulpit exerted an omnipresent influence over matters of governance and jurisprudence, the modern ethos espouses a more pluralistic conception of religious expression, enshrined within the sanctum of individual conscience and constitutional liberty.

Concomitantly, the Puritan abhorrence of worldly pleasures, born from a fear of moral contamination, stands in stark contrast to the ethos of hedonistic indulgence characterizing contemporary American culture. In an age marked by the proliferation of leisure pursuits and the commodification of entertainment, the Puritan injunction against frivolity appears anachronistic, a vestige of a bygone era at odds with the zeitgeist of the present.

In traversing the historical continuum from Puritanism to contemporary American culture, we traverse not merely a linear trajectory but a labyrinthine odyssey of cultural evolution and transformation. While the echoes of Puritan ideology reverberate still within the corridors of American society, shaping its ethos and identity, the variegated hues of modernity have imbued this cultural tapestry with new complexities and contradictions. Through the prism of comparison and contrast, we apprehend not merely the contours of cultural continuity but the kaleidoscopic dynamism of human civilization unfolding across the annals of time.

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IMAGES

  1. 127 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

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  1. 101 Compare and Contrast Essay Ideas for Students

    Recycling vs. Landfill. Motorcycle vs. Bicycle. Halogen vs. Incandescent. Newton vs. Einstein. Go on vacation vs. Staycation. Rock vs. Scissors. Cite this Article. These compare and contrast essay topics provide teachers and students with great and fun ideas for home and class work.

  2. 127 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

    127 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics. Crafting a compare and contrast essay is typically much more interesting and fun than working on a dissertation. With this piece of writing, a student gets his chance to be creative. Besides, one doesn't have to re-invent the bicycle: these essays already have a purpose and a topic.

  3. 75 Dynamic Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

    Whether you're in middle school, high school, or college, these compare and contrast essay ideas will help you get inspired to write some great work. Dictionary Thesaurus Sentences Grammar ... No matter what topic you choose, it's a good idea to brush up on how to write a compare and contrast essay. You'll find that having a great topic ...

  4. 100+ Interesting Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

    Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Students - 2022 Ideas. A compare and contrast essay is an important academic assignment for school or college students. An essential point that you must keep in mind when choosing a compare and contrast essay topic is to go for the subjects that belong to the same category.

  5. 50 College-Level Compare and Contrast Topics for an Essay

    8. Voting rights in the past and today. 9. Immigration to the U.S. in the past and today (compare and contrast the reasons for immigration, its prevalence, requirements of the state, etc.) 10. Communism versus libertarianism. 11. The role of religion in creating legislation in different countries/cultures. 12.

  6. 260 Best Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Students

    Scientific Topics for Compare and Contrast Essays. Microwave vs Oven. Chemistry vs Physics. Andromeda and Milky Way. What are the differences between Mars and Earth. Differences and similarities of the two moon missions. DaVinci vs Thomas Jefferson. Tsunami vs Earthquakes - what's the worse natural phenomenon.

  7. Compare and Contrast Essay: Topics, Outline, Examples

    Psychology Compare and Contrast Essay Topics. Deciding upon good compare and contrast essay topics for psychology assignments can be difficult. Consider referring to our list of 10 psychology compare and contrast essay topics to help get the deserved grades. What is a more severe eating order? Bulimia or Anorexia; Modern Medicine Vs.

  8. 31 Fun Compare and Contrast Essay Topics » JournalBuddies.com

    31 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics & Prompts about Similarities and Differences— In this list of essay topics and prompts, high school students (and other grades, too) will get creative as they think about the similarities and differences between specific topics, like their family members, childhood experiences, lifestyle, and preferences.Read on to discover more…

  9. Comparing and Contrasting in an Essay

    The block method. In the block method, you cover each of the overall subjects you're comparing in a block. You say everything you have to say about your first subject, then discuss your second subject, making comparisons and contrasts back to the things you've already said about the first. Your text is structured like this: Subject 1.

  10. 34 Compelling Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

    Check out our big list of compare and contrast essay topics!) Jump to: What is a compare and contrast essay? Education and parenting essays; Technology essays; Pop culture essays; ... In fact, you can even make a good argument for the Lakers. … In 72 seasons played, the Boston Celtics have won a total of 3,314 games and lost 2,305 or a .590 ...

  11. 170 Creative Compare And Contrast Essay Topics

    3. European Renaissance vs. Harlem Renaissance. Contrast the artistic, intellectual, and societal changes that defined each movement. 4. The American Revolution vs. The French Revolution. Compare the causes, key events, and outcomes of these historical upheavals. 5. Eastern vs. Western Art Traditions.

  12. 100+ Best Compare and Contrast Essay Topics to Ace an Exam

    Let's go over them one by one. 1. Introduction. This is the part where you will give a general background of the subjects you will choose to compare and contrast. It should grab people's attention and make them want to read more. Include a catchy hook to stimulate their engagement and interest.

  13. 80 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

    Learning to read vs. learning to write. The importance of any two school subjects. Wearing glasses vs. having braces. You and your best friend. Friendship vs. romantic love. Group work and individual work. Only child vs. having siblings. Nature vs. nurture. Anxiety and depression.

  14. 300 Amazing Compare and Contrast Essay Topics & Prompts

    History, Anthropology, and Political Compare and Contrast Essay Topics. Democracy vs. authoritarianism: Outcomes and societal impacts. The industrial revolution in Europe vs. America: Paths and consequences. Ancient Egypt vs. Ancient Mesopotamia: Societal structures and innovations. The Cold War: American vs. Soviet strategies and ideologies.

  15. 100 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

    100 Unique Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for College Students. We brainstormed and made up 100 possible topics for your exploration. For helping you narrow them down, we further broke them into 10 various categories, so check them all out carefully. Feel free to pick anything you like and change it in accordance with your own preferences.

  16. 200+ Best Compare And Contrast Essay Topics (2024)

    Compare and Contrast Essay Topics for High School Students. John Locke against Thomas Hobbes. George Bush vs. Donald Trump. Bill Gates and Steve Jobs. Prince and Michael Jackson. Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi. Abraham Lincoln and Winston Churchill. Adolf Hitler and Mussolini. Margaret Thatcher and Theresa May.

  17. 120 Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

    Compare and Contrast Education Essay Topics. Traditional Education vs Online Education. Public Schools vs Private Schools. Homeschooling vs Traditional Schooling. Single-Sex Education vs Co-education. Standardized Testing vs Alternative Assessment Methods. Montessori Education vs Traditional Education. Vocational Education vs Academic Education.

  18. 160+ Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

    Check out these best compare and contrast essay topics and pick one - or come up with your own great idea. Being famous vs being wealthy. Forced lockdown versus recommended quarantine. Traditional classes versus online education. Your current home vs a house of your dreams. Working at home or in the office.

  19. Compare and Contrast College Essay Topics

    3. Use compare and contrast words. Have a list ready of compare and contrast wordsto use when you start your writing. Common compare words include: like, as well as, similar to, similarly, and in common. Contrast words include: although, yet, contrary to, in contrast, and however. It's important to vary your words, so pepper a variety of these ...

  20. Comparing and Contrasting

    Making a Venn diagram or a chart can help you quickly and efficiently compare and contrast two or more things or ideas. To make a Venn diagram, simply draw some overlapping circles, one circle for each item you're considering. In the central area where they overlap, list the traits the two items have in common.

  21. Top 100 Best Compare and Contrast Essays Topics for 2024

    Still Need Help To Choose Among Good Compare and Contrast Essay Topics! This blog has explored an extensive list of the top 100 compare and contrast essay topics for 2024. These topics also cover a wide range of subjects, providing ample options based on your interests and academic requirements. Whether you're fascinated by history, science ...

  22. 15+ Outstanding Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

    Compare and Contrast Essay Examples Middle school. In middle school, students have the opportunity to write a compare-and-contrast essay. It does not require an expert level of skills, but it is still a way to improve writing skills. Middle school students can easily write a compare-and-contrast essay with a little help from examples.

  23. Compare and Contrast the Behavioural Approach in Psychology

    This essay about the evolution of behavioral psychology compares traditional and contemporary approaches using the metaphor of a dance. It begins by describing the early days of behavioral psychology, where behavior was understood strictly in terms of environmental interactions, akin to dancers following a simple, observable routine.

  24. Compare and Contrast Puritans and American Culture

    Essay Example: The Puritan settlers, casting their anchor onto the shores of the New World, brought with them not just their physical presence but also a robust tapestry of beliefs and values that would profoundly influence the evolution of American culture. This essay endeavors to untangle