The main difference between proof of work and proof of stake is that with proof-of-work, miners use their computing power to solve difficult mathematical problems, whereas with proof-of-stake, miners are rewarded for validating transactions based on how many coins they own.
Proof of stake is a consensus algorithm. Proof of work is a protocol that people use to mine bitcoin.
Proof of stake is a more energy-efficient approach to mining new blocks, as it doesn’t require the same amount of electricity as proof-of-work.
Proof of work is more decentralized, as anyone can mine new blocks and be rewarded with newly generated bitcoins.
Proof of stake is an alternative to proof of work, which is a system that validates transactions on a blockchain. Proof of work relies on miners to solve complex mathematical problems in order to validate transactions and earn rewards. Proof of stake requires validators (miners) to place a bet. The more the stake, the higher the probability that they will be selected as a validator, and therefore earn rewards.
However, there are some disadvantages for proof-of-stake too. It has been argued that it may not be as secure as proof-of-work because attackers can make fake stakes and still get rewards even if they don’t contribute anything.