Drying time is the amount of time it takes for the paint to become touch-dry, meaning that you can gently touch the surface without leaving a fingerprint. Cure time is the amount of time it takes for the paint to harden completely and reach its full durability. For water-based paints, these two times are typically close together, while for oil-based paints, cure time can take several days or even weeks. It's important to note that even though the paint may feel dry to the touch, it may not be fully cured and may still be vulnerable to scratches and other damage during the cure time. It's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for both dry and cure times to ensure the best results for your project.