Polish compound and rubbing are both polishes used to improve the surface of the car’s paintwork, but they have different uses and properties:
Rubbing is a more aggressive polish that contains coarse abrasives. It is used to remove deep scratches, oxidation, and other severe defects in the paintwork. It removes a thin layer of the Paintto eliminate defects and create a smooth surface.
Polish compound is a milder polish that contains finer abrasives. It is used to remove small scratches, swirls and other minor defects. Polish compound is often used after rubbing/polishing to improve shine and prepare the surface for wax or sealant.