There is a difference between these contact lenses. If you choose to wear soft contacts, you can expect an easy adjustment from glasses if you have never worn contacts before. Soft contact lenses are light, soft, and made of a very flexible silicone hydrogel that forms the eye shape and helps stay put. Oxygen is able to pass through the soft contact lens easily and can help contribute to your eye's overall health.
Hard contacts or rigid contacts are a little different than soft contact lenses. Hard contacts are necessary for some patients with unique eye conditions; such as keratoconus or irregular astigmatism. These rigid contact lenses can potentially provide very crisp and clear vision and are very easy to care for. Hard contacts are incredibly durable and can last 2-3 years with correct proper hygiene before needing to be replaced.