Most professional photographers, videographers, and those working in the entertainment industry will find themselves working within a production set at one point of their career.
Gaffers in general tend to carry an extensive toolbox that more than likely contains a few rolls of tape.
Duct tape has been around for ages, we used it when we were a kid and we witnessed our parents using it for those household repairs.
What's the real difference between gaff tape and duct tape? Gaff tape is also known as gaffers tape, gaffing tape, or gaffa tape.
Most photography stores carry this tape and it has also been found in music stores.
The common theme of use for this tape seems to be securing wires, cables, equipment, and used primarily on a set or stage.
It comes in a variety of colors and normally has a low gloss, vinyl, or high gloss finish.
When working on a stage or set, you will want to ensure there are no reflections coming off the lighting.
One pro to using gaff tape is the ability to blend in and deflect reflective light.
Another positive that gaff tape offers is it's easy to rip off but can hold a lot of weight.
Gaff tape has an average of 35 lbs tensile strength per inch which definitely can hold most of equipment found on a set that requires securing.
Duct tape can be inexpensive and is found at most hardware and drug stores.
The tape doesn't come in many colors, it can be found normally in its standard color which is silver.
The amount of residue and the strength it takes to be removed is one of duct tapes major shortcomings.
Many people can think of a time or two they used duct tape to secure something temporarily.
Duct tape has enough adhesive material on it to secure something through extreme weather conditions to include snow and rain.
Gaff tape is used more temporary in nature and can be removed easily without using much muscle at all.
The points that were made in summary had to do with use, purpose, cost, and visual presentation.
If you are working in a studio, stage, or theater, gaffing tape is a more professional approach which is preferred by a lot of the industry today.
Although duct tape can be inexpensive, it does hold its own in situations where you need to secure something.
If you're not concerned with sticky residue on the surface after removal, duct tape is the way to go.
Gaff tape will not leave a residue, its safe on most surfaces and can easily be removed.