Rhythm: Cha-cha is danced to a 4/4 rhythm with a strong emphasis on the first beat of each measure. Swing, on the other hand, is danced to a 4/4 rhythm with a strong emphasis on the second and fourth beats of each measure.
Steps: Cha-cha involves a basic step that consists of a forward step with a hip rotation, followed by a backward step with a hip rotation. Swing, on the other hand, involves a basic step that consists of a six-count pattern: step forward, step forward, step together, step back, step back, step together.
Body movement: Cha-cha is a more fluid dance than swing, with a lot of emphasis on hip movements and body isolations. Swing, on the other hand, is a more energetic dance with a lot of emphasis on arm movements and partner connection.
Tempo: Cha-cha is typically danced at a faster tempo than swing.
Origin: Cha-cha originated in Cuba in the 1950s, while swing originated in the United States in the early 1900s.
Overall, cha-cha and swing are both fun and lively partner dances, but they have different rhythms, steps, body movements, and tempos.