- Music style: One Direction is known for their catchy pop songs with a focus on vocal harmonies, while Coldplay has a more alternative rock sound that incorporates elements of post-Britpop, electronic rock, and psychedelic rock.
- Popularity: One Direction was one of the biggest boy bands in history, selling over 20 million albums worldwide and having multiple chart-topping singles. Coldplay is also a very successful band, selling over 80 million albums worldwide and winning numerous awards, including nine Grammy Awards.
- Target audience: One Direction mostly attracted younger girls, while Coldplay appeals to a more general audience across a wide a demo graphic range.
- Both bands continue to produce music new music and maintain fan bases around the world