The differences between the continuous variation and discontinuous variation are shown in the below table:
| Continuous variation | Discontinuous variation |
| It is a complete range of measurements, which ranges from one extreme to the other extreme. | It makes the population to come under distinct classes. These classes or categories are based on features, which will not have range. It describes the discrete phenotype of simple Mendelian genetics. |
| Continuous variation is a polygenic inheritance, the inheritance which is controlled by number of genes. | Discontinuous variation is controlled by single gene or few genes. These traits show a simple relationship between genotype and phenotype. |
| Continuous variation is influenced mainly by environmental factors. | Discontinuous variation is less influenced by environmental factors. |
| If we draw a histogram, we will get a bell-shaped curve in which the mean value, central value, and the maximum value of the data will be the same. | Chi-square will work in discontinuous variation. |
| The examples of continuous variation are weight, height, span of hand, color, yield of milk by a cow, and so on. | Examples of discontinuous variation can be the blood group of a person, which is distinct. Also seed shape and sickle cell anemia are good examples. |