It would be a surprise to most people that squid and calamari are different. A squid is known for their soft flesh while calamari represents a kind of squid species that have fins that run on the full length of the calamari’s body. Squids also have side fins but are shorter compared to calamari. It is easier to see the difference in their physical appearance if seen at the same time.
One noticeable feature is the difference in their flaps. Squid has a smaller and pointed flap while calamari has a long triangular flap. Calamari is smaller than a squid and has a tenderer flesh than of a squid. Squids are best cooked for stewing and stuffing while calamari is best for grilling, frying, and stir-frying.