Credenzas and consoles are both pieces of furniture used for storage and display but they have different silhouettes and purposes.
A credenza is a long, low cabinet often used in dining rooms, dens, media rooms, or offices. They generally feature a flat top for serving or displaying items and offer concealed cabinet storage underneath. Many credenzas also come equipped with some drawers. Credenzas can be used for a variety of different purposes, including as a storage place for dishes, linens, or office supplies, a serving buffet, or a TV stand.
In contrast to a credenza, which is considered a case piece, a console is a type of table. Consoles are generally tall, narrow tables that come outfitted with minimal or no storage. Like a credenza, a console usually has a flat top surface for displaying decorative items like artwork, lamps, or vases. Consoles are typically more focused on aesthetics, serving as accent pieces to enhance the visual appeal of a room, while also providing some functional storage space. They are often used for creating an attractive focal point in an area or for filling an empty wall space.