Parking brakes come in two main styles now: the traditional manual lever or pedal, and the newer electronic push-button type. Each holds the car when parked but works very differently. Here is how they compare.
The manual parking brake
A manual parking brake uses a hand lever, foot pedal, or pull handle connected by a steel cable to the rear brakes - see how the parking brake works. It is simple, cheap to fix, and works with no power, but the cable can stretch or seize and needs occasional adjustment.
The electronic parking brake
An electronic parking brake (EPB) engages with a small button; a motor at each rear caliper clamps the brake. It frees up console space, can apply automatically when you park, and often releases as you drive off. The downside is complexity and cost when it fails; see do electric parking brakes fail.
Servicing the difference
A manual brake is easy to adjust and service by hand. An EPB usually needs a scan tool to put it in service mode before you can change the rear pads - compressing the piston by hand can damage the motor. That is the biggest practical difference at brake time.
Both hold the same brakes
Either type ultimately clamps the rear brakes, so keep those in good shape; see when to replace pads. Fit quality pads and hardware.