1. SEM is based on scattered electrons while TEM is based on
transmitted electrons.
2. SEM focuses on the sample’s surface and its composition whereas
TEM provides the details about internal composition. Therefore
TEM can show many characteristics of the sample, such as
morphology, crystallization, stress or even magnetic domains. On
the other hand, SEM shows only the morphology of samples.
3. The sample in TEM has to be cut thinner whereas there is no
such need with SEM sample.
4. TEM has much higher resolution than SEM.