Subsistence farming is a type of agriculture where crops are grown and livestock are reared to fulfill the needs of the farmer and his family. The output produced is primarily used for local consumption, with little to no surplus trade. This type of farming is labor-intensive and is practiced in small areas. It depends on monsoon for irrigation and traditional methods are used for cultivation.
On the other hand, commercial farming is a farming method where crops are raised and cattle are reared with the aim of selling the produce in the market to earn money. This type of farming is capital-intensive and is practiced in large areas. It uses modern irrigation methods and machines for cultivation.
The fundamental difference between subsistence and commercial farming is that while subsistence farming is done for one’s own consumption, commercial farming is done for trading purposes.