The terms drop forging and press forging are often used interchangeably. However, the processes are different and should not be confused. Drop forging occurs when the steel is hammered multiple times to make it more malleable. The process can be operated at any temperature, including at high or room temperatures. During the drop forging process, the layers on the steel surface are transformed into a preferred shape. However, the middle of the metal remains largely untouched. The initial investment for drop forgings is less than press forging, but costs can become more expensive as the production volumes increase.

On the other hand, the press forging process utilizes a slow, consistent pressure to shape metal into a predetermined shape. Instead of using multiple hammer blows to shape the metal, this process uses one single blow. Press forging can also be processed at any temperature.