What they share
Both have stone, moving water and a pump. Both create sound and movement. The difference is what happens at the bottom.
Pond with a waterfall
A pond holds water on the surface, can have fish and plants and gives a mirror-like look. It needs filtration and more care, but offers the fullest water garden experience.
Pondless waterfall
Water falls and disappears into a hidden basin. There is no open water, no fish and much less care. It suits small spaces, families and low-maintenance owners.
Safety
A pondless feature has no standing water, which is a plus for families with small children and pets. A pond can be built with shallow edges and safety features, but needs more thought.
Upkeep
Ponds need more cleaning, plant care and seasonal work. Pondless features mainly need pump cleaning, an occasional rinse and a water-level check.
Making the choice
If you want fish and plants, choose a pond. If you want sound and low care, choose pondless. Many people start with pondless and add a pond later.
Choose a pond for fish and plants, and a pondless waterfall for sound with minimal care.
