What is the difference between an arcane focus 5e and a component pouch in D&D?

Arcane focus 5e (or druidic or divine focus) is an object such as an orb or staff, mistletoe-sprig, holy symbol, or staff that a caster uses for channeling their magic. Think about the Harry Potter books’ wands, Gandalf’s staff, or Merlin’s ring from The Sorcerer’s apprentice. This focus leaves out most of the material components required for spells. That brings another topic. What is the difference between an arcane focus and a component pouch 5e in D&D?
A focus, or arcane, is an object that wizards, warlocks, and sorcerers use to replace non-consumed materials components of spells.

Component Pouch 5e

A component pouch 5e can be helpful to call back to earlier editions. A component pouch is a callback to older editions. These items can usually be reused and are not consumed by the spell. As you travel through the wilderness or in towns, it is assumed that you will replenish your component pouch with items that have been used.

Pouch for Components

adventuring gear
Categories: Items
Standard Item Rarity

Weight: 2

No matter what route you take, all material components must have a listed cost. For example, you need a 500 gp diamond to raise dead. These costs are often associated with powerful spells to balance their use.

What does the rule says about their differences?

A focus replaces the non-GP value items in a spell. Polymorph will need a caterpillar cocoon to cast its spell. However, the GP value of the item is not listed. On the other hand, a component pouch can hold an unlimited number of caterpillar cocoons, so you don’t have to collect them.

These rules also say:
The spellcaster must reach these components with one hand. However, it is possible to use the same hand to perform somatic functions.
You don’t need to have two hands-free to use a component pouch. While you do not need a spare hand to use a focus or pouch, one is sufficient for each item.
These will not work with items with a GP price (which includes items listed in SP and CP). Casting Revivify requires a 300gp diamond.

Summary: Component Pouch 5e vs. Arcana Focus dnd

Material items are an old edition carry-over, but they have been made so you can cast any spell you like without worrying about it in 5e d&d. The components can be found in the pouch. With the bit of bauble that you received at level 1, you can choose the arcane focus instead. Except for a few cases where the DM is required to enforce, material components are considered non-entities in 5e.