Difference between git stash pop and git stash apply

The difference between git stash pop and git stash apply lies mainly in how they treat the stashed changes after applying them. Both are used to re-apply changes that were previously saved using git stash, but their behavior after doing so is what sets them apart.

git stash apply

• Re-applies the changes from the latest stash (or a specific one if provided).
  
• Does not remove the stash from the stash list.
  
• Ideal when you want to test or reuse the same stash multiple times.
  

Command:

  git stash apply

git stash pop

• Re-applies the changes from the stash.
  
• Removes the stash entry after applying it.
  
• Great when you're ready to integrate the changes and no longer need the stash.
  

Command:

  git stash pop

In short:

• Use git stash apply when you want to keep the stash.
  
• Use git stash pop when you're done with it and want it removed after applying.
  

Quick Tip:

• If there are conflicts while applying, both commands will show merge conflicts. However, with stash pop, if the merge fails, the stash is not removed—so you're safe either way.
  
• These commands are handy when switching contexts or trying out different changes without losing progress.