Here are the main differences between these two settings:
Pave settings are held in position by small beads or prongs, whereas channel settings are set into a groove cut into the band. Of the two, channel settings offer more security for the diamonds.
Because light interaction with pave settings is higher, pave set rings are more brilliant and dazzling. Channel settings have a more subdued sparkle.
Pave settings can make the center diamond appear larger and enhance its sparkle. In some cases, the diamond can appear up to 20% times larger than its original size. Channel settings, on the other hand, add to the beauty of the setting, but doesn’t tend to make the center diamond look larger or more brilliant.
Channel settings often utilize different types of gemstones and diamond shapes while the most common type of stones used for pave settings are round diamond melees.