How is a reef tank different than a FOWLR?

[Gatorfreak]

Probably a stupid question but I'm new to this and planning to start a tank. Is the only difference between a FOWLR and a reef tank that the reef tank has live rock with corals on it?

 

[phases99]

invertebrates make FOWLR a reef tank. The only stupid question is the one you don't ask.

 

[Atari]

Technically, anyone with LR in their tank has a reef. The only difference is whether or not they choose to keep corals.

As far as equipment, the lighting is the main upgrade from one to the other.