Electric hoists are powered directly by electricity and use electric motors to lift and lower loads. They are typically smaller and more portable, suitable for lighter loads and indoor use. Electric-motor-driven hoists, on the other hand, use an electric motor to power a separate mechanism, often a winch or pulley system, to move loads. These are generally more robust, capable of handling heavier loads, and are often used in construction and industrial settings. The main differences lie in their power transmission methods, load capacity, and the environments in which they are used.