What Is the Difference Between a Monkey & a Chimpanzee?

Chimpanzees are a species of apes. Though apes are commonly mistaken for monkeys, the two are actually very distinct categories. There are several differences among them, ranging from the obvious to the subtle.

  1. Tails

    • Perhaps the most obvious difference between monkeys and chimpanzees is that monkeys have long tails, some of which are prehensile, and chimpanzees do not have tails.

    Brain-to-Body Ratio

    • Chimpanzees have a higher brain-to-body ratio than monkeys do. Their brains are bigger and they display more intelligence and human traits.

    Size

    • Chimpanzees are usually larger than monkeys. Male chimps can stand up to 5.5 feet tall and weigh more than 150 pounds. Monkeys, in contrast, rarely reach heights of more than 3 feet and almost always weigh less than 75 pounds.

    Genetics

    • Humans, like chimpanzees, are classified as apes. Chimpanzees share almost 99 percent of their DNA with humans, but most monkeys share only about 93 percent.

    Posture

    • Chimpanzees are able to walk on two legs, stand and move upright. Monkeys generally use their hands and feet while walking.

    Lifespan

    • Although average lifespans vary between species, chimpanzees usually live longer than monkeys, with a typical lifespan of between 35 and 60 years. Monkeys do not usually live past 50 years.