What is the difference between a Signing Stick and the Smartcard?

The Signing Stick comes in the form of an USB Stick and needs that your USB port is activated.

The Smartcard comes in the form of a credit card and can be stocked in your purse:

the Smartcard needs a card reader which the Signing Stick does not need. Both certificates have a validity of 3 years and are equipped with an electronic chip containing a certificate for authentication and a certificate for electronic signature.