The DB2 Spatial Extender uses a latitude-longitude coordinate system; the DB2 Geodetic Extender uses a planar, x- and y-coordinate system

The DB2 Geodetic Extender is used to describe points, lines, and polygons; the DB2 Spatial Extender is used to find area, endpoints, and intersects

The DB2 Spatial Extender treats the world as a flat map; the DB2 Geodetic Extender treats the world as a round globe

The DB2 Geodetic Extender can be used to manage information like the locations of office buildings or the size of a flood zone; the DB2 Spatial Extender can be used for calculations and visualizations in disciplines like military command/control and asset