Maven and Gradle are both build automation tools used for managing and building software projects. They serve similar purposes, but there are differences in how they work and their features. Here's a simple comparison:

**1. Syntax:**
- **Maven:** Uses an XML-based syntax called Project Object Model (POM).
- **Gradle:** Uses a Groovy-based or Kotlin-based Domain Specific Language (DSL).

**2. Flexibility:**
- **Maven:** Provides a more opinionated structure and enforces certain conventions. Configuration options are predefined and sometimes less flexible.
- **Gradle:** Offers greater flexibility and customization. You can define your own build logic and customize various aspects of the build process.

**3. Project Structure:**
- **Maven:** Requires projects to follow a specific directory structure. Configuration is centralized in the POM file.
- **Gradle:** Offers more flexibility in project structure. You can customize the directory layout and organize your code and resources in a way that suits your project.

**4. Dependency Management:**
- **Maven:** Uses a centralized approach for dependency management. Dependencies are defined in the POM file and stored in a local repository.
- **Gradle:** Utilizes a decentralized approach. Dependencies are defined in the build script, and resolution can be optimized through caching.

**5. Plugins:**
- **Maven:** Offers a wide range of plugins for common tasks. Custom plugins can be developed using Java.
- **Gradle:** Provides a powerful plugin system. Build logic can be extended using Groovy or Kotlin scripts.

**6. Performance:**
- **Maven:** Can be slower for large projects due to its centralized approach to dependency resolution.
- **Gradle:** Often performs better due to its incremental build and caching mechanisms.

**7. Learning Curve:**
- **Maven:** Easier to get started with due to its standard project structure and predefined conventions.
- **Gradle:** May have a steeper learning curve, especially for complex projects, due to its high customization potential.

**8. Build Scripting:**
- **Maven:** Configuration is mostly declarative, and tasks are predefined.
- **Gradle:** Configuration can include both declarative and imperative elements, allowing more fine-tuned build scripting.

**9. IDE Integration:**
- **Maven:** Well-supported in many IDEs, but some integrations might be more basic.
- **Gradle:** Offers rich IDE integrations with features like incremental builds, improved dependency resolution, and better build tooling.

**10. Community and Trends:**
- Both Maven and Gradle have strong communities and are widely used in the industry. Gradle's flexibility and modern features have led to increased adoption in recent years.

In simple terms, Maven provides a standardized and relatively straightforward approach to build automation, while Gradle offers greater flexibility, customizability, and performance benefits, especially for larger or more complex projects. The choice between them depends on your project's requirements, your familiarity with the tools, and your preferences for configuration and flexibility.