The chief difference between a low$-$cost provider strategy and a focused low$-$cost strategy is

the number of areas in the value chain where efforts are being made to achieve cost$-$savings$--$a low$-$cost provider strategy is aimed at achieving cost$-$savings throughout the entire value chain whereas a focused low$-$cost strategy concentrates on achieving cost$-$savings in a few carefully$-$selected value chain activities.

the degree to which a company uses the appeal of a lower price to attract buyers$--$a low$-$cost provider strategy entails deeper price discounting than a focused low$-$cost strategy.

the degree to which the product offering is frills free$--$a low$-$cost provider strategy is aimed at cutting frills and features throughout the entire value chain whereas a focused low$-$cost strategy concentrates on achieving cost$-$savings by cutting a select number of frills and features.

the approach a company uses to achieve a low$-$cost advantage$-$a low$-$cost provider strategy is aimed at performing value chain activities more cost effectively than rivals whereas a focused low$-$cost strategy concentrates on utilizing innovative ways to eliminate or bypass the costs of certain non$-$essential value