KINK vs BDSM

Kink

Kink is defined as the sexual preferences of a person, often sexual practices, concepts or fantasies that are considered unconventional. Because terms like 'normal' or 'unusual' are inherently relative terms, what is or is not a kink can vary widely among different communities and even individuals. Kink is an umbrella term used to describe a wide range of sexual activities that are considered to be unconventional or unorthodox. Part of the difficulty in defining the term is that it is so subjective. To one person, sex toys might be kinky, while to another, the use of toys might be routine.  

BDSM

BDSM can be considered to be under the umbrella of Kink, in that this community consists of people who enjoy certain sexual practices. These practices can include inflicting or receiving of pain. In some BDSM relationships there exists a master/slave dynamic, where there is an intentional imbalance of power. BDSM can be a 24-hour activity, where the submissive may be required to do certain things during the day or face punishment as a consequence. BDSM is one of the first things that springs to mind when someone hears the word kink, it's far from the only kinky practice out there. Sexual acts such as spanking dripping candle wax on the skin, participating in orgies, swinging and role-playing are also often considered to be kinky, as are some unusual sex positions or usage of sex toys. 

Difference:

Kink and BDSM are often grouped together as non-traditional types of sexual activity and sometims it's hard to tell them apart. The primary difference is BDSM involves a power exchange or differential between sexual partners, while kink describes a broader category of sex that can, but doesn't have to, involve power dynamics.