Use Apply When
You are managing manifests as source-controlled desired state.
You expect to re-run updates as the resource evolves.
Compare
kubectl apply vs create
When declarative updates are better than one-time object creation in Kubernetes.
`kubectl create` is a straightforward create-once command. `kubectl apply` is designed for declarative configuration that you expect to update over time.
Use Create When
You are creating a resource for the first time and do not need patch-like behavior.
You are working interactively and want a simpler object-creation step.
Rule of Thumb
Apply for ongoing config. Create for initial object creation.
Want the short version? Browse the compact sheet views and save the commands you use most into a Cheatbook.