What is the difference between calling Apex with @wire and calling it imperatively in LWC?

@wire

• Declarative and reactive: re-runs automatically when $ parameters change.
• Requires the Apex method to be @AuraEnabled(cacheable=true).
• Results are cached client-side; refresh with refreshApex.
• Can't be triggered manually; ideal for read-only data on load.

Imperative

• You call the method like a promise on an event (button click, etc.).
• Works with non-cacheable methods, so it can perform DML.
• You control timing and handle .then/.catch or async/await.

async handleSave() {
  try { await saveRecord({ rec: this.rec }); }
  catch (e) { this.error = e.body.message; }
}

Use wire for reading data, imperative for DML or user-triggered calls.