Gel vs. Solar Nails: A Comprehensive Comparison

Question
QUESTION: What are the differences?  I usually get Solar...went to get a new set tonight and realized that she was not about to buff and asked why...she said these were gel...ticks me off but it's cheaper and it's pretty so I really want to know the difference before I have them taken off and have solar put on.  I like that with the solar there is no waiting for the polish to dry...I didn't have to wait long for whatever she applied to my nails but I still waited longer than I wanted to.  Anyway, if you could tell me the difference I'd appreciate it.  Thanks!

ANSWER: I really don't know what you are getting as solar nails. Solar is a line of nail care by Creative, consists of a cuticle oil, a balm and a lotion, and sometimes salons use the term "solar nails" to confuse their clients into thinking they are getting a superior product associated with the brand Creative, but the fact is there is no such thing as solar nails.
By your description you are getting regular acrylic nails, what i don't understand is not waiting for the polish to dry...
The difference between gel and acrylic is basically application, both products are very strong, but there are some characteristics that differ, gel has a built-in shine, so there is no need to buff, but does not dissolve in acetone, can be an advantage since you can remove polish with acetone, but can also be a disadvantage since it has to be filed to remove.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Well I've been getting Pink/White where they buff the nails with a buffing creme.  Now with the gel pink/white they didn't use a buffing creme...they put what looked like to be a clear coat of nail polish.

I guess my quesiton is what's the difference between Pink/White vs gel pink/white?

Answer
The difference is the application and that gel does not need to be buffed, to shine, the last coat (which is gel) gives shine and dryers in 2 min on the UV light. Acrylic dissolves in acetone and gel does not. The final results may also show some difference, but it is a matter of taste. Certainly there is not one better than another.