A missile once launched is going towards a target and has limited flight time based on fuel and range. There can be course redirection of a missile up to a point, but is limited. Also, terminal guidance can be used to lock on to a target, but may not be readily redirected.

A drone is a loitering aircraft normally with more fuel and flight time than a missile. Drones are controlled by an operator a high percentage of the time, who has a visual device like a camera to search for a target. The drone operator with proper skill, can look for a specific target, assess potential collateral damage, and select the best aspect to attack the target. How effective a drone strike is compared to a missile is dependent on warhead used and type of target.