ISTPs and INTPs are both Introverted, Thinking, and Perceiving types. They exhibit a wide range of similarities in their behavior and cognitive processing. However, they do differ in some aspects due to their slightly different ordering of cognitive functions. Here are some differences between ISTP vs INTP.

ISTP Function Stack

Introverted Thinking (Ti)

Extraverted Sensing (Se)

Introverted Intuition (Ni)

Extraverted Feeling (Fe)

INTP Function Stack

Introverted Thinking (Ti)

Extraverted Intuition (Ne)

Introverted Sensing (Si)

Extraverted Feeling (Fe)

ISTP vs INTP: Optimization

Introverted Thinking (Ti), also known as logic, is a function extremely concerned with optimization. Both INTPs and ISTPs are perfectionists in this sense, constantly looking for better methods and ways to solve problems and accomplish goals. However, the objects of their interest are entirely different. As ISTPs have Extraverted Sensing (Se) as their auxiliary cognitive function, they are adept at manipulating their physical environment. They are extremely proficient in figuring out leverage points in the external environment and using that to their advantage. They could be high performing athletes, performers, or mechanical engineers. You may often find them in the garage tinkering with machines and taking them apart. INTPs have Extraverted Intuition (Ne) as their auxiliary cognitive function. INTPs are not as interested in their physical environment as much as ISTPs, and their obsession is more with ideas than things. They might spend days researching a topic they are interested in or thinking deeply about their current area of obsession. If you see INTPs tinkering with machines, they are probably more interested in the underlying physical theories of nature that such machines can tell them about rather than the actual material nuances of the machines.

ISTP vs INTP: External appearance

ISTPs have Extraverted Sensing (Se) as their auxiliary function, whereas INTPs have Extraverted Sensing (Se) as their blind spot. As ISTPs are more attuned to the physical environment in comparison to INTPs, they are more likely to care about their exterior appearance to others. INTPs are the stereotypical professors with a messy hairstyle thrown in, while ISTPs are the stereotypical bikers wearing leather jackets and dark sunglasses.

ISTP vs INTP: Socializing

Both ISTPs and INTPs have Extraverted Feeling (Fe) as their inferior function. As such, they shy away from confrontation and other difficult social situations. They often maintain a warm exterior and seek harmony. Too much social interaction and small talk leave them drained and needing time alone to recharge. However, they have an intrinsic need to serve others and aspire to use their talents for the good of society.

ISTP vs INTP: New experiences

In order to attain personal growth, both ISTPs and INTPs should seek to expand their horizons, either through exposure to new ideas and concepts (Ne for INTP) or via novel physical experiences (Se for ISTP). Both types should be careful not to dwell too much in their comfort zone. At times, INTPs may fall into a Ti-Si loop and spiral into analyzing and breaking down the same idea again and again. ISTPs may fall into a Ti-Ni loop, constantly worrying about the future and whether they are good enough. To reach their true potential, both types should break out of their comfort zone and have the courage to explore new possibilities.

Famous INTPs include Albert Einstein and Bill Gates, among others. Famous ISTPs include Kristen Stewart.