Brake calipers are a common name, and their scientific name is brake cylinders. They are the same thing. Most cars now use caliper brakes, but it depends on what car it is on. Generally, sedans use caliper brakes, and cylinders are generally used on the rear wheels of vans. 2. Brake calipers refer to the brake calipers, which are the ones that clamp the brake disc. The brake cylinder is a pump connected to a vacuum booster. When the brake pedal is stepped on, the vacuum booster pushes the hydraulic oil in the brake cylinder through the brake oil pipe to make the brake caliper clamp the brake disc to achieve the braking function.