Hot - rolled H - beam is produced at high temperatures, typically above the recrystallization temperature of steel. It has a relatively rough surface finish and larger dimensional tolerances. However, it is more cost - effective and suitable for large - scale construction projects where high precision is not the primary requirement. Cold - formed H - beam, on the other hand, is manufactured at room temperature by bending and shaping thin - walled steel sheets. It has a smooth surface, higher dimensional accuracy, and better surface quality. Cold - formed H - beam is often used in applications where lightweight and precise components are needed, such as in some light - gauge steel structures and interior building partitions.