A cartridge is, at its basic level, an electromechanical transducer. It turns the mechanical movement of the needle (stylus) in the record groove, into an electrical signal. There are two basic designs of a cartridge - Moving Magnet and Moving Coil (other variations of these do exist, but let's focus on the two most known).
Moving Magnet
In a moving magnet cartridge, the stylus travels through the groove of a record, transferring its mechanical force up a cantilever to a magnet attached at the other end.
The cantilever and magnet move, interacting with a coil to generate an electromagnetic signal. The signal is then output through the four pins at the back of the cartridge.
Moving Magnet cartridges are typically more affordable, durable, and compatible with a wider range of phono preamps due to their higher output levels. They're ideal for those seeking ease of use, with replaceable styli that make maintenance straightforward and cost-effective. However, MM cartridges can lack the fine detail retrieval and dynamic nuance found in higher-end MC models.
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Moving Coil
In a moving coil cartridge, the mechanical process is the opposite of a moving magnet design. The mechanical force of the stylus transfers up the cantilever to a coil rather than a magnet.
Moving Coil cartridges are favored by many for their superior clarity, resolution, and transient response. Their lower moving mass allows for greater accuracy in tracking vinyl grooves. That said, MC cartridges often require specialized, higher-gain phono stages (or step-up transformers), and their stylus is usually non-replaceable — meaning the entire cartridge must be replaced or professionally rebuilt when worn.
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