Opening a tab in Tables app Tables App Icon involves opening a Seating Group and potentially swiping a card to add the customer’s name to the order. The card is not preauthorized for any amount.

Opening a tab in Authorizations app Auth Only app icon or Bar Tabs Auths app Bar Tabs app icon involves first entering an amount and then swiping a card to preauthorize that amount.

 

Reference Site: https://help.clover.com/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-opening-a-tab-in-tables-app-vs-opening-a-tab-in-authorizations-app-or-bar-tabs-auth-app/