The difference between panel and cabinet

1 : a usually rectangular section of something (as a door or a wall) 2 : a piece of material (as plywood) made to form part of a surface (as of a wall) 3 : a board into which instruments or controls are set. 4 : a group of people appointed for some service a jury panel.

An electrical enclosure is a cabinet for electrical or electronic equipment to mount switches, knobs and displays and to prevent electrical shock to equipment users and protect the contents from the environment. The enclosure is the only part of the equipment which is seen by users.