Can anyone explain to me the differences between this: http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51XRDjOiVpL._SY300_.jpg
and this: http://www.dash.co.il/image/data/BOB-09540/09540-02.jpg
both say they are the same (on google) but they look so different!
The first image is a complete ready built l298 board that can be connected straight to the Arduino.
The second is sold as a bare pcb, sometmes with the l298 chip, to allow you to custom assemble your own circuit.
The first is probably the better,cheaper option for typical motor control etc.