UL and VDE are two of the most recognised approval marks in wire and cable, and specifiers often meet both on the same project. They signal that a product has been independently tested to a defined standard — but they belong to different systems and markets.
UL listing is the reference for North America, covering construction, temperature rating and safe application. VDE approval carries the same weight across Europe and much of Australasia. A manufacturer holding both can supply one qualified product into multiple regions without re-engineering.
When you compare cables, look past the logo to the file number and the specific standard cited. That's what tells you exactly what was tested, at what rating, and for which application — the detail that protects a specification when it reaches site.