Best Answer: Smashed potatoes are generally mashed with the skin on, while mashed potatoes have the skin removed. Also, One distinct difference between smashed potatoes and mashed potatoes is the way in which the potatoes are smashed. Most recipes argue for hand mashing with either a fork or handheld masher. Mashed potatoes, on the other hand, are often mashed with a handheld masher and then whipped with an electric mixer. **now I learned my mashed potatoes are probably really smashed potatoes because I do not then whip w/ an electric mixer, lol.