Subraces, or racial variants, are slight variations of a particular race. Subraces often have differing racial backgrounds, and small changes to their abilities, whilst still falling into the category of the original race. Dragonborn.

What are Subraces?

Subrace, a taxonomic division below race (biology) Subrace or sub-race, a particular variety ("Grey Elf", "Cave Troll", etc.) of a fictional "race" in fantasy fiction and gaming.

What is the difference between a Subrace and variant?

Variants replace some traits of the base race with new ones. On the other hand, a subrace adds traits to the base race. From a game perspective, a race which is supposed to have subraces can't be played without said subraces. Variants are often (but not necessarily) seen as optional.