The difference is the weight of the buffer. The weights are as follows:
Carbine: 3 ounces
H: 4 ounces
H2: 4.65 ounces
H3: 5.6 ounces
The different buffer weights assist your rifle to cycle with different barrel lengths. H1 is for 16”+. H2 for 11” to 14.5”. H3 for pistol length barrels and full auto.
The H1 uses two steel weights and one tungsten weight, the H2 uses two tungsten and one steel weight while the H3 uses three tungsten weights. If you have a standard buffer and you buy an H3 buffer you can use their weights to build both an H1 and an H2.
The H, H2, and H3 indicates the weight of the buffer. A heavier buffer is sometimes needed for suppressed rifles and ones with shorter gas systems to counteract the increased gas pressure being blown back into the chamber.
Amount of weight in the buffer.