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Mechanically, they both seem to be d20 rolls with an added ability modifier to overcome some type of challenge. Why call it a "saving throw" and not just present it as a passive ability check?
The reason I'm confused is that I'm coming from 4th edition, and they were completely different mechanics in that game. The use of two terms to describe what is basically the same thing seems confusing to me here.
They are different for 2 reasons
They're different so that other rules can affect them differently. For example, a rule that lets you add your Proficiency bonus to Strength checks doesn't add to Strength-based saves precisely because they are separated in that way. If Saving Throws were defined as just a type of Ability Check, this granularity would be unavailable to other rules.
In-play, my use of it boils down to saving throws being for things affecting your character, while ability checks are for things your character initiatives.
This also makes it easier to remember which one to ask my players to roll :)
They are different so that magic items can be granular.
For example, you can have an item that adds to saving throws but not ability checks or skill checks.
We use saving throws when you have to react to something without preparation, vs planning or initiating something yourself. So a character who intentionally tries to slide across a slick surface makes an Acrobatics check, vs a player who suddenly slips on a Grease spell makes a Dexterity save.
