Polished chrome might be a tad shinier -- depending on the manufacturer -- but probably not so significant that it would look noticeably different from a finish designated as "chrome."

Polished chrome

Polished Chrome is a popular finish for handlesets, door knobs and other door hardware. This finish is also called Bright Chrome by some manufacturers like Schlage and Kwikset, just plain Chrome by others and often referred to by it's finish code of 26. Polished Chrome has a mirror like finish which provides a bright, clean and modern look.

Aren't they saying it's all the same thing?

Yes, it's the same thing. Chrome is by default "polished" by which is meant bright and shiny. It does not have to be. There is brushed chrome, matte chrome, etc., but it is almost always identified by the adjective qualifier.

There is such a thing as highly polished chrome, which is chrome that has in fact been carefully polished, sometimes called mirror-like chrome. Take a look at aRestoration Hardware chrome faucet for an example.

Thanks All for the reply! Very helpful.