Whats the difference between using request('id') and $request->id

There is only one difference.

request() is a helper method. It essentially just allows you to call it anywhere without needing to inject the request through the method arguments. It's also much easier to use.

$request is used from the injection, function (Request $request).

Oh, it also means you don't need to import the request class at the top of your file.

You can also do:

request('name'),
request()->name,
request()->input('name')
$request->name
$request->input('name')

Just like other methods that you'll use, it's for convenience. view() is a helper method, it saves you from needing to do View::make('view.name');