Yes..sobriety and recovery are two different things.
I see sobriety when a person "white knuckles" through life. They don't have the tools to deal with things that come up and their triggers are something that will lead to their using again.
In recovery, the person has the tools and resources (support) to do something other than "white knuckle" their life. They reach out during their weak points; admit their triggers and work around them.
Either one can relapse, at any time, but which one would be more successful in sustaining a sober lifestyle? I think the one in recovery.
My husband was 13 years sober. Relapsed recently. Now, he is on the road to recovery.