Are cupcake molds and muffin pans the same thing?

Functionally, yes. Standard cupcake molds and muffin pans are interchangeable both have the same cup size and shape. The only difference is in how they are used: cupcakes are typically baked with paper liners and frosted, while muffins are baked directly in greased cups. Any pan labeled as a muffin pan works perfectly for cupcakes, and vice versa.