The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word VARIES
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
V
A
R
I
E
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Differs" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case differs = varies.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does VARIES mean?
VARIES verb- To change with time or a similar parameter.
- To institute a change in, from a current state; to modify.
- Not to remain constant: to change with time or a similar parameter.
- (of the members of a group) To display differences.
- To be or act different from the usual.
- To make of different kinds; to make different from one another; to diversity; to variegate.
- To embellish; to change fancifully; to present under new aspects, as of form, key, measure, etc. See variation.
- To disagree; to be at variance or in dissension.