I think usually tri shoes have just one closure instead of 2-3. So you have less possibilities for adjustment, but on a short ride (normal tris are either 20 or 40 km on the bike) it doesn't really become an issue.

They may also be more appropriate to ride barefoot in (as Running Mommy pointed out).

If you don't intend on doing tris and think about riding long distances, I'd suggest getting normal road shoes. They usually have more micro-adjustments that you will find helpful on the long run.