The Big Difference Between Drawer Slides & Glides

Drawer slides and glides are both pieces of hardware used to properly (and smoothly) open and close drawers. While both mechanisms are meant to hold the weight of the drawer and to move it smoothly, there is one big difference between drawer slides and drawer glides: drawer slides typically contain ball bearings that help move the drawer in and out, while drawer glides contain plastic wheels to accomplish the same task.

Because drawer slides contain ball bearings, they often move more smoothly and effortlessly than drawer glides. You can usually find plastic drawer glides on discount furniture since they are more cost-effective than their steel alternatives. Due to their materials, you can expect drawer slides to last longer than drawer glides.

While their overall material components are the biggest difference between these two hardware options, there are other notable differences you should take into consideration when choosing between slides and glides. Easily sliding kitchen drawers can make a major difference in the functionality and feel of your kitchen, so this is an important decision to weigh.

When deciding between drawer slides and glides, it's important to understand how you will be using your drawer. Will this drawer hold heavy items, or maybe just some light odds and ends? Glides generally have lower weight limits since they are made of plastic, making them suitable for lighter-capacity loads. On the other hand, slides can move heavier drawer loads due to their steel ball bearings.

Drawer glides are typically easier to install for DIY drawer and pull-out cabinet projects, whereas slides are more complex to install because of their design. Speaking of which, glide tracks are attached to the cabinet's side, whereas slide tracks are more complex and can have the track attached to the cabinet's side or bottom.

Above all of these differences, drawer slides come in an array of different functions, making them fit virtually any need you have. For example, soft-close slides slow down the speed as the drawer closes, making it so that little fingers don't get a shocking pinch. Touch-release slides can open the drawer with a touch, similar to the mechanism on food storage containers. Plastic drawer glides don't offer as many personalization options due to their materials. Whichever you choose, the drawer slide or glide, it's good to understand the differences between the two so you can upgrade your base cabinets with the easiest ever sliding shelves.