Mounting Types
Under Mount: Mounted beneath the drawer bottom - invisible from the outside. Popular in kitchens where exposed metal is avoided. Higher price point due to adjustment mechanisms. Lower weight capacity, and drawer bottoms must sit higher to accommodate components, reducing usable space in shallow drawers.
Side Mount: Most common in workshops and technical environments. Higher load capacity, more cost-efficient - major benefit for multi-drawer projects. If you accept (or prefer) the visible metal look, significant savings without compromise.
| Property | Side Mount | Under Mount |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Slides visible | Fully concealed |
| Load Capacity | Higher | Lower |
| Installation | Measure twice, cut once | Adjustments possible |
| Cost | Cheaper, tools/workshops | Pricier, kitchens |
| Space | No height loss | Shallow drawers lose height |
Extension Types
Ever struggle to reach items at the back of your IKEA drawer? That's a 3/4 extension slide - cheapest option with minimal features.
Full extension pulls the drawer so the back reaches the cabinet front.
Over-extension brings the entire drawer box past the cabinet face - ideal for accessing all contents.
Features Guide
Length (Stroke Length)
Drawer depth measurement. Typically available in 50mm increments for metric/imperial compatibility (50mm ≈ 2 inches).
Load Classification
Weight capacity per pair:
- Light (L): <20 kg - Kitchen drawers, measuring equipment, lightweight items
- Medium (M): 20-50 kg - Most common. Tool drawers, large drawers, heavy objects
- Heavy-Duty (H): 50-120 kg - Serious applications. Very large/long drawers, pull-out camper furniture, big bulky items
- Extra Heavy-Duty (XH): >120 kg - Extreme cases. Pull-out beds, large platforms
Key Features
Detachable: Full-extension slides have three members. The inner member detaches, simplifying installation dramatically. Mount the main slide to your frame, inner member to your drawer box, then slide together. Always recommended - makes life easier.
Hold Closed: Drawer stays closed until pulled with light effort.
Hold Open: Drawer stays open, requires firmer push to close.
Locking: Drawer locks when fully opened or closed. Lever mechanism releases.
Push-To-Open: Opens only when pushed - useful when hands are full. Press with elbow or hip.
Bumper: Prevents drawers slamming closed. Softens impact.
Self & Soft-Closing: The holy grail. Push firmly and the drawer catches itself, closing gently.