Drawer Systems – What is the difference between a Drawer Slide and a Runner?

By: Gareth Jones

A lot is made of the question ‘what is the difference between a slider and runner?’ but we find that they basically offer the same function – letting a drawer move in and out – and therefore you can use either name for anything that relates to this action.

As both a slide and a runner perform the same function, the smooth opening and closing of a drawer, we, and most companies on the internet as well, choose to focus on the phrase ‘Drawer Slide’ when describing our products.

But what is the difference?

Well to break it down factually, a ‘slide’ is generally the term given to a product that is fixed to the side of the drawer box and also the carcass of the unit, and the movement in and out is on ball bearings, making it smooth and noiseless.  This type of product is usually found in more heavy duty drawers such as office furniture and tool drawers etc, as they can take very large weights.
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When the word ‘runner’ is used it generally related to a product that is fixed to the bottom edge of the drawer box and also the carcass, and then runs in and out using small roller bearings, offering a smooth opening action.  These type of products are generally found in kitchen and bedroom drawers.
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