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How to Choose the Best Drawer Slides for the Job (Locking vs Non-Locking)

Kate Xu 0 comments

When it comes to choosing the right drawer slides, there’s technically no single “right” or “wrong” option — but there are key differences that can make one type better suited for your project than another. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of both locking and non-locking drawer slides will help you make the best choice for your needs.

3 Key Factors to Consider

When selecting drawer slides, keep these three factors in mind:

  1. Extension required – How far do you need the drawer to extend?

  2. Weight capacity – How much load does the drawer need to support?

  3. Application – Where and how will the slides be used?

The first two are fairly straightforward, but your application often determines whether locking or non-locking slides are the better option.

When to Choose Locking Drawer Slides

Locking drawer slides are ideal for applications where stability and safety are essential — especially on uneven or mobile surfaces. These slides allow you to lock the drawer in place (either open or closed), preventing unwanted movement.

Common uses include:

  • Fridge slides

  • Generator slides

  • Battery slides

  • BBQ slides

  • Slide-out kitchens

The ability to lock out the slide is particularly useful when you’re outdoors, camping, or working in environments that aren’t perfectly level.

When to Choose Non-Locking Drawer Slides

Non-locking drawer slides are generally used in setups that are stationary and level, or in applications where access to the locking levers would be difficult or blocked by a drawer front.

They’re perfect for:

  • Indoor cabinetry

  • Tool drawers

  • Office or storage applications

Since they don’t include a lock-out mechanism, they’re simpler to operate and often more cost-effective.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between locking and non-locking drawer slides ultimately depends on how and where the slides will be used. If you need stability and security in motion, go for locking slides. If you’re after simplicity and ease of use in a fixed setting, non-locking slides will do the job perfectly.

For more guidance or to explore high-quality drawer slide options, visit Duraslide— your trusted source for durable, reliable sliding hardware.