Drawer Slides: Sizes, Types and Load Ratings
5 min read · Updated 2026-08
Drawer slides are specified by three things: type, length, and load rating. Length is the one most commonly ordered wrong, because it is set by the cabinet depth rather than the drawer.
The main types
| Type | Extension | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ball-bearing telescopic | Full | The general-purpose choice; visible at the drawer side |
| Undermount | Full | Hidden below the drawer for a clean look; needs precise drawer sizing |
| Concealed / soft-close | Full | Hidden with integrated damper; most common in modern kitchens |
| Roller (bottom-mount) | Partial (~75%) | Cheapest; the back of the drawer stays inaccessible |
Measuring the length correctly
Slide length is governed by the internal depth of the cabinet, not the drawer box you already have.
Measure from the inside face of the back panel to the front edge of the carcass, then choose the largest standard slide that fits without fouling the back. Standard lengths step in 50 mm increments — 250, 300, 350, 400, 450, 500, 550 and 600 mm.
If your measurement falls between two sizes, go down. A slide that is too long will not let the drawer close flush.
Load rating: be honest about the contents
Ratings are per pair, and the published figure assumes an evenly distributed load.
| Rating | Suitable for |
|---|---|
| 20–25 kg | Cutlery, clothing, light storage |
| 30–35 kg | Crockery, pantry drawers, general kitchen use |
| 45 kg+ | Pot drawers, tool storage, appliance pull-outs |
Common mistakes
- Ordering by drawer depth instead of cabinet depth.
- Under-rating pot drawers — a stacked set of pans is heavier than people estimate.
- Mixing brands within one cabinet run, which shows up as uneven drawer fronts.
- Forgetting the side clearance an undermount slide requires; the drawer box must be sized precisely.
Frequently asked
What length drawer slide do I need for a 450 mm cabinet?
A 450 mm cabinet depth normally takes a 400 mm slide, since you must allow for the back panel and front clearance. Always measure the actual internal depth before ordering.
Are undermount slides better than side-mounted ones?
They look cleaner because nothing is visible from the side, and they usually include soft-close. They also demand accurate drawer box dimensions, so side-mounted ball-bearing slides are more forgiving for on-site carpentry.
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