Easy-Close vs. Self-Close Drawer Slides: What’s the Difference?

A telescopic slide’s primary function is movement. But some applications need an extra feature.

Two of the most popular are self-close and Easy-Close. They seem similar–but are they?

Let’s find out.

Self-Close

A self-close slide closes a drawer with a spring-action mechanism. A spring activates when the drawer is about an inch of closed.

A self-close slide closes a drawer with a spring-action mechanism.

A self-close slide has a smaller mechanism than an Easy-Close. In the past, this smaller mechanism has meant the self-close can come in shorter lengths than Easy-Close.

Presently, that gap is narrow. A self-close slide can come in at as little as 12 in. An Easy-Close slide can come in at 14 in.

The Accuride 3832ESC is a popular light-duty and self-closing slide.

Unlike Easy-Close, a self-close mechanism doesn’t have a damper. This means a self-close slide is more resistant to high and low temperatures–ideal for domestic appliances like refrigerators. Self-close slides are also typically less expensive than their Easy-Close counterparts, albeit with a closing action that is a little more abrupt.

Easy-Close

An Easy-Close slide has a spring-activated and damper mechanism. This pulls the drawer shut softly and silently.

An Easy-Close (or “soft-close”) slide also has a spring (like the self-close), but includes a cylinder damper component. This pulls the drawer shut softly and silently over the last 2 in. of travel.

The Accuride 3634EC is a popular medium-duty and Easy-Close slide.

Easy-Close slides are ideal for sound-sensitive environments, such as hospitals, offices, and high-end retail spaces. They are also ideal for the storage of delicate objects, such as in archives. Cabinet-makers often use Easy-Close slides for child-friendly drawers.

Which is Better for You?

A self-close slide is ideal for:

• Domestic appliances
• Small drawers
• Mobile carts
• RVs

An Easy-Close slide is ideal for:

• Archives
• Kitchens
• Offices

You can browse Accuride’s lineup of premium self-close and Easy-close slides via our Online Store. If you’re interested in a custom or mass-market self-close/Easy-Close solutions, visit our OEM Direct Page for information on Accuride’s services and contact details.