The primary difference lies in how far a drawer can be pulled out and their ideal applications. Full extension allows the drawer to extend completely, providing full access to its contents, while tandem single extension extends less, making it suitable for smaller furniture items.
Understanding Drawer Extension Types
When choosing drawer slides or systems, the type of extension is a crucial factor affecting accessibility and application. The two common types mentioned are Full Extension and Tandem Single Extension.
Based on the provided reference:
- Full Extension: "is the right choice if you want easy access without any loss of storage space." This means the drawer comes out all the way, allowing you to see and reach everything inside effortlessly.
- TANDEM single extension: "is ideal for smaller items of furniture, such as a bedside table." This suggests a shorter pull-out distance compared to full extension, making it sufficient for less deep drawers or furniture where complete access isn't necessary or desired.
Key Differences Summarized
Here's a simple breakdown:
| Feature | Full Extension | TANDEM Single Extension |
|---|---|---|
| Drawer Travel | Extends fully out | Extends partially out |
| Accessibility | Easy access, no storage loss | Less access compared to full |
| Ideal Use Case | Maximizing access in various furniture | Smaller furniture (e.g., bedside tables) |
Choosing the Right Extension
Selecting between full extension and tandem single extension depends mainly on:
- Furniture Size and Type: Full extension is versatile, great for kitchen drawers, file cabinets, or deeper storage where you need to see everything. Tandem single extension is highlighted as ideal for smaller furniture pieces like bedside tables, where the drawer depth and content volume might be less.
- Required Accessibility: If you need to easily reach items at the very back of the drawer without straining or having to feel around, full extension is the clear choice. If partial access is sufficient for shallow drawers or smaller items, single extension can be adequate.
- Space Considerations: While full extension maximizes internal drawer access, consider the external space needed for the drawer to open fully. Single extension requires less pull-out space in front of the furniture.
In summary, full extension offers complete accessibility suitable for various storage needs, ensuring "no loss of storage space" usability, whereas tandem single extension is a more limited travel option specifically noted as ideal for "smaller items of furniture, such as a bedside table".
