Telescopic Channel vs Quadro Channel: Which One Should You Choose?
When planning drawers for your kitchen, wardrobe, or any modular furniture, you’ll often come across two popular drawer systems: Telescopic vs Quadro channel. While both serve the same purpose — allowing drawers to slide in and out smoothly — they differ significantly in design, functionality, load capacity, and cost.
If you're wondering whether to go for a telescopic drawer channel or invest in a quadro drawer channel, this blog will help you compare them side-by-side. Whether you're a homeowner, designer, or contractor, you’ll find the right match for your project.
 Quick Comparison Table
Feature | Telescopic Channel | Quadro Channel |
Extension Type | Partial or full extension | Partial and full extension variants |
Load Capacity | 30–45 kg | Up to 35-50 kg |
Adjustment | Manual alignment | 1D–5D tool-less precision alignment |
Closing Mechanism | Available in normal and soft-close variants | All quadro channels include integrated soft close |
Build & Bearings | Visible steel profiles with ball bearings | Concealed steel ball bearings under the drawer |
Size Availability | 8″ to 36″ | 12″ to 22″ |
Price Range | ₹200–₹700 (normal close), ₹500–₹900 (soft close) | ₹800–₹1,500+ |
Ideal Applications | Kitchens, wardrobes, budget or industrial drawers | High-end wooden drawers, wardrobes, modular furniture |
What Is a Telescopic Channel?
A telescopic channel is a side-mounted, ball-bearing slide commonly used in modular cabinetry. It can be partially or fully extended and is visible when the drawer opens. It comes in two main types:
- Normal-close – standard closure
- Soft-close – dampened, smooth finish with automatic closing
Key Features:
- Load capacity: typically 30–45 kg
- Sizes: 8 inches to 36 inches
- Applications: modular kitchens, wardrobes, toolboxes, and office drawers
- Build: Steel with ball bearings for smooth glide
- Available in Hettich, Hafele, Safezone, Royal Art, Ozone, and more
Key Feature Comparisons
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Extension & Alignment
- Telescopic: Offers partial or full extension with basic alignment
- Quadro: Precision extension with 1D to 5D tool-free alignment
Load Capacity & Stability
- Telescopic: Good for general use (30–45 kg)
- Quadro: Excellent stability even under heavy drawers (35-50 kg)
Soft Close
- Telescopic: Optional; soft-close costs more than normal-close
- Quadro: All models include integrated silent system for soft-close
Size Flexibility
- Telescopic: Offers a wide range of sizes from 8″ to 36″
- Quadro: Usually limited to 12″ to 22″, suitable for most residential applications
Price Comparison
- Telescopic (Normal): ₹200–₹700/pair
- Telescopic (Soft-close): ₹800–₹1,200/pair
- Quadro: ₹800–₹1,500+/pair depending on model and features
💡Quadro generally costs more than soft-close telescopic channels, but offers premium features and a concealed look.
Decision Guide: Which One to Choose?
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User Scenario | Recommended Channel |
Modular kitchen with premium finish | Quadro channel |
Industrial or office drawer storage | Telescopic channel |
Low-budget kitchen or rental flat | Telescopic (normal-close) |
Silent wardrobe drawers or soft-touch cabinetry | Quadro channel |
Need long-length channels | Telescopic (up to 36") |
Want tool-less drawer alignment | Quadro (1D to 5D) |
Require budget + soft-close combination | Soft-close telescopic channel |
FAQs: Telescopic vs Quadro Channel
Q1. What are the standard sizes for telescopic drawer channels?
Telescopic channels are available from 8″ to 36″, making them suitable for small and large drawers, from kitchen organizers to heavy-duty storage units.
Q2. Do all quadro channels come with soft close?
Yes. All branded quadro drawer systems come with built-in Silent System, offering soft-close as a default feature — no upgrade needed.
Q3. Are soft-close telescopic channels more expensive than normal ones?
Yes. On average, soft-close versions are 30–60% pricier than normal-close telescopic channels, depending on brand and size.
 Q4. Can telescopic channels be used in premium wardrobes or kitchens?
Yes, especially soft-close telescopic channels, which offer smooth operation and are suitable for high-use areas. They may not be as quiet or concealed as quadro channels but are more cost-effective.
Q5. Which drawer channel is better for high-load applications?
Quadro channels offer better stability and controlled movement under moderate to heavy loads, but for extremely heavy-duty use, specialized telescopic channels with higher load ratings (up to 100 kg) are more appropriate.
Which One Wins?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It all depends on your project needs:
- Choose telescopic drawer channels for budget builds, industrial drawers, or where size flexibility is needed.
- Opt for quadro channels when you want concealed aesthetics, soft-close functionality, and precise drawer alignment.
👉 Browse both options today at That Hardware Store — and find the perfect fit for your furniture build.