Follow these three steps:
Dry push – Gently slide the sash; it should feel smooth, without jamming or noise.
Stop test – Release the sash at any position; it should stay still and not auto‑slide to one side.
Seal check – Close the window and hold a lit lighter near the gap; no flame flicker means good airtightness.
Also, pour a small amount of water into the lower track to verify that the drainage holes work properly.
The differences come from four key aspects:
Profile – Virgin aluminum vs. recycled aluminum; 1.4mm vs. 2.0mm wall thickness
Thermal break – PA66 nylon vs. PVC plastic
Glass – Basic clear glass vs. tempered Low‑E insulated glass
Hardware & craftsmanship – Branded pulleys / multi‑point locks vs. unbranded parts; glue‑injected corners vs. simple screwing
Choosing the cheapest option often leads to sliding jams, air leakage, water seepage, and even safety hazards after only one year. Always choose a brand that offers a warranty (≥5 years) and provides official test reports.