What is The Difference between Threaded Standoffs and Spacers?

Threaded standoffs and spacers are both common hardware for electronics, meant to hold a set gap between two mounted parts. Even though they serve the same spacing purpose, their build and installation methods are completely different.

Threaded Standoffs

These parts come with machined threads, either inner female threads, outer male threads, or threads on both ends.

They are made as solid column parts, either round or hex-shaped, with threading built into the body.

They do two jobs at once: keep parts separated at a fixed distance, and act as a connection point to lock components together without extra loose nuts.

You can directly screw two components onto the standoff’s threads to finish assembly. Our stepped lock connecting sleeves belong to this category of custom threaded standoffs.

Spacers

Spacers are simple hollow tubes with zero threading on the inside or outside.

They only have a straight through-hole running the full length of the sleeve, available in metal, plastic, brass and other materials.

Their only job is to create space between parts. To secure the assembly, you have to feed a bolt through the spacer’s center hole and fasten it using separate nuts on both sides.

Common styles include round metal sleeves and insulating plastic hollow tubes.