How is static friction different from sliding friction? 1.When we try to move a surface, sliding friction comes into action. Static friction comes into play when objects are moving over each other. 2.Sliding friction comes into play when object stops moving and static friction comes into play when we move the object. 3.Sliding friction comes into play when object slides over another object. On the other hand, static friction comes into play when we try to move the object which is at rest. 4.Sliding friction is larger than static friction.