The new, energetically optimized sliding bearing with hydrostatic support efficiently reduces the drive power of machines. The stress on the bearing is held hydrostatically by pressure generated within the bearing. This efficiently reduces release moments at the beginning of motion and avoids jerking start-up movements. During the movement process, a lubricant in interaction with the tribological contact surfaces ensures a constant low friction value of the bearing. Compared to inventive bearings, the energy consumption of the drive is more uniform and lower than for sliding bushes or sliding shoes. An extremely low friction value in the start-up phase results in an exact positioning accuracy in the final positions. Leakage in the bearing gap is minimized by a high viscosity pressure medium within the sealing gap. The sealing gap geometry is reduced by using a density element to minimize the leakage amount to the lowest level possible. The advantage of this new bearing technology has been demonstrated in extensive series of tests for linear and radial bearing designs. The energy optimization is achieved by minimizing or avoiding the leakage, by reducing the friction value, by improved lubrication and by building an internal relief force.