Scissor Lift vs. Boom Lift: Which Aerial Lift Do You Need?

Scissor lifts: straight up, stable platform

A scissor lift raises a large platform vertically. You get more deck space, more weight capacity for tools and materials, and a stable work area — ideal for siding, painting, electrical work, warehouse tasks, and anything directly overhead.

The tradeoff: you must position the machine directly under the work, and most electric scissor lifts need firm, level ground.

Boom lifts: up and over obstacles

An articulating boom lift reaches up, out, and over — around trees, over rooftops, past obstacles. If the work area isn't directly accessible from below, a boom lift is usually the answer.

Platforms are smaller and capacity is lower, so plan your trips and materials accordingly.

Quick decision guide

Working directly overhead on flat ground with materials? Scissor lift. Reaching over something, working at odd angles, or on rough terrain? Boom lift. Still not sure? Tell us the job and the site conditions and we'll recommend one.