Last Updated: October 30, 2026
When living with a disability or declining mobility, the right equipment can help you keep up with your normal routine. However, selecting the best equipment type can be easier said than done. Stair lifts and chair lifts have similar names, but they accommodate different levels of need. William Lift Company provides mobility equipment to homeowners throughout New Jersey. Here, we explain the difference between stair lifts and chair lifts to help you make an informed selection.
Key Takeaways
- Although the terms “stair lift” and “chair lift” are often confused, the two devices have different designs to fulfill different functions.
- Stair lifts feature a chair that moves alongside your stairs on a track. They are less-invasive options for people who can still walk with assistance.
- Chair lifts are platforms that move vertically, like small elevators. They provide mobility to wheelchair users living at home.
- William Lift Company performs free home assessments to help New Jersey homeowners understand their options and make the best selection.
Stair Lift vs. Chair Lift: What’s the Difference?
Stair lifts and chair lifts have similar-sounding names, and they serve similar accessibility purposes. However, their different designs make them best suited for different applications and levels of need. Here, we cover what you need to know about each.
Stair Lifts
A stair lift features a seat, armrests, and footrest mounted on a motorized track. The track runs along your staircase, moving the stair lift up and down at an angle. A seatbelt holds you in place while you ride. Factors to consider before installation include:
- Application: Stair lifts are best for individuals who can walk with assistance, such as a walker or cane, but who have difficulty with stairs.
- Installation: Stair lifts have a compact footprint and attach to the stairs themselves, making them a less invasive addition to your home.
- Maintenance: Stair lifts need annual maintenance checks and repairs. They should also have their batteries replaced every three to four years.
Because stair lifts are more affordable and less invasive, they are also good options for temporary installations. Rental lifts are available for short-term needs when you don’t expect to use the equipment for more than a few months.
Chair Lifts
A chair lift features a platform that moves vertically between floors, like a small elevator. The platform is large enough to accommodate a wheelchair and surrounded by barriers to prevent rolling off while in motion. Consider the following details before installing:
- Application: Chair lifts are best for wheelchair users and can transport the person with their wheelchair at the same time.
- Installation: Chair lifts require at least five square feet of open space to install, plus extra space for the approach and exit ramps.
- Maintenance: Chair lifts require comprehensive service inspections to keep their mechanical systems working effectively.
Chair lifts are more expensive and difficult to install, but the mobility they provide is invaluable. Chair lifts let wheelchair users access the whole home, eliminating the need to move while helping them safely stick to their normal routines.
Find the Right Mobility Equipment Near You in New Jersey
If you aren’t sure which type of accessibility equipment is right for your needs, Williams Lift Company can help. We provide free in-home assessments to help determine the right solution for your situation. We also perform professional installations to ensure that your equipment is correctly installed and safe to use. Contact us today to learn more about stair lifts vs. chair lifts or to request a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stair Lifts and Chair Lifts
Is a chair lift the same thing as a stair lift?
While they fill a similar function, chair lifts and stair lifts are not the same. Chair lifts, also called platform lifts, consist of enclosed platforms that move vertically between floors, like an elevator. Stair lifts feature seats mounted on tracks that run along a staircase.
Which device is best for wheelchair users, a stair lift or a chair lift?
A chair or platform lift is best for wheelchair users. It transports the person with their wheelchair, eliminating the need to transfer out of the wheelchair.
Which device is best for people who can walk with assistance, a stair lift or a chair lift?
A stair lift is best for individuals who can walk with a mobility aid. They require less space for installation and are usually less expensive, making them a cost-effective option for seniors living at home who don’t need a full chair lift.
When does renting a stair lift or a chair lift make more sense than buying?
Renting a chair lift or stair lift makes sense when your need is only temporary. For example, you might need a lift for someone who is recovering from an injury and expects to get better. You may also rent a lift if you are taking care of an elderly family member for a few months, but not for the long term.