What are the different types of stair lifts?

Straight stair lifts

A straight stair lift is a chair device that travels along a fixed rail attached to your staircase steps, not the wall. “Once seated, you buckle up for safety and press a level to [move] up or down the stairs,” explains Susan Hackett, vice president of Williams Lift Company. These battery-powered chairs ensure you stay mobile even during power outages.

Straight stair lifts provide affordable mobility on simple staircases with same-day installation.

You’ll find these lifts dominate the market. “Straight stair lifts are common because most staircases are straight,” Hackett said. Priced between $3,000 and $8,000, your budget will stretch further with these models than curved versions. If you need temporary mobility help after surgery, you can even rent one for $80 to $600 monthly instead of buying.

Straight lifts use efficient mechanical systems that Rebecca Smith, marketing assistant at Stannah Stairlifts, described as “quiet, safe and needs less maintenance” than other options. You won’t need expensive custom engineering with these pre-manufactured components, giving you dependable performance at a lower cost.

Installation happens quickly as well — usually half a day or less. Mike Peck, vice president of installation at Leaf Home, says that a technician handles everything, including double-checking measurements, making length adjustments, assembling the lift, installing it on the stair treads, testing the unit and teaching the customer how to use it.

Curved stair lifts

Unlike straight models, “curved stair lifts [go] on stairs that have a turn of some kind,” Smith explained. They work well for spiral stairs, L-shaped staircases or straight stairs with multiple landings where standard stair lifts can’t provide continuous access.

Stair lift costs range from $2,000 to $15,000.

According to Hackett, curved stair lifts come in two varieties: modular systems assembled from pre-fabricated curved sections or custom-made tracks designed for your unique staircase. For custom versions, technicians capture detailed measurements using digital photography or 3D scanning technology before manufacturing begins.

Many manufacturers use dual rail systems for added flexibility. “Dual rails give stair lifts more stability on curved stairs by distributing the lift’s weight and minimizing slight lateral movement or tilting,” Smith said. This feature is especially helpful when maneuvering through tight corners or spiral configurations.

One downside, though, is that the customization process extends the cost and timeline. “Installing a curved stair lift will take around three to six weeks from the time your stairs are measured to the day it’s installed,” Smith said. Prices range from $10,000 to $15,000, with spiral staircase models at the higher end.

Outdoor stair lifts

Outdoor stair lifts help you access decks, porches and entryways. They are designed to withstand outdoor elements, according to Hackett. These models offer the same mobility features as indoor versions but with better durability.

Outdoor stair lifts require more maintenance.

Manufacturers build them with weather-resistant materials, like rust-proof aluminum rails and water-resistant covers, according to Peck. Many models have peaked rails that naturally shed leaves and snow to prevent buildup that could block the track.

Protection extends to the electrical systems as well. “All electronic components are sealed with IP65 or more,” Smith said. This specialized sealing keeps water out of motors and control systems. Some models even include heating elements to prevent freezing in cold climates.

Most outdoor lifts come with protective covers you’ll want to use between rides. Smith recommends more frequent maintenance checks than indoor models need, especially after heavy rain or snowfall. A quick monthly inspection prevents unexpected issues when you need your lift most.

Standing and perching stair lifts

“Standing and perching stair lifts are perfect for individuals who can’t sit comfortably,” Smith explained. These specialized models include enhanced safety features, such as sturdy guardrails, secure handholds and specialized safety belts designed for upright or semi-seated positions. The two variants serve slightly different needs:

• Standing lifts provide backrests and sturdy handles — allowing you to remain upright during travel.
• Perching lifts feature a tall, shallow seat or “perch” that offers stability while minimizing your hip and knee movement. You might choose a perching stair lift if you have limited joint flexibility.

These lifts also solve space constraints in older homes. “[We may use them] when a stairway is too narrow to use a standard stair lift,” Hackett noted. Standing or perching reduces how far your knees protrude forward. This design advantage helps these models fit into staircases where standard seated models might not work.

Despite their space-saving benefits, these models do have special considerations. Most require you to maintain some balance during operation. Hackett mentioned that "many dealers and some manufacturers do not supply standing/perch lifts due to liability concerns." When considering this type, consult mobility specialists to ensure it matches your needs and abilities.

Modular and reconditioned stair lifts

Modular stair lifts provide a middle ground for curved staircases. "[They’re] curved stair lifts built from pre-manufactured sections rather than custom-bent rails," Peck explained. Manufacturers create these systems using standardized components with fixed angles — typically 30, 45 and 90 degrees — that combine to follow most curved staircases.

This approach may not offer the seamless fit of a custom rail, but it significantly reduces wait times and stair lift costs. “Modular systems speed up installation by eliminating the need for custom fabrication,” Peck said. Installation is often completed in days rather than weeks required for custom curved models.

The refurbished market may open the door to more affordable options, Smith explains. Getting a reconditioned stair lift from a reputable manufacturer is an excellent way to save money and reuse, keeping functional equipment out of landfills. These units can cost up to 50% less than new models while maintaining safety standards.

Where you purchase a reconditioned stair lift matters, though. “Buying from anyone other than a professional manufacturer has the potential for an uncertain maintenance history,” warned Smith. Factory-reconditioned units often include new batteries, updated safety features and warranties comparable to new models.