Both scissor lifts and boom lifts get workers to height — but they are built for different tasks. Choosing the wrong type means either overpaying for capacity you don't need, or bringing a machine that can't reach your work position.
When to Use a Scissor Lift
Scissor lifts work on a vertical pantograph mechanism. They go straight up. This makes them ideal for:
- Indoor maintenance and fit-out — lighting, HVAC, sprinklers, ceiling tiles in warehouses and commercial buildings
- Large platform needs — multiple workers and tools on one lift
- Frequent repositioning — scissor lifts drive easily on flat hard floors at ground level
- Maximum working height up to 14m — beyond this, scissor lifts aren't available
The critical limitation: scissor lifts can only reach directly above where the machine is parked. If there's an obstacle — a wall, a machine, structural element — between you and your work point, a scissor lift can't reach around it.
When to Use a Boom Lift
Boom lifts add horizontal reach. An articulating boom can angle its arm to reach over and around obstacles. A telescopic boom extends straight for maximum outreach on open sites.
Use a boom lift when:
Key Comparison
| Factor | Scissor Lift | Boom Lift |
|---|---|---|
| Max working height | 14m | 46m |
| Platform capacity | 450kg (2–3 people) | 230–300kg (1–2 people) |
| Floor space needed | Large (platform moves vertically) | Small footprint, wide reach |
| Horizontal reach | Zero (directly above machine) | Up to 15m+ |
| Indoor suitability | Excellent (electric models) | Good (electric articulating models) |
| Daily rental rate | Lower | Higher |
The Practical Rule
If your work is within 14m and directly above a clear floor area, a scissor lift is more cost-effective. If you need to reach high or reach around obstacles, choose a boom lift.
Still unsure? Call SkyServices at +994 50 553 02 43 and describe your job. We'll recommend the right machine.