Boom Lifts vs. Scissor Lifts vs Spider Lifts: Which Is Better?

Do you work with large-scale construction projects? If so, you’ll understand the importance of choosing the right access equipment to ensure both safety and efficiency on site. With various options available, it’s important to understand the strengths of each machine.

In this blog, we’ll compare three of the most commonly used types of lifts – boom lifts, scissor lifts, and spider lifts – to help site managers make the best choice for their specific project needs. In this access equipment comparison, we’ll define each lift, and explore their key differences, benefits, and key applications.

What are Boom Lifts?

Also known as cherry pickers, boom lifts are mobile platforms that can extend vertically and horizontally. Available in both articulated and straight boom configurations, boom lifts offer excellent reach for high work areas.

Genie S65 X Boom Lift

What are Scissor Lifts?

These lifts are designed for vertical movement and are perfect for working at height in tight spaces. Scissor lifts offer a stable, secure platform, typically used for indoor projects or outdoor tasks on flat, smooth terrain.

Holland Lift HL220 E12 Scissor Lift

What are Spider Lifts?

Known for their versatility, spider lifts are compact machines that can access narrow or confined spaces. They are designed for maximum reach both upward and outward, with the ability to navigate rough and uneven terrain.

CTE Traccess 135 Spider Lift

Key Differences Between Boom Lifts, Scissor Lifts, and Spider Lifts

Working height and reach:

Boom lifts:

Boom lifts are built for both vertical and horizontal reach, with some models offering a working height of up to 70 metres. For example, our JLG 1500 AJP boom lifts for hire have an impressive 48.15-metre working height and can reach 23.55 metres horizontally.

Scissor lifts:

Primarily designed for vertical reach, our scissor lifts range from 6 metres to 37 metres, making them ideal for tasks like racking installation or maintenance in tight spaces. Our Dingli JCPT 3730 HRT hybrid MEWP scissor lifts for hire, for example, reach up to 37 meters.

Spider lifts:

Spider lifts like the Falcon FS520 C, with a maximum working height of 52 meters, offer exceptional flexibility, with the ability to extend both vertically and horizontally, making them ideal for projects that require access to challenging, restricted areas.

Falcon FS520C Spider Lift

Size and Manoeuvrability:

Boom lifts:

Boom lifts are generally large and less manoeuvrable, requiring more space for movement. However, their outreach and working height make them ideal for large outdoor tasks like steel erection or glazing.

Scissor lifts:

Scissor lifts are more compact and easier to manoeuvre in narrow or confined spaces, especially indoors. Their compact design allows them to access areas where other lifts might not fit.

Spider lifts:

Spider lifts are the most compact of the three, specifically designed for narrow access and rough terrain. They’re perfect for situations where space is tight, or ground conditions are uneven, such as in gardens or on construction sites with restricted entry points.

Terrain Compatibility:

Boom lifts:

Boom lifts are ideal for outdoor projects, especially in rough terrain, where their ability to traverse uneven ground comes in handy.

Scissor lifts:

These lifts perform best on flat, smooth surfaces. However, diesel-powered scissor lifts are more suited for outdoor jobs than electric ones, offering some capability to tackle moderate slopes.

Holland Lift HL275 D27 Scissor Lift

Spider lifts:

One of the standout features of spider lifts is their ability to handle uneven ground and tight spaces. Their lightweight, agile design makes them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, even in areas with restricted access.

Main Benefits of Each Lift Type

Boom lifts:

• High working height and impressive horizontal outreach
• Ideal for large outdoor projects like steel erection, glazing, and heavy-duty maintenance
• Stability on rough and uneven terrain
• Multiple power options available (electric, diesel, bi-fuel)

Genie S125

Scissor lifts:

• Stable, secure platform for working at height
• Perfect for vertical tasks like racking, shelving, and indoor installations
• Easy to operate and manoeuvre in confined indoor spaces
• Cost-effective for short-duration tasks

Spider lifts:

• Highly manoeuvrable and compact design, perfect for narrow or confined spaces
• Can access difficult areas with rough terrain or limited ground space
• Multiple power options available (electric, diesel, battery)
• Flexible performance for both vertical and horizontal reach

Which Lift is Best for Specific Jobs?

Boom lifts:

1. Construction and steel erection
2. Signage and billboard installation
3. Glazing and window installation
4. Facade maintenance
5. Roofing and cladding

Scissor lifts:

1. Racking and shelving installation
2. Maintenance and electrical work
3. Retail and commercial space renovations
4. Painting and decorating
5. Industrial contractors

Spider lifts:

1. Tree pruning and landscaping
2. Roof inspections
3. Window cleaning and building maintenance
4. Industrial applications
5. Event setup
6. Telecommunication and utility work

Make the Right Choice for Your Project with Hire Safe Solutions

Choosing the right lift out of boom lifts, scissor lifts, and spider lifts, depends on the specific needs of your project. For large outdoor tasks requiring significant height and horizontal reach, boom lifts are the best option. For indoor projects or tasks requiring a stable platform in tight spaces, scissor lifts are ideal. If your project requires navigating narrow access or rough terrain, spider lifts are your go-to solution, offering incredible versatility and agility.

Here at Hire Safe Solutions, we’re proud to have the largest fleet of boom lifts, scissor lifts, and spider lifts for hire in the UK and ROI. Whatever you need, our team are dedicated to helping you find the perfect equipment for your project.

Need expert advice on which lift is right for your project? Get in touch with Hire Safe Solutions today!