Boom Lift vs Scissor Lift: Which One Should You Hire?

Steven Campbell
5 days ago
4 min read

If your project involves working at height, choosing the right access equipment can make a huge difference—not just for productivity, but for safety too.

Two of the most common options are boom lifts and scissor lifts, and while they might seem similar at first glance, they’re designed for very different jobs.

So, how do you know which one is right for your site?

In this guide, we’ll break down the difference between boom lifts and scissor lifts in simple terms, helping you decide which one is the best fit for your project.

Boom Lift and Scissor Lift being used. — Boom lift and scissor lift used for different working-at-height tasks

What Is a Boom Lift?

A boom lift is a powered access platform with a hydraulic arm that lifts workers both upwards and outwards. This makes it perfect for jobs where you need to reach over obstacles or access awkward areas that aren’t directly above you.

Think of building maintenance, roofing work, or tree trimming—places where straight-up access just won’t do the job.

There are two main types of boom lift:

Articulating boom lifts, which have multiple joints and can bend around obstacles
Telescopic boom lifts, which extend in a straight line for maximum reach

Boom lifts are ideal for:

External building repairs
Roofing and gutter work
Tree surgery and landscaping
High-level electrical work
Construction sites with restricted access

What Is a Scissor Lift?

A scissor lift works a little differently. Instead of extending outwards, it raises workers straight up using a criss-cross support system underneath the platform.

The biggest advantage of a scissor lift is the platform size. There’s usually more room for multiple workers, tools, and materials, which makes it ideal for indoor work and jobs where you’re working directly overhead.

Scissor lifts are ideal for:

Warehouse maintenance
Ceiling installation
Painting and decorating
Electrical and mechanical work
Indoor construction projects

What’s the Main Difference?

Put simply:

A boom lift gives you height and reach
A scissor lift gives you height and workspace

The right choice depends on what your job actually needs.

Let’s look at the key differences.

1. Reach and Flexibility

This is where boom lifts really stand out.

Because the platform can move both vertically and horizontally, boom lifts are much better for reaching difficult areas—especially if there are obstacles like walls, machinery, or uneven ground in the way.

Scissor lifts only move straight up, so they’re best when your work area is directly above where the machine is positioned.

Best choice: Boom lift

2. Platform Size

If you need more room to work, a scissor lift usually wins.

They have larger platforms, which means more space for workers, tools, equipment, and materials. This can be a big advantage on longer jobs or tasks that require two or more people working at height.

Boom lifts tend to have smaller baskets, usually designed for one or two operators.

Best choice: Scissor lift

3. Working Height

Boom lifts are generally built for greater heights, especially telescopic models used on larger construction and maintenance projects.

Scissor lifts can still reach impressive heights, but they’re more commonly used for lower-level access compared to boom lifts.

Best choice: Boom lift

4. Indoor vs Outdoor Use

If you’re working outside on uneven or rough terrain, boom lifts are often the better option. Many models are specifically built for outdoor use and can handle more challenging site conditions.

Scissor lifts are usually best on flat, solid surfaces like warehouse floors, factories, and indoor commercial spaces.

Best choice: Depends on the environment

5. Cost of Hire

Scissor lifts are generally more affordable to hire, especially for straightforward indoor work where vertical access is all you need.

Boom lifts tend to cost more because of their greater reach, flexibility, and more advanced operating systems.

That said, hiring the cheaper option isn’t always the best value if it can’t actually do the job properly.

Best choice: Scissor lift for lower-cost access

So, Which One Should You Hire?

Choose a boom lift if:

You need to reach over obstacles
Your work area isn’t directly overhead
You’re working outdoors
You need maximum height
Access is difficult or restricted

Choose a scissor lift if:

You’re working straight above
You need more platform space
Multiple workers need access
Your site has flat, stable ground
You want a more cost-effective solution

Comparison Image for both Boom and Scissor Lifts

Need Help Choosing?

At ORD, we know that no two jobs are the same.

Whether you need a boom lift for high-level external work or a scissor lift for safe indoor access, our team can help you choose the right equipment quickly and confidently.

We offer: