Scissor Lifts vs Boom Lifts

Choosing the right forklift is an important decision. It’s not just about picking the cheapest option or the best-looking machine. You need to find a forklift that will do the job you need it to do while also meeting your budget and being easy to operate.

That may seem like a lot to ask from one piece of equipment, but many different types of forklifts are available on the market today. Some are designed for indoor use, while others are better suited for outdoor job sites. Some can lift heavy loads at great heights, while others are better suited for moving lighter loads over shorter distances.

So, what type of forklift should you buy from a forklift dealer? Which forklift is right for my needs?’

To answer your questions, we’ll examine in depth two of the most common types of electric forklifts—scissor lifts and boom lifts—so that you can decide which one best suits your needs.

Scissor Lifts

The scissor lift is a forklift with two long metal beams on either side of the machine. These beams are connected to a central point in the middle of the lift, which helps to stabilize the load while it’s being lifted or transported. The beams also have a joint at their top and bottom ends, allowing them to move up and down as needed. The driver controls this movement using a joystick-style control panel near his/her seat.

Scissor lifts are very versatile because they can lift from both sides and lower to the ground without having to move anything around. However, there are some drawbacks to using scissor lifts for every job. For example, since scissor lifts are wider than boom lifts and have only one mast (the part that holds up your load), they may be difficult to fit through narrow spaces.

Boom Lifts

The boom lift is a forklift with an extendable boom, which allows operators to reach higher heights. Hydraulic cylinders extend the boom and can be moved in any direction.

Boom lifts are ideal for warehouses, construction sites, and other areas requiring heavy lifting. They can also be used for general-purpose tasks such as painting and cleaning.

Boom lifts are typically used indoors because they’re less stable than scissor lifts when parked on uneven surfaces. Because of their height, they’re also more prone to tipping over if not operated properly. A scissor lift may be a better option if you’re looking for a forklift that can handle outdoor conditions.

Differences between Scissor Lifts vs. Boom Lifts

1. Movement:
   • Scissor Lifts: Move only vertically.
   • Boom Lifts: Can move both vertically and horizontally.
2. Reach:
   • Scissor Lifts: Typically reach heights up to 60 feet.
   • Boom Lifts: Can reach heights up to 210 feet or more, depending on the type.
3. Platform Size:
   • Scissor Lifts: Have larger platforms that can accommodate multiple workers and materials.
   • Boom Lifts: Have smaller platforms or buckets, usually designed for one or two workers.
4. Maneuverability:
   • Scissor Lifts: Limited to vertical movement, making them less maneuverable.
   • Boom Lifts: Highly maneuverable with the ability to extend and rotate.

Pros and Cons

Scissor Lifts:

Pros:

• Larger platforms with higher weight capacities allow multiple workers and materials.
• Generally, it is less expensive to rent or purchase than boom lifts.
• Ideal for tasks that require stable, vertical elevation.

Cons:

• Limited to vertical movement, which can be restrictive for certain tasks.
• Lower maximum height compared to boom lifts.

Boom Lifts:

Pros:

• Vertically and horizontally, greater reach makes them versatile for various tasks.
• Highly maneuverable, with some models capable of rotating 360 degrees.
• Suitable for accessing hard-to-reach areas and working around obstacles.

Cons:

• Smaller platforms limit the number of workers and materials that can be carried.
• Typically, it is more expensive to rent or purchase than scissor lifts.

The Final Word

When you’re looking to purchase a lift from a forklift dealer, there are some important factors to consider. One of the first things you should consider is whether you need a scissor lift or a boom lift. Both types of forklifts have their unique features and benefits. However, certain circumstances exist when one type of equipment may be better suited for your project.