When it comes to increasing accessibility and convenience in your home or commercial property, both platform lifts and elevators are highly effective solutions that enable you to enjoy your space to the fullest. From meeting accessibility mandates for commercial structures to empowering homeowners to age in place with confidence, at RAM Elevators + Lifts, we know just how important it is for North Americans to have access to solutions they can trust.
With over 30 years of industry-leading experience, we’re proud to offer high-quality lifts and elevators built with the RAM advantage to enhance access and mobility. Below, we’ll provide a brief breakdown of the core difference between a lift and an elevator, as well as what solution may work best for your purposes. Read on to learn more!
Function and Uses
Lifts
Platform lifts, also known as wheelchair lifts or vertical platform lifts (VPLs), are predominately designed to provide reliable multi-level access for individuals with mobility challenges. VPLs are intended for short vertical travels like navigating a few steps or a single-story rise. This makes lifts ideal for use in residential settings, and smaller commercial/public spaces that need to adhere to ADA regulations. Lifts are particularly useful in buildings with limited space or other factors that make the installation of a full elevator system impractical. Our Vertical Platform Lift (VPL), for example, is designed for both indoor and outdoor applications, offering reliable and safe accessibility solutions.
Elevators
Elevators, on the other hand, are well known for their ability to transport multiple passengers (lifts accommodate a lower weight and thus lower passenger load), goods, and equipment between multiple floors. Like lifts, they are suitable for both residential and commercial applications but are more common in multi-story buildings that benefit from efficient and frequent vertical transportation. Multi-residential buildings, essential commercial spaces, and larger residential spaces with a layout that may make accessing higher levels difficult all benefit from the convenience and comfort afforded by an elevator. Our Crystal series, for example, highlights the seamless blend of luxury and functionality offered by elevators and showcases just how versatile their application can be in almost any space.
Design and Construction
Lifts
Platform lifts typically involve an open or enclosed platform that rises vertically along a fixed track. The design of a lift is focused on functionality and ease of use, and typically require less space for installation, which makes them ideal for spaces that may not be able to accommodate a full shaft or extensive structural revisions for installation. Our Vertical Platform Lift (VPL) models, for example, offer an industry-leading pitless design that can be installed with minimal disruption and provide a cost-effective solution for improving accessibility.
Elevators
Elevators consist of a car (or cabin) enclosed within a shaft and pulled upwards and downwards via a counterweight system, hydraulic piston, or traction system. While lifts may have an open design, elevators are fully enclosed and require more space to be installed. RAM is pleased to offer a revolutionary, machine-room-less (MRL) design for both our Stratus and Crystal models, as well as countless ways to customize to make sure your home or commercial elevator seamlessly integrates with your unique space.
Capacity and Speed
Platform lifts are generally designed to carry one wheelchair user and a companion up to a weight load of approximately 500-1000 lbs. Lifts operate at a slower speed, typically around 10-15 ft per minute, which makes them ideal for shorter ranges as opposed to a longer travel distance, which would be much less efficient.
Elevators are suitable for multiple passengers (note: residential elevators have lower weight capacities than commercial models) and operate at a much faster speed than their lift counterparts. Elevators typically move at about 100-500 ft per minute, which makes them highly efficient for multi-floor buildings where accessibility, specifically speed of access, are relevant. The RAM Crystal Elevator, for instance, provides a smooth and swift ride, enhancing user experience while maintaining high standards of safety and reliability.
Cost and Installation
Platform lifts are generally less expensive to purchase and install compared to elevators, making them an attractive option for residential use and small commercial applications where elevator installation may not be feasible. Lifts are also quick to install (often completed within a number of days), reducing inconvenient downtime where possible. RAM’s Vertical Platform Lift (VPL) models exemplify this affordability and ease of installation, offering a practical solution for those needing quick and effective accessibility improvements.
Elevators require a higher cost investment but offer unparalleled accessibility and convenience for spaces that require faster service between multiple floors. Since Elevators require a shaft, they often necessitate structural alterations for retrofits, which can lead to a longer installation time depending on your unique layout and needs. RAM’s pitless MLR design, however, helps to reduce installation time and ensures that your space is back up and running better than ever before as quickly as possible!
Maintenance and Operation
Both lifts and elevators require routine maintenance to perform as safely and efficiently as possible. Lift maintenance, however, is generally less intensive, thanks to their simplified design and controls compared to elevators. RAM’s Trus-T-Lift™ series, for example, is designed with user-friendly features and built to withstand rigorous use, minimizing downtime and maintenance efforts.
Elevators, especially in a commercial environment, have specific maintenance and inspection requirements that reflect the additional risks associated with rising to higher levels than a standard VPL. As such, Elevators offer advanced operational features such as automated controls, destination dispatch systems, and emergency communication systems, enhancing user convenience and safety. RAM’s elevator models are built with the highest safety standards and practices in mind and with routine, annual maintenance, you can rest assured that your unit is designed to stand the test of time.
Find Your Perfect Solution with RAM
Ultimately, making the choice between platform lifts and elevators depends on various factors, including your specific needs, budget, space availability, and intended use. Platform lifts like RAM’s VPL are ideal for short vertical travels and budget-conscious installations, while elevators like the RAM Crystal Elevator are better suited for multi-story buildings with higher traffic demands.
No matter what choice works best for you, partnering with RAM means knowing you’ll never have to compromise on quality or performance. Learn more about our residential and commercial products by contacting our team today!