When people start researching accessibility solutions for their home or building, both elevators and home lifts (also known as Vertical Platform Lifts, or VPLs) are strong contenders for safeguarding mobility and access. While both move occupants between different levels of the home, their core designs make them best suited for different kinds of spaces and mobility needs. Understanding the distinction can help homeowners and dealers determine which solution makes the most sense for a particular property.
At RAM Elevators + Lifts, we’re here to help you find the right fit for every space. Learn more below.
What Is a Residential Elevator?
Residential elevators are fully enclosed lift systems designed to move passengers between dedicated floors (as opposed to smaller between-level transitions) in the home. Just like their commercial counterparts, residential units travel within a hoistway. Modern systems are far more compact than you might expect, and best of all, RAM’s signature “Machine Room Less” (MRL) design means you don’t have to worry about giving up more space for mobility.
Typical features include:
- Enclosed elevator cab
- Automatic doors or sliding gates
- Smooth traction drive systems
- Interior finish options that match the home
Models like our Crystal Residential Elevator and the more compact Stratus Residential Elevator are designed to provide reliable vertical access while fitting comfortably into residential layouts.
What Is a Lift (Vertical Platform Lift)?
Lifts, often called vertical platform lifts (VPLs), are designed primarily for accessibility rather than full-floor transportation. Instead of the fully enclosed cab you’d find on an elevator, VPLS allow a user to sit or stand on an open platform that travels vertically between short distances. VPLs are a great, space-conscious solution for areas of the home that may have variances between levels, but don’t require the same amount of height that an elevator would clear. Common areas for installation include entryways, decks, garages, patios (our Flex Lift model is perfect indoors or outdoors), and other areas with small elevation changes.
Elevators vs Lifts: Key Differences
While both systems provide vertical access, their designs and intended uses differ. Below is your cheat sheet to knowing which to choose:
Space Requirements
Residential elevators typically require a hoistway and an integrated rail system inside the home. While modern designs are more compact than older models, they still require more space than lifts.
Vertical platform lifts operate within a much smaller footprint and are ideal for tight installation areas or smaller footprint homes.
Travel Distance
Elevators are designed to move between full floors, often travelling multiple storeys within a home.
VPLs usually travel shorter vertical distances, such as a raised porch, garage entry, or split-level landing.
Installation Complexity
Elevator installations often require more planning during construction or renovation (but not as much as you might think!).
Lifts are generally simpler to install and can be added to existing structures with fewer modifications.
A residential elevator is often the best choice when:
- A home has multiple storeys
- Daily movement between floors is required
- Homeowners want a fully integrated accessibility solution
A vertical platform lift is ideal when:
- Only a few feet of elevation need to be overcome
- Accessibility is required at an entrance or garage
- Installation space is limited
Making Accessibility Work for Your Home
At RAM Elevators & Lifts, our residential elevators and vertical platform lifts feature all-electric systems that eliminate hydraulic fluid, delivering smooth, dependable operation. Designed and manufactured right there in Canada and installed by our trusted network of dealers, our products are made with the highest quality and experience of the end user in mind.
Discover the benefits of trusting RAM by contacting our team today!