Best Stair Lifts 2025: We Rode Each Brand—See Which Models Made Our List
We tested the best stairlifts on the market. Our top pick is the Bruno for its quiet and smooth ride.
- The Bruno stair lift is our top pick because it has a smooth and quiet ride.
- The stair lifts on this list range from $3,000–$15,000.
- Stair lifts can help make your multistory home more accessible and safe.
Our mission at NCOA is to support everyone’s right to age well. We take the time to research, test, and recommend products that can help you lead a healthier life. We’ve spent hundreds of hours researching and testing stair lifts to give you the most accurate product reviews. To find the best stair lifts, we:
- Consulted with mobility specialists including gerontologists, physical therapists, and primary care doctors for guidance on choosing the best stair lift
- Put more than 10 models through a series of 17 different tests at several different stair lift showrooms
- Mystery-shopped more than seven brands
- Surveyed more than 500 older adults on their experience using a mobility product like a stair lift
- Interviewed experts on the importance of mobility, independence, and aging in place for older adults
- Read thousands of verified customer reviews
Read more about our mobility products review methodology.
Bruno: Best Overall
- Slimmest rail
- Smoothest and quietest ride
- High weight capacity
Lifeway: Best Stair Lift Dealer
- Free in-home or virtual consultations
- Provides additional parts and labor warranties
- Offers budget-friendly choices, including refurbished and rental stair lifts
Most of us want to stay in our homes for as long as possible while we grow older (also known as “aging in place”). But mobility limitations can make some home features, such as stairs, a challenge. If you want to age in place but find your multistory home has become difficult to navigate, a stair lift could be a good choice. Stair lifts use a motorized chair to transfer you from one story of your home to another, reducing the risk of a fall on the stairs.
In our best stair lifts review, we highlight the top brands and why we recommend each one. Learn more about stair lifts, their benefits and costs, and how to find the right stair lift for your home.
Best stair lifts in 2025
- Bruno: Best Overall
- Stannah: Easiest to Use
- Harmar: Most Comfortable
- Lifeway Mobility: Best Stair Lift Dealer
Comparing the best stair lifts
| Comparison Features | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Score (out of 10) | 9.9 |
9.8 |
9.7 |
9.7 |
| Best for | Best Overall |
Easiest to Use |
Most Comfortable |
Best Stair Lift Dealer |
| Standout feature | Slimmest rail |
Accessible seat belt |
Ergonomic seat |
Access to multiple brands |
| Weight capacity (pounds) | 400+ |
350 |
400+ |
Varies |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime |
2-year |
Limited lifetime |
Varies |
| Financing | No |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Feeling sticker shock? Try this tip to save money on stair lifts
If you’re worried a stair lift is out of your budget, consider renting or buying used. Some companies (like Lifeway Mobility) rent stair lifts or sell used models, which could save you thousands.
What we look for in the best stair lifts
We looked for the following features when choosing the best stair lifts:
Accessibility
Stair lifts are designed to enhance your mobility. So they should be easy to access for a wide range of people. We looked for accessible features like automatic folding footrests, power-swivel chairs, and seat belts you can buckle with one hand.
Comfort
Stair lifts should be comfortable, since you may be using them daily. We looked for comfort features like lower-back support, extra cushioning, and ergonomic design.
Ease of use
Similar to accessibility, a stair lift should be easier to use. We paid close attention to how easy it was to sit down, buckle the seat belt, and maneuver the chair.
Bruno: Best Stair Lift Overall
We chose Bruno as our Best Stair Lift Overall because it offered the quietest and smoothest ride. Bruno has a wide range of models, including indoor and outdoor lifts, as well as curved and straight, so you can choose the right lift for your unique home and needs.
- Slim rail makes the Bruno a good option for narrow stairs
- Indoor and outdoor lifts available
- Weight capacity upgrades available
- Standout feature: Slimmest rail
- Where to buy: Local dealers
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs+
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
- Used models available: No
- Rental options: Yes
Why we chose Bruno as the Best Stair Lift Overall
We chose Bruno as the Best Stair Lift Overall because we love its smooth and quiet ride. We believe it’s a great choice for someone who wants a more discreet stair lift for their home (it has the slimmest rail in the industry). Bruno also earned top marks by offering a wide range of stair lift options. With its high weight capacity, range of local dealers, and user-friendly controls, Bruno’s stair lift options can suit most people and homes.
Bruno pros and cons
Pros
- Slimmest rail
- Quietest ride
- Indoor and outdoor options
- High weight capacity
Cons
- Not as comfortable as the Harmar
- No financing or buyback program
Our testing experience with Bruno Stair Lifts
We tested Bruno’s popular Elan and the Elite stair lift models (both curved and straight models). The Elan is Bruno’s more basic stair lift model, although it still has key features such as a wireless remote, safety sensors, and a narrow design. The Elite offers these same features, along with additional options, such as a power swivel and a grippy footrest. Our testers consistently praised Bruno for being smooth and quiet. “The ride is very smooth and there’s almost no sound,” one tester said about the Bruno Elite Curved Stair Lift. But whether it was the Elite or Elan in a curved or straight model, testers found the same thing—Bruno stair lifts were consistently the smoothest and quietest.
“The Elite Curved was the smoothest curved stair lift I tried and the Elan Straight was the smoothest straight stair lift—both from Bruno,” one tester said. “I think Brunos in general make the least amount of sound, and I’d say the Bruno Elan Straight makes the least amount overall.” Testers said this is likely due to the brand’s unique design, which features enclosed gear shifts on the tracks. Other brands have exposed gears, making them louder.
Our testers also found the Bruno models to be very user-friendly. “The control on the stair lift is a simple, large switch you push in the direction you want to travel,” one tester said. “Very easy to use, offers virtually no resistance. It basically requires the same strength you’d need to push a TV button remote.”
And when our testers stood up, they liked how smoothly the swivel feature worked. But if you have dexterity issues, opt for a power swivel option (available in both the Elan and Elite) rather than manual. “The power swivel would be helpful to have more control over where you stop, which could be useful for those with arthritis or mobility issues,” one tester said. The power swivel feature will cost extra, sometimes up to $1,000 more depending on the model you choose.
The Bruno customer experience
Bruno works with dealers all over the world to distribute their stair lifts. For specific price quotes and financing options, speak with your local dealer. You can visit a local dealer to see the Bruno lift options and, in some cases, see them in action. Bruno’s website can help you find a dealer in your area.
- Returns: Varies by dealer
- Buy-back program: Varies by dealer
Customer service
You can reach a Bruno representative Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT.
- Phone: 800-454-4355
Stannah: Easiest to Use
Stannah earned our title as the Easiest to Use Stair Lift because of its thoughtful accessibility options. You only need one hand to fasten the seat belt. It also features easier-to-press armrest controls and extra safety features. Stannah is our favorite user-friendly option for people with dexterity issues.
- Accessible and user-friendly seat belt
- Remote to call the seat to you
- Comfortable and secure
- Standout feature: Easier-to-use seat belt
- Where to buy: Local dealers
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs
- Warranty: 2-year
- Used models available: Yes
- Rental options: Yes
Why we chose Stannah as the Easiest Stair Lift to Use
We chose the Stannah as the Easiest Star Lift to Use because it comes with several features that make it accessible and user-friendly. With separate remotes, a seat belt you can buckle with one hand, and a power swivel option, the Stannah could be a great choice for those with limited mobility.
Stannah pros and cons
Pros
- Accessible seat belt needs only one hand to buckle
- Remote to call the chair to you
- Comfortable chair
- Customizable design
Cons
- More expensive than Bruno
- Gears are loud
- Feels slightly less steady than Bruno
Our testing experience with Stannah Stair Lifts
We tested the Stannah Starla and Siena models (both straight and curved versions). When we tested both Stannah models, our testers appreciated the brand’s extra comfortable seats. The chairs felt supportive and sturdy. Testers especially liked how easy it is to use the button to control the lift. Stannah claims you can use any part of your hand to interact with the button, and we found that to be true. “This one feels like it's contoured for your hand, so if you have limited hand dexterity, you could potentially still operate it,” one tester said. This makes Stannah a great option for people with arthritis or limited movement.
Likewise, we were impressed by how accessible the seat belt is. Unlike other brands, which have a traditional belt that clicks in like a car seat belt, the Stannah has a wide belt that clicks into a holder across the lap. It’s designed to only need one hand to operate it. “The seat belt is so nice and easy—way easier than Bruno, Harmar, etc.,” one tester said. This simple change can make a big difference in the lift’s ease of use. We also liked that Stannah comes with two remotes: one for each story. Users can call the chair if they’re on the opposite floor. This makes the Stannah a good choice for homes where multiple people use the lift.
Apart from its accessible, thoughtful design, Stannah also comes with the most options to customize the look of your stair lift chair. Most stair lift brands offer about four different upholstery color options. Stannah offers 12 different ones, with the ability to customize wood trim on your chair as well.
It’s worth noting that Stannah tends to be more expensive than Bruno. And the ride is slightly louder and less smooth than Bruno’s stair lifts. But if you’re looking for the easiest to use stair lift, this could be a good choice.
The Stannah customer experience
The team at Stannah works with you to finance your stair lift. When you receive your quote, you can ask for Stannah financing options, or you can work with a Stannah dealer to find a financing option that works for you.
- Returns: 14-day return window
- Buy-back program: Yes
Customer service
You can contact Stannah customer service Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, and Saturdays and Sundays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. ET:
- Phone: 1-800-965-6230
- Website: Contact form
Harmar: Most Comfortable
We chose Harmar as the Most Comfortable Stair Lift because its ergonomic chair offers great back support. It features an extra high back, a wide, rechargeable swivel chair, and a padded seat. Most other brands we tested use a seat that’s one piece of molded plastic. Harmar uses a separate seat and chair back that sits higher on the back, making it more supportive and better contoured. The adjustable chair was the most comfortable one we tried during our testing.
- Smooth ride
- Adjustable chair for various sizes/heights
- Grippy footrest for stability
- Standout feature: Adjustable chair may help with back pain
- Where to buy: Local dealers
- Weight capacity: 400+ lbs
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
- Used models available: No
- Rental options: Yes
Why we chose Harmar as the Most Comfortable Stair Lift
We chose Harmar as the Most Comfortable Star Lift because the Helix Curved model’s unique chair design was the most comfortable and supportive of any brand we tested. The stable footrest and foldable chair make the Harmar a secure lift to use. Plus, its high back and wide seat make it accessible for a range of body types. Many seats we tested had small or low back rests, so this design was a welcome change. There are many different seat styles to choose from, depending on the Harmar model. It’s best to test the different ones in person to find your most comfortable fit.
Harmar pros and cons
Pros
- Seat can be raised or lowered
- Smooth ride
- Stable footrest for security
Cons
- Exposed gear track
- Louder sound
- Some models look clinical
- More expensive
Our testing experience with Harmar Stair Lifts
We tested two versions of the Harmar Pinnacle straight stair lift (SL300 and SL600) and the Harmar Helix Curved stair lift. When we tested the Harmar Helix Curved, we were impressed by the comfort and support of the chair itself. Unlike other brands that have a single molded piece of plastic, the Helix has a separate seat and backrest. “I think it helps to make it feel more contoured to my back,” one tester said. We feel this makes Harmar stair lifts stand out for those with back pain, requiring extra support, or who just want a more comfortable ride.
The Harmar also has a foldable track, so it’s easier to keep the equipment out of the way when you aren’t using it. We did notice the Harmar is noisier than the other brands we tested, but it didn’t bother our testers. “You can hear a bit of a ‘whirring’ in the beginning, but that quiets down,” one tester said. “It’s like a low-pitched drone. Not bad.”
Like the other stair lifts we tested, Harmar has a user-friendly control button and is straightforward to use. “[The Harmar is good for] people who don’t mind a little extra noise but appreciate a comfortable seat,” one tester said. “That’s the biggest thing this has going for it.”
It’s worth noting that, while testers said Harmar had a model with the most comfortable chair, it was also the most clinical-looking. “The Harmar Helix Curved chair is a yellowish-beige color. It looks a bit like hospital equipment,” one tester said. If the appearance of the chair bothers you, you may want to consider other Harmar models. Or check out Stannah, which has the best upholstery options.
Harmar doesn’t offer a buyback program. If this is important to you, consider purchasing from a dealer who does, rather than directly from the company. Harmar also tends to be more expensive than every brand on this list.
The Harmar customer experience
You’ll need to ask your local stair lift dealer if they offer financing options. You can use Harmar’s website to find a local dealer.
- Returns: Varies by dealer
- Buy-back program: Varies by dealer
Customer service
You can contact Harmar customer service Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. ET:
- Phone: 800-833-0478
Lifeway Mobility: Best Stair Lift Dealer
We chose Lifeway Mobility as the Best Stair Lift Dealer because we were impressed by their personalized customer service and the wide range of stair lift brands they have available. If you want to buy your stairlift from a company that offers financing and buyback programs, Lifeway Mobility is our top choice.
- Sells stair lifts from a range of brands
- Showrooms allow buyers to test different lifts
- Free consultations
- Standout feature: Excellent customer service
- Where to buy: Locations across the country
- Warranty: 3-year warranty on parts and 1-year labor warranty
- Used models available: Yes
- Rental options: Yes
Why we chose Lifeway Mobility as the Best Stair Lift Dealer
We chose Lifeway Mobility as the Best Stair Lift Dealer because we were impressed by their customer service, both in-person and over the phone. We also like that Lifeway Mobility offers a wide range of stair lift brands, financing options, used models, and a buyback program. These features make Lifeway Mobility a good place to find the right lift for you.
Lifeway Mobility pros and cons
Pros
- Lots of stair lift brands to test
- Professional and friendly
- Personalized service
- Financing options to fit your budget
Cons
- Showrooms not available in every state
Our testing experience with Lifeway Mobility
When we tested the stair lift purchasing experience with Lifeway Mobility, we were impressed by the high level of customer service offered by its team. Our testers mystery shopped at Lifeway Mobility (meaning they pretended to be normal customers) and had positive interactions with everyone at the showroom.
The staff who answered the phone were professional and friendly, and they promptly followed up with the requested information. When we first scheduled our showroom appointments with Lifeway Mobility, they were courteous and empathetic, asking about our family member’s mobility challenges with care and concern. They even encouraged us to consider less-expensive, alternative mobility devices before purchasing a stair lift (since they can be such big investments). Testers said they felt like Lifeway Mobility salespeople were looking out for their best interests—not just trying to make a sale. “The sales person was patient and listened to everything I had to say,” one tester said. “He asked me lots of questions about my family member’s mobility challenges. When I told him my mother fell and was still mobile but looking into a stair lift, he said he was sorry but glad she was still able to move around.”
When Lifeway Mobility staff called our testers the day before their appointments as a courtesy reminder, the staff greeted our testers by name and asked them how their day was. “I really appreciated the personal touch,” said one tester.
Our testers were impressed with Lifeway’s open and clean showroom. They also valued the patience of the staff. “I met with their sales lead and his boss,” one tester said. “I was there for two hours, and they answered all my questions with a smile on their face. We test-drove every single stair lift. They really seem to be very empathetic.”
Customer service is important in the stair lift company you choose as it involves a home installation, and you want that done properly. This can make all the difference in your experience. “I was satisfied [with my installation],” said a stair lift user from our July 2025 survey of people with mobility devices in their homes.1 “My stairs were not damaged and the new lift makes it easier for me to get upstairs where my bed and bathroom is. Installers were kind and respectful while teaching me how to use it.”
We like that Lifeway Mobility has multiple lifts for you to try out. Since Lifeway offers financing options, the opportunity to buy used models, and a buyback program, you have several ways to save on your stair lift. These options are important in ensuring stair lifts are accessible to people who otherwise would be unable to afford one.
Our testers were able to visit actual showrooms, but locations are limited. Lifeway Mobility has 11 showrooms across the country with fully operational stair lifts for test-riding. But those are only located in/near major cities. If you live far from a showroom, Lifeway also offers a virtual showroom where you can see the stair lifts in action.
The Lifeway Mobility customer experience
Lifeway Mobility sells, installs, and offers maintenance on stair lifts from different brands. You can ask about financing options when you receive your quote. Lifeway Mobility also has a helpful list of funding sources on its website.
- Financing: Yes
- Returns: Yes
- Buy-back program: Yes
Customer service
You can contact Lifeway Mobility customer service Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CT:
- Phone: 888-714-1930
- Contact form: Available on the website
Our process testing the best stair lifts
Our team has spent hundreds of hours researching and testing stair lifts so you can feel confident in our reviews. We work with experts in medicine, mobility, aging, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. Those experts help us learn what features are most important when searching for the best stair lifts.
For this review, we personally tested 10 models of stair lifts identified through our research to offer safe, smooth, comfortable, and quiet rides. Each stair lift was subjected to 17 rigorous tests to ensure we have real-world data on how they perform.
We considered these important factors when testing the best stair lifts for older adults:
Accessibility
We tested the overall accessibility of each stair lift by sitting in them ourselves, riding them up and down, and trying every feature (seat belt, footrest, chair swivel, etc.). We made note of any difficulties (like one-handed versus two-handed seat belts) that make one brand or model more accessible than the others. We wanted to make sure the stair lifts were accessible for a wide range of people.
Comfort
We tested the comfort of each stair lift by riding in them ourselves. We noted which chairs offered extra back support, more cushioning, and ergonomic chairs that mold to your body’s shape.
Ease of use
In each stair lift we tested, we rated how easy it was to sit down, buckle up, and maneuver the chair. We made sure each one had safety features or child locks to help keep everyone in the household safe.
How do stair lifts work?
Stair lifts have two main parts: a rail and a chair. The rail is typically installed on top of each stair. The chair then travels up and down the rail. You sit on the chair, buckle yourself in, and use a control (typically located on the end of the armrest) that allows you to direct the chair up or down. The chair swivels, either automatically or manually, so you safely face away from the stairs as you enter or exit the lift.
How long do stair lifts last?
Stair lifts typically last about 10 years. They might last longer or shorter, depending on how heavily they are used and the quality of the brand.
How much do the best stair lifts cost?
Stair lifts cost anywhere between $3,000–$15,000, depending on their length, whether they are curved or straight, and the features they include. This price typically doesn’t include installation.
| Comparison Features | Bruno |
Stannah |
Harmar |
Lifeway Mobility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting cost (straight) | $3,000 |
$3,400 |
$3,700 |
$3,000 |
| Starting cost (curved) | $9,500 |
$8,800 |
$7,000 |
$9,000 |
| Financing | No |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
| Warranty length | Limited lifetime |
2-year |
Limited lifetime |
Varies |
Note: Costs do not include installation
How to save money on stair lifts
There are several ways to help save money on a stair lift. Purchasing a used model is often more affordable than buying a new one. Buyback programs are also a good choice, so you can sell the lift back to the company once you’re no longer using it. Some companies, like Lifeway Mobility, offer financing, allowing you to pay for your lift in installments instead of having to pay the entire amount upfront.
Does Medicare cover stair lifts?
No, Medicare doesn’t cover stair lifts. Stair lifts are labeled as home modification, not durable medical equipment, so they are not typically covered under Medicare.
Some plans, like Medicare Advantage, may cover a stair lift with a doctor’s prescription and documentation that it is medically necessary. You’ll need to speak with your insurance provider to find out if you have coverage
Are stair lifts covered by insurance?
Like Medicare, insurance doesn’t cover stair lifts. You usually have to find other methods of funding, like financing. But it’s always worth checking with your insurance provider to see if they have options for discounts or partial coverage.
Stair lift warranties
Stair lift warranties usually cover the main mechanical components of a stair lift, like the motor and gears. Some companies, like Bruno, offer a limited lifetime warranty that covers your lift for as long as you have it, while others, like Stannah, only offer a 2-year warranty.
Benefits of stair lifts
Stair lifts have a lot of benefits, but their main one is that they can help you age in place if you live in a multistory home. Stair lifts support your ability to move safely from one story to another and minimize your risk of falling on the stairs. Falls are a significant risk for older adults. Every year 1 in 4 adults 65 and older fall. And it’s the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older adults.2
For many people, stair lifts help them stay more mobile than they would be otherwise. They help provide access to the entirety of your home without extensive renovations.
When we surveyed 600 older adults with mobility challenges, 65% of respondents said their stair lifts have brought enhanced mobility and ease of movement. And 92% of respondents said their stair lifts have a “positive” or “very positive” impact on their life.
“After having a stair lift installed in my home, my daily life changed dramatically,” said one survey respondent.
“Before we had the stair lift,” said another survey respondent, “I was limited to going to the first floor of the house 1 or 2 times a week. Now I can go downstairs 1 to 2 times a day. This makes it easier for me to cook and have a change of scenery.”
Without a stair lift, many people try to cobble together ways to age in place in multistory homes. “My mother has a walker strategically placed in her living room or by her stairs, and then her wheelchair is upstairs right by the stairs,” said one participant in our August 2025 focus group of mobility device users and care partners.3
Others had no choice but to move to a one-story living space. Another focus group participant was living with her daughter but wasn’t able to manage the three floors safely.
“I was living in a house with my older daughter and she lived in a tri-level. So any room I wanted to go to other than downstairs where my bedroom was, I had to take the stairs, whether it was four steps to get out of the basement area or a full flight of stairs to go upstairs. It got to the point that I was falling down even those four steps, and my doctor said I couldn't do the stairs anymore for my safety.”
This participant's daughter had already installed a walk-in tub for her, and she felt guilty asking for more home modifications. She ended up moving to a trailer where she was able to manage day-to-day.
How to buy a stair lift
To purchase a stair lift, contact the dealer or company that interests you the most and schedule an appointment. They will usually send a representative to discuss your needs and walk through your home with you. Then, they will provide you with a customized quote tailored to your specific needs. Depending on what they offer, you either pay up front or apply for financing. Installation of a stair lift takes an afternoon.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best stair lift?
The Bruno is our pick for Best Stair Lift Overall because it has a smooth, quiet ride and a small footprint.
Does Medicare cover stair lifts?
Usually, no. Medicare, particularly Medicare Advantage, may consider coverage if it’s been deemed medically necessary by a doctor with a prescription.
Are stair lifts covered by insurance?
Insurance typically does not cover stair lifts, but coverage may vary depending on your specific insurance plan. It never hurts to ask your insurance company, as they may cover a portion of the lift if it is deemed medically necessary by a doctor with a prescription. If you have long-term care insurance, check with your insurance provider to find out if stair lifts are covered under your policy.
How much do stair lifts cost?
Stair lifts cost anywhere between $3,000–$15,000, depending on length, whether they are straight or curved, and included features. This price does not include installation.
How much does a used stair lift cost?
The cost of a used stair lift depends on its age and the seller. It’s typically less than the $3,000–$15,000 a new one costs.