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Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Stair Lifts

Stairs become the enemy as we age—but moving houses is worse. We researched stair lifts from basic straight-rail to curved custom—helping you understand what makes a home accessible without a second mortgage.

Last updated: January 28, 2026

Best Overall Comparison All Products User Reviews Buying Guide FAQ

Best Overall Our top recommendation

Best Overall

Bruno

Elite Straight Rail Stair Lift

4.7 (2,345 reviews)

The premium choice American stair lift dealers recommend. Quiet operation and exceptional build quality—designed to last 15+ years.

Capacity

400 lbs

Speed

25 fpm

Rail

Narrow profile

Power

Battery backup

Pros

✓ American made
✓ Narrow rail design
✓ Covered gear rack (quiet)

Cons

✗ Premium price
✗ Professional install required
✗ Straight stairs only

$3,500 - $5,000 installed

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Head-to-Head Comparison

Product	Rating	Price	Action
Elite Straight Rail Stair Lift Best Bruno	4.7	$3,500 - $5,000 installed	View
Pinnacle SL300 Stair Lift Value Harmar	4.5	$2,500 - $4,000 installed	View
Starla 600 Curved Stair Lift Stannah	4.8	$10,000 - $15,000 installed	View
Rubex AC Stair Lift AmeriGlide	4.3	$1,800 - $3,000 installed	View
130 Straight Stairlift Acorn	4.4	$3,000 - $4,500 installed	View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall

Bruno

Elite Straight Rail Stair Lift

4.7 (2,345 reviews)

The premium choice American stair lift dealers recommend. Quiet operation and exceptional build quality—designed to last 15+ years.

Capacity

400 lbs

Speed

25 fpm

Rail

Narrow profile

Power

Battery backup

Pros

✓ American made
✓ Narrow rail design
✓ Covered gear rack (quiet)

Cons

✗ Premium price
✗ Professional install required
✗ Straight stairs only

$3,500 - $5,000 installed

View on Amazon

Best Value

Harmar

Pinnacle SL300 Stair Lift

4.5 (3,456 reviews)

Reliable American-made option at moderate pricing. All essential safety features without premium markup.

Capacity

350 lbs

Speed

20 fpm

Seat

Swivel

Power

Battery with charger

Pros

✓ Good value
✓ Swivel seat
✓ Folding footrest/armrests

Cons

✗ Slightly louder
✗ Basic aesthetics
✗ Standard capacity

$2,500 - $4,000 installed

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Premium Pick

Stannah

Starla 600 Curved Stair Lift

4.8 (1,234 reviews)

For curved staircases, split landings, or unusual layouts. Custom-manufactured to your specific stairs—the only solution for complex configurations.

Capacity

300 lbs

Rail

Custom curved

Seat

Perched or seated

Track

Single rail

Pros

✓ Handles curves/landings
✓ Custom-built to stairs
✓ Smooth ride

Cons

✗ Very expensive
✗ Long lead time
✗ Custom—no resale value

$10,000 - $15,000 installed

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Budget Pick

AmeriGlide

Rubex AC Stair Lift

4.3 (4,567 reviews)

Entry point to stair lift ownership. No battery replacement costs, and DIY installation saves hundreds.

Capacity

350 lbs

Power

AC only

Install

DIY available

Speed

18 fpm

Pros

✓ Most affordable
✓ AC powered (no batteries)
✓ DIY install option

Cons

✗ No power outage operation
✗ Louder than DC
✗ Basic features

$1,800 - $3,000 installed

View on Amazon

Acorn

130 Straight Stairlift

4.4 (5,678 reviews)

The most heavily advertised option. Direct sales model means competitive pricing but you're locked into their service network.

Capacity

350 lbs

Speed

23 fpm

Fold

Compact

Power

DC battery

Pros

✓ Direct from manufacturer
✓ Quick installation
✓ Compact folded

Cons

✗ Proprietary—repairs through Acorn only
✗ Mid-tier quality
✗ Standard features

$3,000 - $4,500 installed

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Buying Guide: How to Choose Stair Lifts

Stair Lifts: When Stairs Become the Enemy

The day Grandma couldn't get to her bedroom upstairs was terrifying. A stair lift meant she didn't have to choose between her home and her safety.

Straight vs. Curved
Straight stair lifts:
$2,500 - $5,000 installed
- Fits standard straight staircases
- Stock rails, faster installation
- Can be resold/moved

Curved stair lifts:
- $10,000 - $15,000+ installed
- Required for curved stairs, landings, turns
- Custom-manufactured to your stairs
- Long lead times (4-6 weeks)
- No resale value (won't fit other stairs)

### Key Features to Evaluate
Safety:
- Seatbelt (required)
- Swivel seat at top landing
- Obstruction sensors
- Footrest sensors

Comfort:
- Seat width and padding
- Armrest positions
- Smooth start/stop

Practicality:
- Folded width (others can pass?)
- Key lock (grandchildren safety)
- Battery backup (power outages)

### Cost Factors
- Stair length: Longer = more rail = higher cost
- Complexity: Curves, landings add thousands
- Installation: DIY saves money, professional safer
- Brand: Premium brands cost more, last longer

### Alternatives to Consider
- Platform lifts: For wheelchair users
- Home elevators: $20,000+ but adds value
- Main-floor living: Bedroom/bath conversion
- Moving: Sometimes cheaper long-term

Frequently Asked Questions About Stair Lifts

Will Medicare pay for a stair lift?

No. Medicare doesn't cover stair lifts as they're considered "home modifications" not durable medical equipment. Some Medicaid waiver programs may help, and certain VA benefits cover them. Consider CareCredit or home equity loans for financing.

Can I install a stair lift myself?

Some straight-rail models (AmeriGlide Rubex, others) offer DIY installation. You'll need basic tools and mechanical ability. Saves $500-1,000 but warranty may be affected. Curved lifts always require professional installation.

What about outdoor stairs?

Outdoor stair lifts exist for porches, decks, and exterior stairs. They have weather-resistant components but cost more and require more maintenance. Cover when not in use. Budget $4,000-$8,000 for outdoor straight rails.

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