What is the difference between a boom lift and an articulating lift? Many people confuse these two pieces of equipment, but they have distinct features and uses. Boom lifts and articulating lifts are both lifts that are designed to help people work at height safely and efficiently. However, there are significant differences between the two, ranging from the types of jobs they are best suited for to the specific features that make each type of lift unique.

**Types and Uses

One of the primary differences between boom lifts and articulating lifts involves the types of jobs they are best suited for. While both types of lifts are useful for working at height, they are each designed for different purposes. Boom lifts are ideal for jobs that require vertical reach and a large, stable working platform. They are typically used for outdoor work such as construction, surveying, and maintenance, and they can reach heights of up to 150 feet.

Articulating lifts, on the other hand, are designed for jobs that require a high degree of maneuverability and flexibility. They are often used in indoor settings such as factories, warehouses, and other industrial facilities, as they are smaller and more compact than boom lifts. They can reach heights of up to 100 feet, and their main advantage is their ability to reach around obstacles.

**Features

Another main difference between boom lifts and articulating lifts is their features. Boom lifts are large and powerful, with a substantial working platform that can accommodate several workers and their equipment. They have straight booms that extend vertically and reach high into the air. Many boom lifts also feature rotating platforms that allow workers to move around the job site easily.

Articulating lifts, on the other hand, are much smaller and more compact in size, with a much smaller working platform. They feature a series of interlocking arms that allow for precise movement and positioning, making them ideal for jobs that require tight turns and corners. Additionally, articulating lifts feature a much smaller footprint than boom lifts, making them easier to maneuver and store in tight spaces.

**Power Sources

Another important difference between boom lifts and articulating lifts involves their power sources. Boom lifts are usually gas-powered, diesel-powered, or electric-powered, providing more power for greater working heights. They are often used for outdoor work that requires high reach and superior stability.

Articulating lifts, on the other hand, are typically electric-powered. Their smaller size and lower weight make electric power a better choice for indoor applications where emissions and noise can be an issue. Electric power also offers a smoother, quieter ride, making it easier for operators to maneuver around the job site.

**Price

Lastly, there is also a difference in price for boom lifts and articulating lifts. Generally speaking, boom lifts tend to be more expensive than articulating lifts, with prices ranging from $25,000 to $80,000 depending on the size and brand. Articulating lifts, on the other hand, are more affordable, with prices ranging from $15,000 to $50,000.

**Conclusion

In conclusion, the difference between a boom lift and an articulating lift lies in several key factors such as their uses, features, power sources, and price. While both types of lifts are useful for working at height, they differ in the types of jobs they are best suited for. Boom lifts are better for outdoor jobs that require high reach and stable platforms, while articulating lifts are better for indoor jobs that require maneuverability and flexibility.

Furthermore, boom lifts tend to be larger and more powerful, with gas or diesel power sources, while articulating lifts are typically electric-powered and much more compact. In terms of price, boom lifts are generally more expensive than their articulating lift counterparts. Ultimately, the choice between boom and articulating lifts will depend on the specific needs of the job or project at hand.