You want to safely overcome a staircase or a change of level at home, but you're torn between a stairlift and a platform lift? Both restore independence at home — but they suit different situations. Here's how to make the right choice.
The key question: seat or wheelchair?
It all comes down to one simple criterion: can the person sit on a seat, or do they stay in their wheelchair?
If they can walk a few steps and sit on a swivel seat → a stairlift is the most suitable, compact and affordable solution.
If they move in a wheelchair and must stay in it → you need a platform lift that carries the wheelchair and its user.
The stairlift: compact and affordable
A stairlift is a motorised seat that follows your staircase along a rail fixed to the steps. It fits the vast majority of situations where the person can sit down.
Benefits: minimal footprint (the stairs remain usable for the rest of the family), fast installation (often in a day, no major work), lower cost, suitable for straight and curved staircases.
👉 Discover our stairlifts.
The platform lift: for wheelchairs
There are two types of platform:
Would you like to know the price for your staircase?
1.The inclined platform stairlift — a platform that follows the staircase, like a stairlift, but large enough for a wheelchair. Ideal for climbing a full staircase in a wheelchair.
2.The vertical platform lift — it rises vertically to overcome a threshold, a few steps or a low storey, indoors or outdoors. Perfect for a raised entrance or a terrace.
👉 See our platform stairlifts or our platform lifts.
Bear in mind: a platform needs more space than a simple seat and is a larger investment — but it's the only solution that fully preserves the independence of a wheelchair user.
Comparison table
| Criterion | Stairlift (seat) | Platform lift |
|---|---|---|
| For whom? | Can sit on a seat | Stays in a wheelchair |
| Footprint | Minimal | Larger |
| Stairs still usable | Yes (folding seat) | Depends on model |
| Budget | More affordable | Higher |
| Indoor / outdoor | Both | Both |
| Installation | Often 1 day | Depends on setup |
Are both covered by the Long-Term Care Insurance?
Both may be authorised as technical aids after the AEC's individual assessment. The decision specifies the selected equipment and any amount covered. MPG guides you through every step.
👉 Learn more about Long-Term Care Insurance coverage.
How to decide? A free home visit is all it takes
Every home and situation is different. The simplest way: an MPG technician visits you free of charge, assesses your staircase, mobility and needs, and recommends the solution that truly fits — with no obligation.
📞 Call +352 33 33 73 or request your free quote.
Would you like to know the price for your staircase?
Frequently asked questions
Does a platform lift take up a lot of space?
More than a stairlift, yes, but our Ascendor and Lehner models are designed to stay compact and discreet. The home visit confirms the available space.
Can a platform be installed outdoors?
Yes, there are weather-resistant models for entrances, terraces and gardens.
Is a stairlift suitable for a curved staircase?
Yes, our stairlifts adapt to straight, curved and spiral staircases with a custom rail.
