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?
Yes. In Luxembourg, both the stairlift and the vertical platform lift are considered technical aids that can be covered by the Long-Term Care Insurance (Assurance Dépendance) via the CNS — sometimes 100% of the cheapest quote, based on two quotes. 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.
