Straight vs curved stairlift: what's the difference?
When considering a stairlift, the first question is simple: is your staircase straight or does it have turns? The answer determines which type of stairlift you need, and the differences between the two are significant — in price, delivery time, installation, and footprint.
At MPG, we've been installing both types for over 20 years across Luxembourg. Here's a practical comparison to help you decide.
What is a straight stairlift?
A straight stairlift is designed for staircases that go from one floor to another in a straight line, with no turns or intermediate landings. The rail is straight and standardised: it's cut to the right length, but the shape is the same from one installation to the next.
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At MPG, we install the Otolift Modul-Air Smart on straight staircases — the same model we use for curved staircases. Its 60 mm mono-rail — the thinnest on the market — is fixed directly to the stairs. The seat folds completely and the staircase stays fully usable for other family members.
What is a curved stairlift?
A curved stairlift is needed whenever your staircase has at least one turn, intermediate landing, or curve — which is the case for the vast majority of homes in Luxembourg. The rail is manufactured entirely to measure based on 3D laser measurements of your staircase.
For curved staircases, MPG installs two Otolift models: the Modul-Air Smart (60 mm mono-rail, the thinnest in the world) and the Two (double-rail, ideal for tight curves and very narrow staircases).
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Price: the biggest difference
This is the most significant difference. A straight stairlift costs considerably less because the rail is standard.
In Luxembourg, here are MPG's indicative price ranges:
Straight stairlift (indoor): from approximately €3,500
Curved stairlift (1 floor, a few turns): from approximately €7,000
Curved stairlift (2 floors or complex spiral): from approximately €12,000
These prices are before Assurance Dépendance coverage. With AEC support, your out-of-pocket cost can drop to zero.
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Delivery time
A straight stairlift can be installed very quickly. Since the rail is standard, it's often available from stock. At MPG, the timeframe between order and installation is typically 1 to 2 weeks for a straight model.
For a curved stairlift, the rail must be custom-manufactured at the Otolift workshops in the Netherlands based on the exact measurements of your staircase. Allow 2 to 3 weeks between quote approval and installation.
Installation
Installing a straight stairlift is quick and simple. An MPG technician installs a straight model in 2 to 3 hours on average. The rail is fixed to the stairs (not the wall), so no structural modifications are needed.
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For a curved stairlift, installation takes longer: typically 4 to 6 hours depending on staircase complexity. The technician positions the rail precisely through each turn and tunes the seat trajectory for a perfectly smooth ride.
In both cases, MPG tests the stairlift with you and trains all users before leaving.
Footprint
Whether your staircase is straight or curved, the Modul-Air Smart uses the same ultra-thin 60 mm mono-rail — the thinnest on the market. For a straight staircase, the rail is simply cut to length; for a curved one, it's custom-bent to follow each turn. In both cases, fixed to the stairs (not the wall), the staircase stays accessible and the seat folds completely (seat, armrests, footrest) to clear the passage.
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Lifespan and maintenance
No significant difference. Both types have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years with regular maintenance. MPG offers annual maintenance contracts for both.
How do you know which type you need?
It's simple: look at your staircase. If it goes straight from one floor to another, with no turn or landing, you need a straight stairlift. As soon as there's a turn, an angle, a landing or a curve — it's a curved stairlift.
If you're not sure, the easiest thing is to request a free home visit. Our technician assesses your staircase in person, takes the measurements and tells you immediately which type fits, with a precise quote.
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What about Assurance Dépendance?
Good news: both types of stairlift are eligible for coverage by Luxembourg's Assurance Dépendance, whether your staircase is straight or curved. The application process is identical in both cases, and MPG guides you through every step.
Request your free assessment
At MPG, the home visit is always free and without obligation. Our technician measures your staircase, presents the right model and prepares a detailed quote — whether your staircase is straight, curved or spiral.
Call +352 33 33 73 or request your visit online.
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