When you need to work at height, choosing between a scissor lift and a boom lift (also known as a cherry picker) is one of the most important decisions you will make. Both get you up in the air, but they are designed for very different jobs. This guide explains the key differences so you can hire the right machine.
What is a Scissor Lift?
A scissor lift is a platform that rises vertically on crossed (scissor) arms. It provides a large, stable work platform — typically enough room for two people plus tools and materials. Scissor lifts are available in electric (indoor use, quiet, zero emissions) and diesel (outdoor, rough terrain) variants, with platform heights from around 4m up to 18m.
What is a Boom Lift (Cherry Picker)?
A boom lift, or cherry picker, has an articulating or telescopic arm with a smaller platform at the end. The key advantage is reach — boom lifts can extend up and over obstacles, reaching areas that a scissor lift simply cannot access. Articulating booms (knuckle booms) have multiple joints for maximum flexibility, while telescopic booms offer straight-line reach and greater horizontal outreach.
Key Differences
| Feature | Scissor Lift | Boom Lift |
|---|---|---|
| Platform size | Large (2+ people) | Small (1-2 people) |
| Reach type | Vertical only | Up and over obstacles |
| Max height | Up to ~18m | Up to ~40m+ |
| Horizontal reach | Minimal | Significant (up to 20m+) |
| Best for | Flat, open areas | Obstructed or tight access |
When to Use Each
Choose a scissor lift when: you need to work in a relatively open area, you need space for multiple workers and materials on the platform, and you only need vertical reach. Scissor lifts are ideal for warehouse maintenance, ceiling installations, facade work on flat ground, and indoor construction.
Choose a boom lift when: you need to reach up and over obstacles (trees, buildings, equipment), you need significant horizontal outreach, or you need to access hard-to-reach areas like building facades with protruding features, rooftops, or overhead lines. Boom lifts are the standard for exterior building maintenance, signage installation, and complex industrial environments.
IPAF Requirements
Both scissor lifts and boom lifts require the operator to hold a valid IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) certification. For scissor lifts, you need the 3a category (vertical platforms). For boom lifts, you need the 3b category (boom lifts). If you do not have a certified operator, we can provide trained operators for hire — just ask when you book.
Need Help Choosing?
Our team can help you select the right powered access equipment for your project. Get a quote online or call 0333 006 2011. We deliver nationwide, Monday to Saturday.