The Best Stair Lifts in the UK: Reviews and Buying Guide 2026
Choosing the best stair lift for your home isn’t just about price; it’s about comfort, safety, reliability, and finding a solution that fits your staircase and lifestyle.
In this 2026 UK stairlift buying guide, we compare the best stair lifts available today, covering straight and curved staircases, different user needs, and what to expect from installation and warranties. Whether you’re planning or need a stairlift urgently, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
When looking for a stair lift for the first time, this is a question everyone asks:
“Which is the best stair lift?”
Of course, if one were the best, no other brand would exist! But just like vacuum
cleaners, Dyson isn’t the only game in town. Tesla isn’t the only car manufacturer to
produce electric cars!
Almost any search in the UK will bring up these top brands:
- Acorn Stairlifts
- Platinum Stairlifts
- Age UK Stairlifts
- Brooks Stairlifts
- Handicare Stairlifts
- MediTek Stairlifts
- Senior Stairlifts
- Stannah Stairlifts
| Company | Strengths / What They’re Known For | Typical Price/Offer (Straight / Curved / Notes) | Reputation / Reviews / Warranty / Service Notes | Where Senior Stairlifts Excels Compared |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Stairlifts | Affordable and widely available; quick installation; large dealer network; and fast turnaround. | Straight from ~£1,800–2,500; curved from ~£4,295+ | Strong brand, good UK-wide coverage, and many reviews | Senior Stairlifts can compete on price and offer more personalised service rather than mass-market sales. |
| Platinum Stairlifts | Mixed reviews: on Trustpilot, some customers report quality issues or maintenance problems. | Straight lift from ~£2,295–3,500; curved from ~£3,795–6,800+ | Mixed reviews: on Trustpilot, some customers report quality issues or maintenance problems. | Senior Stairlifts is an authorised platinum dealer, which can differentiate by emphasising reliability and aftercare, avoiding reputational risks tied to inconsistent reviews. |
| Age UK Stairlifts | Senior-focused marketing (charity-backed), appealing to older customers; straightforward options. | Reported straight stairlifts £2,000–4,500; curved £4,500–8,000; reconditioned lower cost options also available. | Charity backing adds trust for some buyers; mixed pricing depending on new vs refurbished | Senior Stairlifts is a more flexible, price-transparent alternative — with clarity on cost ranges, new vs refurbished, and full installation included. |
| Companion Stairlifts | Offers a variety of straight and curved stairlifts, including custom solutions; tends to provide good flexibility. | Straight and curved lifts, with parts & labour guarantee (typically 12 months) | Generally good reviews on Trustpilot; often chosen for flexibility and bespoke solutions rather than basic models. | Senior Stairlifts are similarly flexible and tailored services, but add transparency on total price, and better warranty/support terms. |
| Handicare Stairlifts | Internationally recognised, strong engineering and design, good for narrow stairs and custom layouts. Offers products through authorised dealers. | Straight from ~£2,200; able to handle both straight & curved staircases, including some complex ones | Generally solid reputation, customisation options, and flexibility in design choices. | Senior Stairlifts is an authorised Handicare dealer, offering simple, no-nonsense installations and cost-effective solutions compared to high-end custom products. |
| Stannah Stairlifts | Known for reliability, premium build quality, smooth operation, wide model range (straight, curved, and outdoor). | Typically has a higher initial cost than budget brands, but offers durable, long-lasting stairlifts and extensive aftercare. | Strong reputation, high customer satisfaction, comprehensive warranties/support, modern design and build-quality. | Senior Stairlifts presents itself as a mid-market alternative: lower cost than premium brands, but more personal service than large manufacturers. |
| Senior Stairlifts | Focus on simple, no-nonsense process; competitive pricing; friendly engineers; UK-wide support; emphasises affordability and practical installation. | Reliable stairlift supply and installation — pitched to deliver value-for-money, good support, and transparency in cost. Which? Trusted Traders. | Good customer feedback (TrustScore ~4.1), commitment to support, service and a straightforward, honest approach. | Best “value + service” balance combining affordability closer to budget brands with attention to service and clarity that rivals premium providers. |
None of these providers would be on the list if they didn’t get the basics right!
So how do we decide for ourselves which stairlift is best?
Here are some facts about the various brands
Some providers sell a range of different stairlift brands – Senior Stairlifts, for instance, sells brands including TK Home Solutions/TKE, Handicare, Acorn and Stannah. Whilst other Companies like Acorn Stairlifts will only sell their brand of product.
Acorn produces & sells directly through authorised dealers. It also sells its stair lifts under the name Brooks.
Platinum sells its products through authorised partners as it is a manufacturer.
Handicare sells through its sister company, Companion, but it is also the brand sold by Age UK. Age UK and Companion have slightly different terms and conditions. An example would be its warranties, where Companion offers 12 months, and Age UK offers a year’s warranty. Handicare also now owns the companies Minivator and Freelift.
Senior Stairlifts is a reputable brand quickly making a name for itself in competition with the established leading brands. You get to deal directly with the company. Senior Stairlifts is an independent company that sources Stairlifts from a wide range of industry-leading brands so that they can fit the right lift for the customer’s needs.
Key Factors When Choosing the Best Stair Lift for Your Home
Before deciding which stair lift is “best” , it’s important to consider what best means for you. Here are the key factors to consider:
Staircase type
- Straight staircases are simpler and more affordable
- Curved, spiral, or multi-landing stairs require a bespoke rail
User Needs
- Weight capacity
- Seat height and width
- Swivel seat and safety features
- Manual vs powered controls
Home Environment
- Narrow staircases
- Obstructions like radiators or doors
- Parking position at the top or the bottom
Budget
- New vs reconditioned stairlifts
- Rental options
- Finance and grant eligibility
Research and Comparison
Brand Reputation
Well-known brands with positive reviews can be a safer bet. But newer companies
may have better prices and service levels. Senior Stairlifts only partners with the best and most reliable stairlift manufacturers.
Customer Reviews
Look for feedback from other users, particularly those with similar needs and
staircases. Speak to users if you can. Check out our reviews.
Cost
While not always indicative of quality, the price can reflect the feature set and durability of the stair lift. To find accurate stairlift costs for 2026, read more here.
Top Straight Stair Lifts Reviewed
Straight stair lifts are the most popular option in UK homes due to their simplicity and affordability.
They are best for:
- Straight staircases
- Fast installation
- Excellent value for money
Why choose a straight stair lift?
- Installed in as little as 24-48 hours
- Minimal disruption to your home
- Smooth, quiet operation
- Strong safety features, including seatbelts and sensors
Straight stair lifts are ideal for users who want a reliable, no-fuss mobility solution.
Some of our most favoured straight stairlifts are:
Top Curved Stair Lifts Reviewed
Curved stair lifts are custom-built to follow the exact shape of your staircase.
Best for:
- Curved or spiral stairs
- Multiple landings
- Unique or narrow layouts
Why choose a curved stair lift?
- Bespoke rail tailored to your staircase
- Smooth travel around bends and corners
- Discreet parking positions
- Works with complex layouts
Although curved stair lifts are more expensive, they provide maximum flexibility and comfort where a straight model isn’t suitable.
Some of our more favoured curved stairlifts are:
Comparison Features and Prices of Leading Models
| Feature | Straight Stair Lift | Curved Stair Lift |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Cost (UK) | Lower | Higher |
| Installation Time | 1–2 days | 2–4 weeks |
| Staircase Type | Straight only | Curved & spiral |
| Customisation | Limited | Fully bespoke |
| Best For | Simplicity & value | Complex stairs |
Consultation and Testing
In-Home Assessment
Many companies offer free home visits to assess your staircase and discuss your
needs. Be sure to take those up and be wary of any company not offer this
service. At Senior Stairlifts, we offer a free home visit and survey, with no pushy salespeople or pressure.
Product Demos
If possible, test the stair lift models in a showroom or ask for a demo at home.
Financial Considerations
Budget
Determine your budget and check for any available financing plans or grants, like the
Disabled Facilities Grant in the UK. At Senior Stairlifts, we are partnered with Snap Finance to be able to offer our customers stairlift finance. We are one of the few stairlift companies to provide finance.
Best Stair Lifts by User Needs
Best for Narrow Stairs
Slimline stair lifts are designed with compact rails and fold-away seats, making them ideal for tighter spaces while keeping stairs usable for others. For a narrow stairlift, we would choose the AccessBDD Flow X.
Best for Heavy Users
Heavy-duty stair lifts offer higher weight capacities, reinforced frames, and wider seats for added comfort and safety. Some of the stairlifts we offer can be upgraded to suit heavier users. Please enquire with our team to find out more.
Best Value Option
Reconditioned stair lifts are fully refurbished, safety-tested, and significantly cheaper than new models. These are ideal for short-term or budget-conscious needs.
Stair Lift Installation & Availability Across the UK
Stair lift installation is available across the entire UK, ensuring homeowners can access safe and reliable mobility solutions wherever they are based. Whether you live in a busy city, a rural village, or a coastal town, professional stairlift services are available nationwide.
Installations are carried out in a wide range of property types, including houses, bungalows, flats, and maisonettes, with solutions tailored to suit both modern and traditional homes. Narrow staircases, multi-storey layouts, and unique property features can all be accommodated with the right stair lift design.
What the Installation Process Involves
The stair lift installation process is designed to be simple, stress-free, and minimally disruptive:
- Free Home Survey – A no-obligation visit to assess your staircase, discuss your needs, and recommend the most suitable stair lift.
- Tailored Recommendation – Advice based on your home layout, mobility requirements, and budget, with clear pricing and no pressure to proceed.
- Professional Installation – Installation by trained engineers, usually completed within a single day for straight stair lifts.
- Ongoing Support & Aftercare – Continued support, servicing options, and assistance should you need adjustments or repairs in the future.
From the initial survey to long-term aftercare, the focus is on providing a safe, reliable, and confidence-boosting solution that helps you move freely around your home.
Final Thoughts About the ‘Best’ Stairlift
The “best” stairlift is the one that is going to meet your needs and fit well into your home. It will be best if it comes from a reputable company with a strong record of quality and service.
It’s advisable to seek professional advice and quotes from multiple suppliers to
compare options. Nothing beats speaking with the helpline to see how each
company responds to your enquiry.
At Senior Stairlifts, we’re here to help you find the safest, most reliable stairlift tailored just for you. If you’re still unsure which options suit you best, get in touch with our friendly team today for free expert advice or to book a no-obligation home assessment. Your comfort, independence, and safety are just a stair lift away.