What’s the Difference Between a Home Elevator and a Vertical Platform Lift?

When it comes to making your home more accessible, home elevators and vertical platform lifts (VPLs) are two popular options—but they serve different needs and have distinct features.

Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you decide which one is right for your home.

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🏠 Home Elevator

A home elevator is a permanent, enclosed lift system that travels vertically between floors inside (or sometimes outside) your home.

✅ Key Features:

• Fully enclosed cab (like a traditional elevator)

• Travels between two or more floors

• Installed in a shaft or hoistway

• Operated by push-button or touchscreen controls

• Quiet, smooth ride

• Customizable with wood panels, lighting, glass doors, etc.

🎯 Best For:

• Multilevel homes

• People who want a stylish and permanent solution

• Those looking to future-proof their home for aging in place

💡 Bonus:

At EZ Able®, you'll find elegant home elevator options that look like a design feature—not a medical device.

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🛗 Vertical Platform Lift (VPL)

A vertical platform lift can be either an open-air or a cab elevator. It's a platform that moves vertically, typically used to travel one story or less.

✅ Key Features:

• Open platform (with safety rails and gate)

• Usually travels 4–6 feet (some models up to 14 feet)

• Commonly installed outside or in garages

• Often used to reach a porch, deck, or split-level entry

• Less expensive and easier to install than elevators.  Therefore, many people choose a VPL with a cab, which mimics the look and feel of a full elevator. 
  

• Constant Pressure Control:  

  To make the Vertical Platform Lift (VPL) move, the rider or attendant must press and hold the button the entire time. The lift will stop if the button is released.

🎯 Best For:

• Wheelchair users who need access to a porch or entryway

• Homes with limited indoor space

• Budget-conscious solutions for one-story elevation

💡 Bonus:

EZ Able® offers VPLs from trusted brands that are durable, weather-resistant, and reliable—ideal for indoor or outdoor use.

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🔍 Quick Comparison Table:

Feature	Home Elevator	Vertical Platform Lift (VPL)
Enclosure	Fully enclosed cab	Open or Closed platform with safety rails
Travel Distance	2+ floors	1 floor (typically 4–6 feet)
Indoor/Outdoor Use	Primarily indoor	Indoor or outdoor
Custom Design Options	High – finishes, lighting, doors	Minimal
Installation Time	Longer (construction required)	Faster installation
Cost	Higher	More affordable
Ideal For	Long-term accessibility, aesthetics	Wheelchair access, porches, garages

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Which One Is Right for You?

• Choose a home elevator if you want a seamless, enclosed ride between multiple floors, especially if you’re remodeling or building a forever home.

• Choose a vertical platform lift if you need quick, practical wheelchair access to a raised porch, deck, entry, or home with 2 stories.

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Still not sure? Contact EZ Able® and our experts will help you choose the safest, smartest, and most beautiful accessibility solution for your home.

Shop smart. Live easier—with EZ Able®.