What is a straight stairlift?
A straight stairlift is the simplest and most affordable type of stairlift. It runs on a single rail fixed to the stair treads of a straight staircase — no bends, no turns, no half-landings. Because the rail is a standard length, straight stairlifts are quicker to manufacture, cheaper to install, and often available within days rather than weeks.
There are several reputable UK manufacturers of straight stairlifts, including Acorn, Bruno, Handicare, Platinum, Stannah and Access BDD (formerly thyssenKrupp). Each offers a slightly different approach to comfort, safety features, and price — which is why an independent comparison matters.
A modern straight stairlift, neatly installed and parked at the top of the stairs.
Is your staircase suitable?
Not every "straight-looking" staircase is actually suitable for a straight stairlift. Here are the four most common scenarios we see during home surveys:
Standard straight staircase
The simplest and cheapest installation. A straight rail runs from top to bottom along one wall.
Straight with a single step
Workable if the user can manage that one step. Bridging platforms are rarely recommended on safety grounds today.
Straight with a fan turn
Not suitable for a straight stairlift. You'll need a curved stairlift with a shaped rail.
Split staircase
Two straight stairlifts can sometimes be fitted, with a short manoeuvre between them. A curved option is usually simpler.
You're not alone — most people aren't. A 15-minute free home survey will give you a definitive answer plus an honest, written quote with no obligation.
What does a straight stairlift actually cost?
A new, fully installed straight stairlift typically starts at around £1,950. Reconditioned and refurbished options can come in lower — sometimes from £1,200 — depending on the supplier and warranty period included. The final price depends on three things: the manufacturer, the staircase length, and the optional features you choose.
One thing that doesn't change the price is paying us to compare manufacturers for you. Our advice is always free and we never take commission from the brand you eventually choose, so the recommendation you get is the one that fits your home and your budget — not ours.
Features explained: what's standard, what's optional
Modern straight stairlifts come with a generous set of standard features. Optional extras are worth considering only if they genuinely solve a problem for you — there's no need to pay for something you'll never use.
Standard Included
- Padded seat and armrests
- Swivel seat for safe dismount at the top
- Safety belt with new-legislation sensor (2023+)
- Obstruction sensors that stop the lift safely
- Battery backup in case of power cut
- Soft-start and soft-stop motion
Optional Extra cost
- Powered swivel seat (one-button rotation)
- Powered hinged rail (folds away at base)
- Wireless remote controls (call/send)
- Heavy-duty version for users over 25 stone
- Outdoor weatherproofing
- Upgraded upholstery and colour options
A powered hinged rail is the most commonly requested optional extra. It folds the base of the rail out of the way so it doesn't obstruct a doorway, hallway, or other users of the stairs. If your staircase ends near a doorway, this one is worth costing in.
Comparing the leading models
These are the most-installed straight stairlifts in UK homes. We work with all of them — and we'll happily tell you when a cheaper option from one brand is genuinely just as good as a more expensive one from another.
Product Photo
Acorn 130
The UK's best-selling straight stairlift. Excellent value, fast installation, and a track record stretching back over two decades. A safe default for most straight staircases.
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Bruno Elan
American-made with a focus on a smooth ride and generous seat dimensions. Often chosen by larger users or anyone who finds compact UK models a tight fit.
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Handicare 1100
A premium-feel straight stairlift with excellent seat ergonomics and several upholstery options. Strong choice if comfort is the top priority.
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Access HomeGlide
Slim and unobtrusive — sits closer to the wall than most rivals. A good option for narrower staircases or homes with multiple stair users.
Read full reviewFor a complete side-by-side breakdown of specs, prices, warranty terms and standard features, see our stairlift comparison table.
The home survey and installation
The free home survey is the most important step — and it's the one we'd never skip. A qualified surveyor visits, measures your stairs accurately, talks through how you'll actually use the lift, and produces a written quote with no obligation to proceed.
Once you've agreed, installation of a straight stairlift typically takes half a day. Many of our partner installers offer next-day fitting in most parts of the UK. Your home is left exactly as it was — there's no structural work involved, the rail fixes to the stair treads themselves rather than to your wall.