Skip to content
Consultation
← All news
What lift is better: hydraulic or electric?

What lift is better: hydraulic or electric?

The choice between a hydraulic and an electric lift depends on the requirements of a particular building, the available budget, technical conditions and operating priorities. Both types of lift equipment have their own advantages and limitations, so understanding their key features helps determine the most suitable solution for a multi-storey residential building, office or industrial facility.

Hydraulic lifts: features and advantages

Hydraulic lifts operate using a hydraulic cylinder that raises the lift cabin through fluid pressure. This type of system provides smooth movement and reliable operation.

Key characteristics of hydraulic goods and passenger lifts:

  • Load capacity and speed. Hydraulic lifts typically offer load capacities of up to 5,000 kg and are suitable for low- and mid-rise buildings of up to around 6-8 floors. Their travel speed is generally up to 1 m/s, making them less suitable for high-rise buildings.
  • Easy installation. Hydraulic lifts do not require a large machine room, as the hydraulic pump and tank can be installed in a compact technical space or, depending on the system design, close to the lift shaft. This makes integration easier in buildings with limited available space.
  • Smooth travel. The hydraulic system allows the lift cabin to move smoothly without sudden jerks, improving passenger comfort and reducing mechanical stress on components.
  • Reliability during power outages. Hydraulic lifts can be equipped with an emergency lowering system that brings the lift cabin to a nearby or lower floor using a backup power source, which can be especially useful where the electricity supply is unstable.

Advantages of Ukrainian-made hydraulic lifts:

  • High load capacity, making them well suited to goods-passenger and goods transportation applications.
  • Lower initial cost compared with some types of electric lifts.
  • Relatively simple construction, which can make maintenance and repairs easier.

Disadvantages:

  • Higher energy consumption due to the operation of the hydraulic pump.
  • Limitations in terms of building height and travel speed.
  • The need to monitor and periodically service the hydraulic fluid, which can increase maintenance costs.

Hydraulic lifts are particularly suitable for low-rise buildings where high load capacity and compact equipment are important, such as shopping centres, healthcare facilities or industrial buildings.

Electric lifts: features and advantages

Electric, or traction, lifts operate using an electric motor that moves the lift cabin through a system of suspension ropes and a counterweight. They are among the most common lift solutions for multi-storey buildings.

Key characteristics:

  • Load capacity and speed. Electric lifts are available in a wide range of load capacities, from 320 to 2,000 kg and more, and can reach speeds of up to 2.5 m/s or higher, making them suitable for multi-storey and high-rise buildings.
  • Energy efficiency. Modern electric lifts can be equipped with regenerative drives that return part of the generated energy to the electrical grid under certain operating and braking conditions, helping reduce overall energy consumption.
  • Versatility. They are suitable for a wide range of buildings, from multi-storey residential developments to office centres, hotels and commercial properties.
  • Durability. Traction systems are designed for long-term operation when regular maintenance is carried out and wear components are replaced when required.

Advantages of electric passenger and goods lifts:

  • High travel speed and suitability for multi-storey and high-rise buildings.
  • High energy efficiency thanks to modern technologies, including gearless drives.
  • Extensive customisation options, including a wide range of lift cabin designs and additional features such as intelligent control systems.

Disadvantages:

  • Higher initial installation cost, particularly for modern gearless systems.
  • Some models require a machine room or dedicated space for equipment, although modern solutions are also available without a separate machine room.
  • More complex installation and maintenance compared with hydraulic systems.

Electric lifts are an optimal choice for multi-storey residential buildings, business centres and high-rise properties where high speed, energy efficiency and intensive operation are required.

Euroformat, a lift manufacturer, offers a wide range of hydraulic and electric lifts designed to meet Ukrainian and European requirements and standards. Contact us for a consultation, and our specialists will provide more information about the available range, technical characteristics and key features of the equipment.