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Key Takeaways
- A straight stairlift is significantly cheaper than a curved one, often costing £1,800–£3,000 less.
- Curved stairlifts are bespoke: their rails are custom-manufactured and tailored to your staircase, which drives up both equipment and installation costs.
- The final price depends on the staircase’s complexity, the model, features, and whether you choose a new or reconditioned stairlift.
- For simple, straight staircases, a straight rail stairlift often gives the best balance of cost and convenience; for staircases with bends, turns, or landings, a curved stairlift is sometimes the only safe/reliable option.
Cost Comparison: Straight vs Curved Stairlifts
Here’s a breakdown of typical cost ranges (as of 2026) for straight and curved stairlifts in the UK:
What this means in practice:
- A new straight stairlift is often £2,000–£3,000 cheaper than a curved one.
- Curved stairlifts tend to sit at the upper end of the price range, and the complexity adds to the cost.
- If your staircase is straight, a straight stairlift can save thousands while providing adequate functionality.
Why the Price Difference: Key Factors
1. Rail Design and Manufacturing
- Straight rails are mass-produced in standard sizes; installers simply cut them to the right length.
- Curved rails must be custom-measured and manufactured to match every bend, landing, or turn of your staircase. This bespoke manufacturing adds substantial cost.
2. Complexity of Installation
- Installing a straight stairlift is relatively simple: fewer components, a standard rail, and minimal adjustments, leading to lower labour costs.
- Curved stairlifts require more skilled engineering, more labour hours, and careful alignment to ensure safe operation, which drives up installation costs.
3. Customisation & Safety Features
- Curved stairlifts often require extra features: powered swivel seats, custom footrests, sensors, and bespoke rail segments, all adding to the base cost.
- Straight stairlifts tend to have fewer bespoke components, making them more affordable out of the box.
4. Demand, Supply & Resale Value
- Straight stairlifts are easier to supply, refurbish, and resell because of their standardised parts. This helps keep their cost lower.
- Curved stairlifts are bespoke to a staircase; their resale value is often lower (or zero) if moved to an incompatible staircase, which reflects in their higher upfront price.
What You Should Expect as a Buyer
If you have a straight staircase
- A straight stairlift is almost always the most cost-effective and sensible choice.
- Expect full installation and functionality at a lower cost.
- Real-world 2025 budgets: roughly £1,800–£3,000 for the stairlift, plus modest installation fees.
If your staircase is curved / has landings / is complex
- A curved stairlift is likely the only safe, practical choice.
- Budget accordingly, you should expect to pay £4,000–£8,000+ for a new curved model.
- Consider whether a reconditioned curved model or alternative mobility solution (e.g. moving downstairs) might suit your budget.
- Installation & labour: For curved stairlifts, the installation complexity significantly increases the cost.
- Upgrades & custom features: Power swivels, heavier-duty motors, turning rails, and extra safety features can raise the price of any lift.
- Reconditioned / second-hand stairlifts: Can be cheaper, a straight reconditioned lift may start from under £1,000 in some cases.
- Long-term value and resale: Straight lifts tend to hold value better. Curved lifts are bespoke; resale or transfer is often impractical.
- Suitability and safety: Cost should be weighed against usability; a straight lift on a curved staircase is not safe, and the extra cost of a curved lift may be essential for secure mobility.
Which Should You Choose: Straight or Curved?
| Scenario / Priority | Best Option |
| Your staircase is straight, your budget is limited, and you want a simple & quick installation | Straight stairlift |
| The staircase has bends, landings, and turns that need full stair coverage | Curved stairlift (only safe option) |
| You want resale potential or plan to move house | Straight stairlift (better resale) |
| Budget allows, and you need maximum flexibility and safety | Curved stairlift (tailored solution) |
Conclusion
The difference between straight and curved stairlifts goes beyond the shape of the rail; it extends to cost, complexity, and long-term value. If your staircase is straight, a straight stairlift will almost always offer the best value for money. If your staircase is curved or has landings, a curved stairlift may be more expensive, but often it’s the only safe and practical solution.
When shopping, your best bet is to:
- Match the stairlift type to your staircase layout.
- Get multiple quotes.
- Factor in installation, features, and long-term maintenance.
- Consider reconditioned straight lifts if budget is a concern.