Scissor Lift vs 2 Post Lift

✂️ 2 Post Lift vs Scissor Lift – What’s Right for You?

If you're shopping for a car lift, you might be stuck deciding between a scissor lift and a 2 post lift. Both are solid choices depending on what you're trying to do — but they’re very different when it comes to setup, lifting power, and working space.

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences so you can figure out which one fits your garage, your budget, and your needs.

🏗️ What’s the Difference?

2 post lifts are the go-to in pro shops and serious home garages. They use two upright columns with arms that reach under your vehicle.

Scissor lifts use a set of crisscrossing arms that raise your car straight up from underneath — kind of like a jack but stronger and more stable.

🛠️ 2 Post Lift – Pros & Cons 👉 Shop 2 Post Lifts

✅ Pros:

• Full access to the undercarriage
• Higher lift height — you can stand underneath
• Takes up less floor space when stored
• Ideal for suspension, transmission, and exhaust work
• Handles heavy vehicles with ease
• Built for long-term shop use

❌ Cons:

• Needs professional install or serious DIY chops
• Requires thick, strong concrete (at least 4")
• Permanent once it’s in
• Costs more upfront
• Requires ceiling height of 10 ft or more
  • Check out our low ceiling car lifts

🔧 Scissor Lift – Pros & Cons 👉 Shop Scissor Lifts

✅ Pros:

• Compact and easy to store
• Portable models can be rolled away
• Less expensive than 2-post lifts
• Fast setup and takedown
• Works in low-ceiling garages
• Great for brakes, tires, oil changes

❌ Cons:

• Limited access to center of vehicle
• Lower lift height — hard to stand under
• Some parts of the underside may be blocked
• Not great for heavy mechanical jobs
• Can be less stable with very heavy vehicles

🔍 When a 2 Post Lift Makes Sense:

• Engine removals or installs
• Transmission swaps
• Full exhaust work
• Suspension overhauls
• Brake line replacements
• Rust or frame repairs
• Shops that need walk-under access
• Heavier vehicles (trucks, SUVs, vans)

⚡ When a Scissor Lift Is the Better Option:

• Quick oil changes
• Tire rotations and brake jobs
• Light suspension work
• Low-ceiling garages
• Mobile service setups
• Temporary or shared garages
• Jobs that don’t need full undercarriage access
• Budget builds without permanent installs

🧰 Final Thoughts

Choosing a scissor vs 2 post lift really comes down to what you’re working on. If you need full undercarriage access and plan to do major repairs, go with a 2 post lift. If you want something compact and easy to move, a scissor lift might be all you need.

Either way — pick the lift that fits your garage, your projects, and your price range. 👍

See Also:

• Asymmetric vs Symmetric 2 Post Lifts
• 4 Post Lift vs 2 Post Lift