Cherry Picker vs. Scissor Lift: Which Is Best for Your Project?
Published: June 24, 2025
Comparing Cherry Pickers and Scissor Lifts: Which Aerial Platform Works Best for Your Job?
Need to choose between a cherry picker and a scissor lift? This expert guide helps you compare key features like outreach, terrain adaptability and lifting capacity so you can make the right call for your next job.
Table of Contents
- 1. What Are Cherry Pickers and Scissor Lifts?
- 2. Key Differences: Functionality, Reach & Terrain
- 3. Choosing the Right Platform for Your Project
- 4. Comparison Table
- 5. Safety & Training: What You Need to Know
- 6. Why Milo Access Platforms?
- 7. Conclusion: What’s Best for Your Job?
What Are Cherry Pickers and Scissor Lifts?
Cherry pickers and scissor lifts are both types of MEWPs (Mobile Elevating Work Platforms), designed to safely raise workers for tasks at height.
A cherry picker, also known as a boom lift, features an articulated or telescopic arm that allows both vertical and horizontal movement, making it ideal for reaching over obstacles.
In contrast, a scissor lift elevates straight up using a crisscrossing mechanism. It typically offers a larger platform and higher weight capacity, but cannot extend horizontally.
Key Differences: Functionality, Reach & Terrain
Let’s look at how the two platforms compare across core features:
Height & Outreach
Cherry pickers can achieve greater height (up to 58m) and horizontal reach, which is critical when working around obstacles like buildings or trees. Scissor lifts, however, move only vertically – suited for jobs directly overhead. 🔗 Check out our cherry picker hire page for more info.
Load Capacity & Platform Size
Scissor lifts shine in load-bearing ability. Their broad platforms can accommodate tools and multiple workers, making them ideal for heavy-duty tasks like installations or maintenance. Cherry pickers offer more flexibility but typically support fewer people and lighter tools.
Terrain Suitability
Cherry pickers (especially 4×4 models) are designed for rough or sloped terrain. Scissor lifts are best for solid, level ground – though rough-terrain versions do exist.
Choosing the Right Platform for Your Project
Rather than just comparing specs, consider your specific site conditions and project goals.
- Tree surgery or telecom maintenance, where reach and precision matter → Cherry Picker
- Indoor work in a warehouse or showroom, with level flooring and high ceilings → Scissor Lift
- A construction site with uneven surfaces, needing access at multiple angles → Cherry Picker (Spider-type or Diesel 4×4)
- Installing ducting, signage or lighting overhead with multiple workers → Scissor Lift
This context-based thinking will make your decision easier and more accurate.
Choose a Cherry Picker when:
- You need to reach over obstacles or hard-to-access areas.
- The ground is uneven or includes elevation differences (use spider models).
- Portability and rapid repositioning are priorities.
Choose a Scissor Lift when:
- You need to carry tools/materials or multiple workers.
- Working directly overhead on stable, flat surfaces.
- Indoor use where low emissions are required.
- Simplicity and efficiency in vertical lifts.
🔗 There are other types of access platforms too. Read our guide on How to Choose the Right Access Platform for Your Project
Cherry Picker vs. Scissor Lift Comparison Table
| Feature | Cherry Picker | Scissor Lift |
|---|---|---|
| Vertical Reach | Up to ~58 m | Up to ~34 m |
| Horizontal Outreach | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Load Capacity | Lower (~1–2 people) | Higher (crew + tools) |
| Terrain Compatibility | Uneven & rough-friendly | Needs flat ground |
| Platform Size | Compact basket | Large deck |
| Power Options | Diesel / Electric / Hybrid | Electric / Diesel |
| Ideal Environment | Maintenance, tree work, telecom, film | Warehousing, painting, cladding |
Using either platform safely requires proper training and certification. In the UK, IPAF training is mandatory:
- Cherry Pickers: Category 1b (static boom) or 3b (mobile boom)
- Scissor Lifts: Category 3a
You’ll also need to follow HSE guidelines: wear harnesses, observe wind limits (~28 mph), and use outriggers/spreader plates when necessary.
Why Milo Access Platforms?
At Milo Access Platforms, we offer expert advice and a broad fleet to suit every access need.
Whether you need a compact electric scissor lift, like the JCB S1930E, for indoor work or a driveable 4×4 articulating boom lift for a sloped site, we’ll match you with the right machine.
Our fleet includes:
- Rough Terrain Scissor Lifts
- Articulating Boom Lifts
- 4 Wheel Drive Boom Lifts
- Van-mounted Cherry Pickers
Plus, we provide accessories like harnesses and stabilisers to keep your team safe on-site.
What’s Best for Your Job?
If your worksite is straightforward, flat, and the goal is vertical reach with more people and tools on the platform, a scissor lift may be ideal.
But if your project needs outreach over obstacles or takes place on uneven ground, hiring a cherry picker is your best bet.
Not sure? Contact our expert team – we’ll help you make the safest and most cost-effective choice.