Telescopic platform or articulated platform – which is the right choice?

Summary

Telescopic work platforms are ideal for applications withfree access, high altitudeand clear reach. They areeasy to use,stable during the processand mostlycheaperthan articulated platforms. If you can drive directly to the job site without any obstacles, the telescopic platform is the more efficient solution.

You need articulated platforms when access is complicated – for example,Superstructures, projections or winding structures. They offermore flexibility, but aremore expensive and complexThe decision should not depend on price, but onwhether you can drive directly or have to move to the side.

With some types of platforms, the difference is immediately apparent: a scissor lift moves vertically upwards, while a crawler platform moves safely across the terrain – both are immediately understandable.

But what about telescopic boom lifts and articulated boom lifts ? Both can take you to great heights, both appear similarly constructed – and yet small differences determine efficiency, safety, and time savings on the construction site.

In this article, you will learn which stage is the right choice in which situation.

Basic principle: reach vs. flexibility

The main difference between the two designs lies in the construction of the boom – and thus in the principle of movement:

• Telescopic boom lifts feature a straight-extendable boom . They offer a long reach in a straight line and are ideal when you have unobstructed access.
• Articulated platforms have several articulation points in the boom that can be used to bridge obstacles – perfect for narrow or obstructed areas.

Telescopic work platforms – reach and stability

Telescopic boom lifts are the first choice when clear access is available and work must be carried out at a distance. Their linear boom ensures high precision and stability – especially in windy conditions and at maximum height.

Typical areas of application

• Hall and steel construction with open space
• Facade and roof work
• Outdoor industrial and maintenance applications

Technical advantages

• High range in direct line
• Fast movement thanks to linear boom
• Stable position and less fluctuation
• Cheaper rental prices for the same working height

Articulated platforms – mobility and precision

When the direct route to the work area is blocked, articulated platforms come into their own. They can reach over obstacles, swing out sideways, and work in tight spaces – even indoors.

Typical areas of application

• Courtyards and setbacks
• Installation via machines or roof overhangs
• Maintenance in confined or sensitive environments

Technical advantages

• Lateral overlap possible
• High maneuverability in tight spaces
• Quiet and emission-free operation (depending on model)

Direct comparison: AICHI SP 14 vs. GENIE Z-40/23 N RJ

To illustrate the difference in a practical way, we compare two stages from the BIBERGER rental fleet that are often chosen for similar height ranges.

Practice evaluation

• AICHI SP 14 – robust, off-road capable, long range → ideal for outdoor areas.
• GENIE Z-40 RJ – compact, quiet, precise → ideal for use in halls or confined spaces.

Practical examples

Example 1: Gutter replacement on industrial hall

Clear access, straight facade – the AICHI SP 14 is perfect for this. Its 12.7 m reach allows work along the entire front of the hall without relocating the platform.

Example 2: Assembly in a production hall

There's barely any space between machines and pipelines. Thanks to its articulated boom, the GENIE Z-40 RJ reaches the work area over obstacles and operates emission-free.

Avoid common wrong decisions

Many users are too quick to choose "the bigger stage." However, more joints or height don't automatically mean greater efficiency—instead, they often result in higher rental prices and longer setup times. The environment is crucial.

• Articulated platform without obstacles? → Lost time and additional costs.
• Telescopic platform in a narrow yard? → No maneuvering space = standstill.

Decision-making aid in brief

Telescopic platform

1. Free access and plenty of space in front of the building
2. Greater range necessary
3. Rugged terrain or inclines
4. Longer project duration → cheaper

Articulated platform

1. Obstacles must be overcome
2. Indoor spaces or narrow courtyards as a location
3. Quiet, emission-free operation required
4. Precise positioning over roof overhangs

Conclusion

Both types of platforms have their merits: Telescopic platforms excel with their reach, speed, and stability—ideal for large construction sites. Articulated platforms excel with their mobility and safety in tight spaces. It's not the type that matters, but the environment in which you work.

BIBERGER helps you select the right stage – from open-air sites to industrial halls, including transport, instruction, and optional SYSTEM CARD training .

About the author

Martin Biberger

Managing Director

Martin is the founder and managing director of BIBERGER Arbeitsbühnen & Forklifts.

He is responsible for thetechnical areaTogether with his team, he is responsible for thetechnical purchasingthe machines thatFurther development of the machine inventoryand the smooth operation of over 1,500 BIBERGER rental devices.

From many years of experience he knows theStrengths and weaknesses of all device classes, the possibleAreas of applicationand thetechnical possibilities– always with a view to theDevelopment of the entire industryand future innovations.