★★★★★ 4.4/5
Best Stair Lift Companies
Acorn Stairlifts are installed somewhere in the world every eight minutes, every single day of the year. Acorn has been striving to create new benchmarks in quality and innovation for the stairlift industry since its formation in 1992.
Savaria Stair Lift Review
Savaria, a company dedicated to enhancing mobility and accessibility, brings a sophisticated touch to stairlifts and home accessibility solutions across the United States. With a focus on quality, style, and customization, Savaria understands the importance of preserving the beauty of one’s home while adding essential accessibility. Their stairlifts are engineered for safety, smooth operation, and quiet functionality, allowing users to navigate their homes effortlessly.
Savaria’s stairlift collection includes options for straight and curved staircases, as well as outdoor models, offering solutions for nearly every staircase design. Their models—such as the sleek K2 and the elegant Stairfriend—blend modern design with practical features like compact rails, folding seats, and intuitive controls. Each model is thoughtfully crafted, with options for upholstery and finishes to complement your home’s decor, ensuring that you never have to compromise on style or function.
Choosing a Savaria stairlift means embracing both convenience and elegance, with a commitment to quality that provides peace of mind. Whether it’s for a grand staircase or a cozy entryway, Savaria stairlifts offer graceful, reliable mobility for a life lived beautifully at home.
Overview
Savaria, founded in 1979 in Laval, Quebec, began as a company focused on manufacturing accessibility solutions, initially specializing in wheelchair lifts. Recognizing the growing need for mobility assistance, Savaria quickly expanded its product range to include home elevators, commercial lifts, stairlifts, and vehicle lifts. The company’s dedication to accessibility, combined with its commitment to quality and innovation, helped it gain a strong foothold in North America and beyond.
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Savaria experienced significant growth and became a publicly traded company, further expanding its product offerings and international reach. In 2005, it acquired Concord Elevator, a leading manufacturer of home elevators, which positioned Savaria as one of North America’s largest and most comprehensive providers of accessibility solutions. This acquisition brought more advanced technology and design capabilities, enabling Savaria to cater to both residential and commercial markets with a range of customizable products.
Today, Savaria operates globally, with manufacturing facilities in Canada, the United States, and China. Their product line includes stairlifts (such as the K2 and Stairfriend models), home and commercial elevators, wheelchair lifts, and vehicle accessibility modifications. Known for their focus on safety, durability, and customization, Savaria’s products are designed to meet various accessibility needs, allowing people to maintain independence and mobility within their homes and communities.
With over 40 years in the industry, Savaria has established itself as a leader in accessible mobility solutions, driven by a mission to make life easier for individuals with mobility challenges, so they can enjoy their homes and environments comfortably and safely.
Products offered By Savaria
Each of Savaria’s stairlifts combines safety, comfort, and durability, designed with user needs in mind. The variety of models ensures that Savaria can cater to straight and curved, indoor and outdoor staircases, providing accessible solutions for a wide range of homes and settings.
K2 Straight Stairlift
For straight staircases (indoor only).
The K2 is Savaria’s most compact and budget-friendly model, designed to fit straight indoor staircases. It features a slim, foldable rail and a comfortable padded seat that folds up to save space when not in use. The K2 is easy to operate, with a simple toggle control and wireless remotes, making it a straightforward solution for those who need basic, reliable mobility assistance.
The K2 Straight Stairlift is a reliable, space-efficient choice for those needing a straightforward, affordable solution for straight indoor staircases. Its compact design, safety features, and ease of use make it ideal for users looking for a practical stairlift that doesn’t take up much space. However, for those needing more advanced features or higher weight capacity, other models may be more suitable.
Features
- Compact Rail Design: The rail is one of the slimmest on the market, allowing for maximum stairway clearance, ideal for narrow stairs.
- Foldable Seat, Footrest, and Armrests: All components fold up neatly, conserving space on the stairway when the lift is not in use.
- Battery-Powered Operation: Runs on rechargeable batteries, ensuring continued use during power outages.
- Simple Toggle Controls: The toggle control on the armrest is easy to use and accessible for users with limited hand mobility.
- Wireless Remote Controls: Includes two remote controls for convenient calling and sending of the lift.
- Safety Sensors: Built-in sensors on the footrest and carriage detect obstacles, stopping the lift automatically to prevent accidents.
- Quick Installation: Designed for fast installation, typically within a few hours, reducing disruption to the home.
- Weight Capacity: Supports up to 300 lbs, suitable for most users.
Pros
- Space-Saving Design: The slim rail and foldable seat components make it an excellent choice for narrow or high-traffic staircases, maximizing usable space.
- Affordable and Reliable: The K2 is Savaria’s budget-friendly model, offering dependable performance without unnecessary frills.
- Battery Backup for Reliability: Battery operation means the lift can still be used during power outages, providing peace of mind.
- Easy-to-Use Controls: The toggle control and wireless remotes make it user-friendly and accessible for those with limited hand mobility.
- Quick Installation: With a straightforward design, it’s quick to install, typically within a few hours, minimizing disruption.
- Safety-Focused: Safety sensors and a secure locking mechanism ensure a smooth and protected ride.
Cons
- Limited to Straight Staircases: The K2 is designed only for straight indoor stairs, making it unsuitable for curved or complex stair configurations.
- Basic Features Only: As an entry-level model, it lacks some of the premium features found in higher-end stairlifts, such as a powered swivel seat or customizable upholstery.
- Lower Weight Capacity Compared to Some Models: With a 300 lbs weight capacity, it may not be suitable for users who need a higher-capacity stairlift.
- Indoor Use Only (for this model): While there’s an outdoor version, this specific K2 model is for indoor use and isn’t weatherproofed.
K2 Plus Stairlift
For straight staircases (indoor only).
The K2 Plus is a high-capacity version of the K2, supporting up to 400 lbs, designed for users who require extra support. It has a similar compact rail design and includes an ergonomic seat with improved cushioning. This model is particularly well-suited for those who want added durability and comfort on a straight stairway while enjoying the same space-saving features as the original K2.
The K2 Plus Stairlift is an excellent choice for individuals needing additional weight capacity and support on straight indoor staircases. Its compact, space-saving design, combined with a comfortable, wide seat and safety features, make it ideal for those seeking both reliability and comfort. However, it may not be the best fit for users who require more advanced features, customization, or outdoor use.
Features
- Straight Staircase Compatibility: Designed exclusively for straight indoor staircases.
- High Weight Capacity: Supports up to 400 lbs, making it suitable for users who need additional support.
- Compact Rail Design: Slim and space-efficient, allowing for more stairway clearance and easy access.
- Foldable Seat, Footrest, and Armrests: Components fold up to save space on the staircase when the lift isn’t in use.
- Battery-Powered Operation: Runs on rechargeable batteries, enabling use during power outages.
- Ergonomic, Extra-Wide Seat: Provides added comfort and support, especially for users needing a bit more space or cushion.
- Safety Sensors: Built-in sensors on the footrest and carriage detect obstacles, automatically stopping the lift to avoid accidents.
- Easy-to-Use Toggle and Wireless Remotes: Toggle control on the armrest and two wireless remotes allow for simple operation.
- Quick Installation: Designed for straightforward installation, usually completed within a few hours.
Pros
- High Weight Capacity: With a 400 lbs capacity, it provides a safe, comfortable solution for a wider range of users who need additional support.
- Space-Saving Design: The compact rail and foldable components maximize stairway space, making it ideal for narrow or high-traffic staircases.
- Reliable Power Backup: Battery-powered operation ensures the lift remains functional during power outages, providing peace of mind.
- Comfortable, Supportive Seat: The extra-wide ergonomic seat offers enhanced comfort, ideal for users who need a larger seating area or greater support.
- User-Friendly Controls: The simple toggle control and wireless remotes make it accessible and easy to operate, even for users with limited hand mobility.
- Fast Installation: Designed for efficient installation, allowing users to benefit from the lift with minimal home disruption.
Cons
- Limited to Straight Staircases: The K2 Plus is only suitable for straight staircases, so it won’t work for curved or complex stair configurations.
- Basic Design and Fewer Customization Options: As a more utilitarian model, it doesn’t offer the extensive customization or upholstery options available in higher-end models.
- Indoor Use Only: The K2 Plus is intended for indoor use and lacks weatherproofing for outdoor staircases.
- Higher Cost than Standard K2 Model: Due to its increased weight capacity and enhanced seat design, the K2 Plus may be more expensive than the standard K2 model.
Stairfriend Curved Stairlift
For curved staircases (indoor only).
The Stairfriend is Savaria’s solution for curved staircases, featuring a custom-made rail that fits the unique contours of each staircase. It offers a smooth and quiet ride, with soft start-stop technology and a foldable seat to maximize stairway space. The Stairfriend provides a luxurious, comfortable experience, ideal for users needing reliable accessibility on more complex stair configurations.
The Stairfriend Curved Stairlift is a perfect solution for individuals needing accessibility on complex indoor staircases with curves or multiple landings. Its custom fit, comfortable design, and focus on safety make it a reliable, attractive choice for curved stair configurations. However, it requires a greater investment in time and cost compared to straight stairlift models.
Notice
Please note that the Stairfriend 23 (below) replaces the original Stairfriend for most applications
Features
- Custom Curved Rail: Custom-built rail to match the exact shape and contours of curved or multi-landing staircases, ensuring a smooth fit.
- High Weight Capacity: Supports up to 350 lbs, providing a secure and stable solution for a wide range of users.
- Smooth, Quiet Operation: Equipped with soft start-stop technology for a gentle, seamless ride around curves.
- Ergonomic, Padded Seat: Comfortable padded seat designed for user comfort on longer staircases.
- Foldable Seat, Footrest, and Armrests: Components fold up to maximize stairway space when the lift isn’t in use.
- Battery-Powered Operation: Runs on rechargeable batteries, ensuring uninterrupted use even during power outages.
- Safety Sensors: Includes sensors to detect obstacles, automatically pausing the lift to prevent accidents.
- Swivel Seat for Safe Entry and Exit: Seat swivels at the top and bottom of the staircase for easy, safe boarding and disembarking.
- User-Friendly Controls: Features a joystick control and wireless remote controls for simple, convenient operation.
- Customizable Upholstery and Rail Colors: Options to match home decor and personal preferences.
Pros
- Custom Fit for Curved Stairs: Designed to fit complex stair configurations, including curves, spirals, and multi-landings, providing reliable accessibility for intricate staircases.
- High Weight Capacity: With a 350 lbs capacity, the Stairfriend can support a broad range of users safely.
- Smooth, Quiet Ride: Soft start-stop technology and quiet operation make it comfortable and unobtrusive for household use.
- Space-Saving Design: Foldable seat, footrest, and armrests help keep the stairway accessible for others when the lift is not in use.
- Reliable During Power Outages: Battery-powered operation ensures functionality even during power failures, providing peace of mind.
- Customizable Aesthetic Options: The ability to choose rail colors and upholstery options allows users to blend the lift seamlessly with their home decor.
- Safety-Focused: Safety sensors, a seatbelt, and a swivel seat provide enhanced security and confidence during use.
Cons
- Higher Cost Due to Customization: The custom-built curved rail and advanced features make it more expensive than straight stairlift models.
- Longer Installation Time: The custom rail requires precise measurements and manufacturing, leading to a longer installation process.
- Indoor Use Only: The Stairfriend is intended for indoor staircases and is not weatherproofed for outdoor applications.
- Bulkier Appearance: Due to the custom rail and added features, it may appear bulkier than straight stairlift models.
Stairfriend 23 Curved Stairlift
For curved staircases (indoor only).
The Stairfriend 23 Curved Stairlift is Savaria’s premium solution for complex, curved staircases, including those with multiple landings or spiral designs. With a high weight capacity of 350 lbs, ergonomic padded seating, foldable components, and soft start-stop technology, it provides a safe, comfortable ride. Battery-powered operation ensures reliability during power outages, while user-friendly controls and customization options for upholstery and rail colors make it both accessible and seamlessly integrated with home decor. Ideal for those seeking dependable mobility, the Stairfriend 23 is a stylish and functional choice, though its custom design may require a greater investment in time and cost.
Features
- Custom Curved Rail: Tailored to the exact shape of curved or multi-landing staircases, ensuring a precise and secure fit.
- High Weight Capacity: Supports up to 350 lbs, suitable for a wide range of users.
- Quiet, Smooth Operation: Soft start-stop technology allows for a smooth, comfortable ride around curves and turns.
- Ergonomic Padded Seat: Comfortable, padded seat designed for extended use on longer staircases.
- Foldable Seat, Footrest, and Armrests: These components fold up to keep the stairway clear when the lift isn’t in use.
- Battery-Powered Operation: Operates on rechargeable batteries, ensuring use even during power outages.
- Safety Sensors: Equipped with sensors to detect obstacles, automatically stopping the lift to prevent accidents.
- Swivel Seat for Safe Entry/Exit: The seat swivels at the top and bottom of the staircase, allowing safe boarding and disembarking.
- User-Friendly Controls: Includes a joystick control on the armrest and wireless remote controls for ease of use.
- Customizable Upholstery and Rail Colors: Options for upholstery and rail colors allow for customization to match home decor.
Pros
- Custom Fit for Complex Staircases: Ideal for staircases with curves, spirals, or multiple landings, providing safe and smooth accessibility.
- High Weight Capacity: With a 350 lbs limit, the Stairfriend 23 can safely accommodate a variety of users.
- Quiet and Comfortable Ride: Soft start-stop technology ensures a gentle, unobtrusive ride, making it suitable for daily use.
- Space-Saving Design: Foldable seat, footrest, and armrests help keep the stairway accessible when not in use.
- Reliable in Power Outages: Battery operation allows for uninterrupted use, even during power failures, offering peace of mind.
- Customizable Aesthetics: Custom options for upholstery and rail colors allow the stairlift to blend seamlessly with home decor.
- Safety-Focused: Features such as safety sensors, seatbelt, and swivel seat provide enhanced security during use.
Cons
- Higher Cost Due to Customization: The custom-made rail and advanced features make it more expensive than straight stairlift models.
- Longer Installation Time: The custom rail requires precise measurements and manufacturing, which can extend the installation timeline.
- Indoor Use Only: Designed exclusively for indoor use, making it unsuitable for outdoor staircases.
- Bulkier Appearance: Due to the custom rail and durable features, it may appear bulkier than standard straight stairlifts.
K2 Outdoor Stairlift
For straight outdoor staircases.
The K2 Outdoor model is built to withstand the elements, with weather-resistant materials, a sealed motor, and a durable, protective cover. It is perfect for outdoor staircases leading to porches, decks, or entryways. The K2 Outdoor offers all the features of the indoor K2, including a foldable design, safety sensors, and user-friendly controls, adapted for outdoor use.
The K2 Outdoor Stairlift is an ideal choice for users needing reliable, weather-resistant access to outdoor areas. With its high weight capacity, user-friendly features, and space-saving design, it provides safe and convenient mobility in all seasons. However, its higher cost and maintenance needs may be considerations for users with more moderate outdoor conditions.
Features
- Outdoor Straight Staircase Compatibility: Designed specifically for straight outdoor staircases, providing access to porches, decks, and entryways.
- Weather-Resistant Materials: Built with durable, weather-resistant components to withstand rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
- Protective Cover Included: Comes with a weather-resistant cover to shield the lift when not in use, extending its life.
- Marine-Grade Vinyl Upholstery: Seat is covered with marine-grade vinyl, which resists fading, moisture, and damage from sun exposure.
- Battery-Powered Operation: Runs on rechargeable batteries, allowing uninterrupted use even during power outages.
- Foldable Seat, Footrest, and Armrests: Foldable components help keep the stairway clear when the lift is not in use.
- Safety Sensors: Includes sensors to detect obstacles on the stairs, automatically pausing the lift to prevent accidents.
- User-Friendly Toggle Controls and Remote: Simple toggle control on the armrest and two wireless remotes for convenient operation.
- High Weight Capacity: Supports up to 350 lbs, making it suitable for a wide range of users.
Pros
- Built for All Weather Conditions: Constructed with weather-resistant materials and marine-grade vinyl, it is designed to endure outdoor elements, from sun to snow.
- Protective Cover for Added Durability: The included cover shields the lift from the elements when not in use, preserving its functionality and appearance.
- Reliable Power Backup: Battery-powered operation ensures that the lift remains functional during power outages, providing peace of mind.
- Space-Saving Design: Foldable seat, footrest, and armrests keep the stairway accessible when the lift is not in use.
- User-Friendly: Easy-to-use toggle control and wireless remotes make it accessible for users of all mobility levels.
- High Weight Capacity: With a 350 lbs capacity, it provides a safe solution for a broad range of users.
Cons
- Limited to Straight Staircases: Designed solely for straight outdoor staircases, making it incompatible with curved or multi-landing stairways.
- Higher Price Due to Weatherproofing: The specialized outdoor design and materials may make it more costly than indoor models.
- Requires Periodic Maintenance: Outdoor use may necessitate more frequent maintenance, especially in areas with extreme weather conditions.
- Bulkier Appearance: The durable materials and protective cover may give it a more utilitarian, bulkier appearance than indoor models.
Costs
Savaria’s stairlift models, with pricing in USD:
- K2 Straight Stairlift: Approximately $2,500 – $3,500
- Savaria’s most budget-friendly model for straight indoor staircases.
- K2 Plus Stairlift: Approximately $3,500 – $4,500
- Designed for straight staircases with a higher weight capacity of up to 400 lbs.
- Stairfriend /Stairfriend 23 Curved Stairlift: Approximately $9,000 – $15,000
- Custom-built for curved indoor staircases, priced higher due to the custom rail.
- K2 Outdoor Stairlift: Approximately $3,500 – $5,500
- Outdoor version of the K2, built with weather-resistant materials for straight outdoor staircases.
These prices are estimates, as actual costs may vary depending on staircase specifics, installation complexity, and optional add-ons. For exact pricing, an in-home assessment by Savaria or an authorized dealer is recommended.
Comparison Chart
| Model | Stair Type | Starting Price (USD) | Primary Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| K2 Straight Stairlift | Straight Indoor | $2,500 – $3,500 | Compact rail, foldable seat, footrest, and armrests, battery-powered, safety sensors | Affordable, compact stairlift for straight indoor staircases |
| K2 Plus Stairlift | Straight Indoor | $3,500 – $4,500 | High weight capacity (400 lbs), ergonomic seat, foldable, battery-powered, safety sensors | Straight staircases needing higher weight capacity and enhanced comfort |
| Stairfriend 23 Curved Stairlift | Curved Indoor | $9,000 – $15,000 | Custom curved rail, padded seat, foldable, soft start-stop, battery-powered, safety sensors | Complex curved staircases with custom fit requirements |
| K2 Outdoor Stairlift | Straight Outdoor | $3,500 – $5,500 | Weather-resistant materials, marine-grade vinyl seat, foldable, battery-powered, safety sensors | Outdoor straight staircases needing weather-resistant accessibility |
Ratings
Seniors Bulletin Rating
4.4 Stars
★★★★★ 4.4/5
Summary
Savaria stairlifts are an excellent choice for individuals seeking reliable, stylish, and accessible solutions tailored to both indoor and outdoor staircases. With over 40 years of experience, Savaria combines advanced engineering with thoughtful design to meet a wide range of mobility needs. From the compact and budget-friendly K2 for straight stairs to the custom-fit Stairfriend 23 for complex curved staircases, Savaria stairlifts are built to provide safety, comfort, and peace of mind.
Each model is crafted with user-friendly controls, foldable components for space-saving, and essential safety features like battery backup and obstruction sensors. Outdoor models, like the K2 Outdoor, feature weather-resistant materials for reliable performance in various climates, making Savaria stairlifts suitable for nearly every home configuration. Customization options for upholstery and rail colors allow these lifts to blend seamlessly with home decor, adding both function and style.
Choosing a Savaria stairlift means investing in independence and convenience without sacrificing aesthetics. For those looking to stay in the homes they love with ease and elegance, Savaria stairlifts offer a trusted, well-crafted solution.
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