Articulating Vs. Telescopic Boom Lifts and When to Use Them

Boom lifts are essential machinery in businesses where working at heights is a core part of the job. Be it construction or building maintenance, articulating and telescopic boom lifts provide the lift, stability, and maneuverability that enables workers to complete tasks effectively and safely.  

What Is a Boom Lift? 

Boom lift, or more commonly known as a cherry picker or aerial lift, is one of the forms of mobile elevated work platforms (MEWP) that is designed to raise laborers and tools to hard-to-reach higher places. A boom lift features a hydraulic arm that is foldable, up-raise, and relocatable to perform an array of work at raised elevations. 

• Construction & framing
• Building maintenance 
• Window cleaning 
• Electrical & lighting installation 
• Tree trimming
• Signage installation  
• Inspections and repairs 

The most common types of boom lifts are telescopic and articulating. 

Articulating Boom Lifts (Aka Knuckle Boom) 

Articulating boom lifts consist of a number of sections that flex at various joints, allowing the arm to “articulate” past obstructions. This provides greater flexibility to access tight or enclosed areas. 

Key Features

• Jointed arm design for nimble maneuvering 
• Can reach over and above obstructions 
• Typically has smaller footprint than telescopic models 
• Available in electric and diesel 
• Works best in tight or indoor areas 

Best For

• Indoor maintenance 
• Work in warehouses or factories 
• HVAC or plumbing installations 
• Tight access jobs with obstacles 
• Sign or banner installation in crowded spaces 

Telescopic vs. Articulating Boom Lifts

Power Options: Electric vs. Diesel Boom Lifts 

When choosing a boom lift, one key consideration is the power source. The right option depends on your work environment, space limitations, and project requirements.

Let’s take a look at the key differences between electric and diesel-powered boom lifts:

Electric Boom Lifts

• Quieter, zero-emission operation
• Best for indoor use or sensitive environments 
• Compact and easy to maneuver 

Diesel Boom Lifts

• Higher power for outdoor, rough-terrain work 
• Ideal for long-duration, heavy-duty jobs 
• May require more space and ventilation 

Boom Lift Accessories & Attachments 

Depending on your project needs, boom lifts can be equipped with a range of accessories to improve functionality and safety. Some common attachments and parts include:

• Jib booms for extra articulation and reach

• Non-marking tires for indoor surface protection

• Lighting kits for working in low-light conditions

• Pipe racks and tool trays to help keep tools organized

• Fall protection harnesses for added safety on elevated job

Boom Lift Safety Considerations 

The safety of everyone should always come first when a boom lift is being used. One of the most important practices is to constantly wear a full-body harness while working at heights to prevent falls. 

Take the time to examine the lift thoroughly prior to each use. Check for damage or mechanical malfunction to ensure everything is in order. 

Pay attention to your surroundings and stay clear of overhead power cables, which pose a dangerous electrocution hazard. Be well away from them. 

Use the boom lift only on solid, flat ground. Tipping or loss of control may result from uneven ground, which can put both the operator and others at risk. 

Never overload the platform. Overloading may compromise the stability of the lift and lead to accidents or equipment failure. 

Lastly, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and all local safety regulations. Training and adherence to guidelines are the keys to safe and successful operation. 

Common Boom Lift Applications by Industry 

Boom lifts are widely utilized in numerous industries due to their adaptability and ability to provide secure access to high working areas. 

Boom lifts play a critical role in structural framing, roof construction, and exterior finishing, ensuring that workers can easily reach high, difficult-to-access areas of a building. 

They can also be versatile for window washing, facade maintenance, and gutter and lighting maintenance, allowing crews to easily get the job done on multi-story buildings. 

Finally, in landscaping and tree care, boom lifts are perfectly suited for tree trimming, seasonal lighting installations, and cleanup of jobs at height, especially where ladders or scaffolding would be impractical or unsafe. 

Why Rent Boom Lifts? 

Booming lift rentals offer several advantages over owning—especially for businesses that need flexibility, cost control, and access to consistent, cutting-edge equipment. 

Leasing also gives you access to the latest models and safety features without the high initial cost of purchasing. Whether tackling a large-scale outdoor job or small-scale indoor one, we’re here to help you find the right lift, at the right time, and at a fair price. 

Still Have Questions? 

At Reliable Equipment Rentals, we specialize in the rental of brand-new boom lifts from leading providers like Genie and JLG, with articulating and telescopic options available. In this article, you’ll learn the various types of boom lifts, specialty functions, and what to choose for your task.

Still not sure which boom lift is right for your job? Our team is happy to help. Contact us and we’ll guide you through the rental process with the support you can trust.