If you’re choosing between a portable car lift and a full-size post lift, the right answer depends less on budget and more on how you plan to use the lift day to day. Space, installation constraints, type of work, and long-term expectations all play a role. While both lift types raise vehicles safely, they solve very different problems.
This guide explains the real-world differences so you can decide which approach fits your garage or workshop.
What Is Considered a Portable Car Lift?
A portable car lift is designed to be moved, stored, or repositioned without being permanently fixed to the floor. At Lift Giant, the LGX35 Mid Rise Mobile Car Scissor Lift is the only portable lift in the range.
The LGX35 sits flat on the floor with a closed height of just 110mm, requires no floor anchoring, and includes a mobility kit as standard. It runs from a normal 240V supply and lifts up to 3500kg, which is higher than many entry-level fixed lifts.
Why this matters: Portability allows one lift to serve multiple bays or be stored when not in use.
What Defines a Full-Size Post Lift?
Full-size post lifts include 2-post and 4-post lifts that are bolted to the floor. These car lifts are designed as permanent installations and typically offer higher maximum lifting heights, often exceeding 1900–2100mm, allowing mechanics and car enthusiasts to stand fully upright underneath the vehicle.
However, they require thicker concrete, precise installation, and sufficient ceiling height. Once installed, they cannot be repositioned without major work.
Short Summary: Post lifts prioritise maximum access and stability but commit your space long term.
Working Height and Under-Car Access Compared
Portable lifts like the LGX35 are classed as mid-rise, with a maximum lift height of 1000mm. This is ideal for brakes, tyres, suspension, detailing, and general underbody work. The open-centre scissor design allows clear access beneath the vehicle, but it does not offer full standing height.
Full-size 2-post car lifts provide unrestricted access to wheels, drivetrain, and exhaust systems, making tasks like gearbox or engine removal easier. Four-post vehicle lifts offer excellent stability but limit wheel-off access unless accessories are added.
Installation, Storage, and Floor Space
One of the biggest differences is installation complexity. The LGX35 requires 150mm of sound concrete and no anchoring, meaning it can be installed quickly with minimal disruption. When not in use, vehicles can be parked over it, effectively reclaiming the space.
By contrast, full-size post lifts usually require 200mm concrete, drilling, anchoring, and sometimes electrical upgrades. They also permanently occupy the bay.
Safety and Stability for Heavy Work
Anchored post lifts offer maximum stability for heavy mechanical work and repeated full-rise use. Portable lifts rely on wide platforms, locking systems, and controlled lift geometry rather than anchors. The LGX35 uses electric mechanical locks and an assisted fulcrum system to provide smooth, controlled lifting without shock loading.
While portable lifts are safe when used correctly, they are better suited to maintenance rather than constant heavy drivetrain removal.
Cost and Long-Term Value
Portable lifts generally cost less than installed post lifts once fitting and building work are considered. The LGX35 is available with no installation costs if the floor meets requirements.
Full-size post lifts often exceed this once delivery, anchoring, and electrical work are included.
Portable vs Full-Size Lift Comparison
| Feature | LGX35 Portable Scissor Lift | Full-Size 2 / 4 Post Lift |
| Max Lift Height | 1000mm | 1900–2100mm |
| Capacity | 3500kg | 3000–4000kg |
| Floor Anchoring | Not required | Required |
| Installation Time | Minimal | Permanent install |
| Storage When Not in Use | Can be driven over | Fixed footprint |
| Best Use | Maintenance & flexibility | Heavy mechanical work |
FAQs
What’s the main difference between a portable and full-size car lift?
Portable lifts prioritise flexibility and minimal installation, while full-size post lifts focus on maximum height and permanent workshop use.
Can a portable car lift be a primary lift in a small garage?
Yes. For servicing, detailing, brakes, and suspension work, a mid-rise portable lift like the LGX35 is often more practical than a fixed lift.
Do portable car lifts need to be bolted to the floor?
No. The LGX35 operates safely without anchoring, provided the concrete meets minimum thickness requirements.