Stairlifts
Average Cost: $3,000 - $12,000
Here’s an in-depth review of Acorn Stairlifts, covering its product range, pricing, customer feedback, and how it compares to other stairlift brands.
Our Verdict: Acorn is a reliable choice for homeowners seeking a high-quality, customizable stairlift backed by professional installation. However, it may not be the best fit for those on tighter budgets or households that require higher weight capacities.
Acorn Stairlifts was founded in the UK in the 1980s and has since grown into one of the world’s leading stairlift providers. Today, the company serves customers in more than 80 countries and manufactures its stairlifts in-house to maintain consistent quality and reliability.
Acorn offers solutions for a variety of needs, including straight, curved, and outdoor staircases. The brand is especially known for its fast installation, strong safety features, and direct-to-consumer model that eliminates third-party dealers— making the process simpler and more efficient for homeowners.
| Best For | Top Model | Cost (Installed) | Standout Feature | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Straight or curved staircases, indoor/outdoor | Acorn 130 (straight) & Acorn 180 (curved) | Straight: $3,000 to $5,000; Curved/Outdoor: $8,000 to $15,000+ | Hinged rail, modular rails, backup battery | 12 months standard |
At Modernize, we appreciate Acorn because it combines premium quality with convenience. Stairlifts are manufactured and installed directly by Acorn, which means faster turnaround times and less hassle for homeowners. Many homeowners also love the brand’s hinged rail system, which reduces tripping hazards, and its modular rail design, which allows for faster installation compared to fully custom rail systems.
Before choosing Acorn, here are the advantages and potential drawbacks to keep in mind.
Acorn Stairlifts offers three primary types of stairlifts: straight, curved, and outdoor.
Acorn offers stairlifts designed to meet a variety of needs, from simple straight staircases to complex curved layouts and even outdoor steps. Each model comes with safety features and customization options to improve comfort and accessibility. Below, we highlight Acorn’s stairlift models to help you decide which one may be the right fit for your home.
These three options are the primary models available from Acorn. That said, there are optional upgrades within each, such as:
Customer reviews are an important factor when evaluating Acorn Stairlifts.
Overall, Acorn earns praise for professional installation, smooth operation, and helpful customer support. Many homeowners highlight how quickly the stairlifts can be installed and how easy they are to use. However, some reviews mention issues with long-term reliability, occasional breakdowns, and service costs after the warranty period ends.
“We purchased our Acorn Stairlift after we both developed mobility issues. We desired to remain in our home and our research made Acorn our best apparent choice. After our installation we discovered that the warranty was for only one year. After that year one needed to purchase extended warranty protection. This is very expensive and takes away our trust in this company. I also discovered that major appliance companies are doing this as well.” — ConsumerAffairs Review
“Acorn had best presentation and best design idea for our curved staircase. 2 other companies we got bids were using unfamiliar subcontractors. A local Med equipment company discouraged us from even thinking about it because stairlifts were unreliable and they had quit installing them. The primary reason we went with Acorn was dealing directly with the Mfg and Acorn Employees. No Subcontractors. So far, the thing is working well!” — Acorn Review
“In researching different brands. Each chairlift looked identical accept for Bruno. I liked their design better but it was not worth over $1200. Vs. the Acorn. Most of our living is on the main floor so my husband who needs this only uses it to get to his hobby area. So far we are pleased with the product. They were not a hard sell and negotiated pricing. The salesman was knowledgeable where others were not. Just a lot of small talk. Having a straight staircase was easy and the only extra was a retractable rail on the bottom.” — Yelp Review
Investing in a stairlift is a significant decision, and stairlift cost is often one of the first questions homeowners ask. Acorn stairlifts are priced to reflect both their quality and the professional installation included with every unit. While straight staircases typically fall on the lower end of the range, more complex curved or outdoor staircases can increase the overall price due to customization and additional safety features. Below, we break down typical costs, the factors that influence pricing, and financing options available to make stairlifts more affordable.
Most homeowners can expect to spend between $3,000 and $5,000 for a standard straight stairlift, while more complex curved or outdoor installations typically range higher, from $8,000 to $15,000 or more. Understanding the type of staircase in your home and any additional features you need will give you the clearest picture of where your project will land in that range.
| Model | Typical Installed Cost | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn 130 Straight | $3,000 to $5,000 | Inertia seat belt, foldable design, digital status display | Simple, straight staircases |
| Acorn 180 Curved | $8,000 to $15,000+ | Custom modular rail, swivel seat, safety sensors, optional hinged rail | Winding or multi-landing staircases |
| Acorn 130 Outdoor | $10,000 to $15,000+ | Weather-resistant build, remote controls, safety sensors | Exterior steps, porches, and outdoor access |
Acorn offers financing plans to help spread out payments. Homeowners may also qualify for assistance through VA benefits, Medicare/Medicaid (with prescription), or state mobility grants. For those seeking more affordable options, refurbished and rental stairlifts are available.
When choosing a stairlift, homeowners often compare Acorn with other leading brands. Each company has its strengths, but they differ in cost, service, and customer satisfaction. Acorn’s biggest advantage is that it manufactures and installs its own products, which streamlines the process and gives homeowners more confidence in quality control.
Acorn is the best choice if you want fast installation, direct manufacturer support, and thoughtful safety features like the hinged rail.
Lifeway Mobility is ideal if you want a more consultative approach and access to a wider variety of mobility solutions beyond stairlifts.
Leaf Home Stair Lifts is a strong option if you value long-term warranties and customization, particularly for comfort and safety add-ons.
Stannah is best suited for homeowners looking for proven reliability and higher weight capacity options backed by a long-standing heritage brand.
Choosing the right stairlift often comes with a lot of questions about cost, installation, and long-term use. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve answered some of the most common questions homeowners ask about Acorn stairlifts below. These quick, straightforward answers will give you a clearer idea of what to expect before moving forward.
Most straight stairlifts cost between $3,000 and $5,000 installed, while curved or outdoor models typically range from $8,000 to $15,000+ depending on customization.
Straight stairlifts can often be installed in just a few hours. Curved models take longer but are typically completed within a few days thanks to Acorn’s modular rail system.
Regular maintenance includes keeping the track clean and scheduling annual service checks to ensure optimal performance.
No. Acorn stairlifts are designed with folding seats, arms, and footrests so the staircase remains usable for other household members when the lift isn’t in use.
Yes. Acorn stairlifts come equipped with a battery backup that allows the unit to operate for several trips even if your home loses power.
Yes. Acorn stairlifts can be removed with minimal impact to your home, leaving only small screw holes that can be easily patched.
Yes. Units are operated by simple controls and remotes, making them accessible for multiple family members who may need assistance. Each lift includes built-in safety features like seat belts and obstruction sensors.
Acorn stairlifts come with a 12-month standard warranty that covers parts and labor. Extended service plans are available for homeowners who want ongoing protection and support beyond the first year.
Still have questions? The best way to get clear answers is through a free in-home consultation. An stairlift specialist can assess your staircase, provide a custom quote, and explain financing or warranty options tailored to your needs.
Acorn Stairlifts is a strong option for homeowners seeking a safe, reliable, and professionally installed stairlift. Its quick installation and thoughtful safety features make it a top pick for many households. That said, higher costs — especially for curved and outdoor models — may be a barrier for some buyers, and weight capacity limits may not suit every home.
If budget allows and you want a stairlift installed quickly by experienced technicians, Acorn is an excellent choice.
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