• Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Gearflow Marketplace
  • Become A Supplier
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Press
Gearflow Blog

Gearflow Blog

Empowering Fleet Professionals

  • Blog Home
  • Rental Management
  • Manufacturers
  • Contractors
  • Marketers
  • News

Which Slab Scissor Lift Is Right For You?

October 15, 2019 by Ben Preston Leave a Comment

Genie scissor lift JLG lift comparison

Choosing the right scissor lift for your construction or work project can be a daunting task. The amount of choices out can be overwhelming, but if have a good grasp of the job scope, the pool of equipment narrows considerably. 

When buying or renting a scissor lift, there are many factors to consider. How much of a load to do need? How high do you need to go? How big or small is your work space? 

For many projects that require mobility in tight spaces, the slab scissor lift is the perfect choice. Known for their versatility, they can be used indoors and outdoors, are exceptionally mobile and can work in smaller areas not accessible to larger boom lifts. 

Because the platform is generally the same size as the base, this allows for a stable vertical lift and higher weight capacity. This stability ensures the work platform can safely raise both personnel and equipment without toppling. 

Many have expandable platforms that provides a little more horizontal work space. The majority of machines are electric scissor lifts. This gives zero emissions inside so no exhaust. 

Indoors is where the slab scissor lifts really shine. They are ideal for smaller indoor spaces such as buildings, construction sites, warehouses and other urban areas. Most hydraulics scissor lifts have working heights that range from 20 to 40 feet. Perfect for not only construction, but electrical work, HVAC installation, painting, pressure washing and all types of manufacturing. Many artists utilize scissor lifts to create murals on the sides of buildings and walls.

Although many lifts on the market are similar in specifications, some vary in height and weight capacity. Factors such as the material load, if any, how many workers will it hold and the height limit. The higher the height, the lesser the load weight for stability. 

The size of the elevated work platforms are available in many sizes. Some considerations when buying or renting are the number of personnel and the weight of tools and building materials. Weight capacity on each lift will vary based on the lifts work height. For example, a scissor lift that can handle 1000 lbs when lowered might only safely hold 500 lb when elevated. 

When it comes to safety, all MEWP (mobile elevated work platform) manufacturers design their equipment to reduce the risk of any accident. Since the most frequent work site accident that involve lifts are falls, these manufacturers comply with all OSHA standards. 

Safety features include guard rails, emergency shut offs, lift speeds limitations and warning alarms to help alert nearby personnel of the lift’s proximity. 

Although the built in safety measures are state-of-the art, it still comes down to proper operator training. This brings awareness to the operator to maintain stability, avoid uneven ground, factor the wind, and other issues that can cause lifts to tip over. 

SO, WHO DO I CHOOSE?

To help with your decision, Gearflow has created a side by side comparison of two of the industry’s most popular slab scissor lifts. The JLG 1930ES and the Genie GS-1930. These two 19 scissor lifts are the ideal tool for indoor and outdoor use in tight quarters.

Genie lift vs JLG lift infographic

GENIE

The Genie GS-1930 scissor lift is known for its mobile versatility while working indoors. Although it can be used outdoors on solid, level surfaces, its ability to maneuver in tight spaces and go through single doors are what make it unique. 

Genie 1930 scissor lift
The Genie GS-1930

The 24V DC electric motor powers a dual front-wheel drive system, is quiet and gives off zero emissions. 

The slip-resistant, working platform can raise up to 19 ft. and has a 25 ft. working height. The work area is a spacious 6 ft.. long and enough for 2 people and tools. 

For the hard to reach areas, the roll-out platform can extend another 36”. 

When it comes to capacity, this machine is a heavy lifter. Its’ compact, solid base allows a maximum weight of 500 lbs. While elevated, the platform’s 36″ extension can hold up to 250 lbs. 

The narrow 30″ width of the platform allows operators to get through tight spaces. When lowered, the GS-1930 can easily fit through single doorways and narrow warehouse aisles. 

Just in case you get stuck up in the air, there is a manual platform lowering valve to get you down safely.

To keep you safe, the platform has fixed rail guards with a half-height swing gate. These rails can be folded when the machine is stowed. 

The solid, non-marking tires have an inside zero turning radius which helps you reposition the lift while basically staying in one place.

Safety has always been a top priority with Genie. They have developed many innovative safety technologies to help avoid the risk of injury or property damage. 

Features include a tilt level sensor with audible alarm, descent alarm, electronic horn and emergency stop on both the platform and ground controls. To stand out, dual flashing beacons are installed to alert other people of your presence. 

When elevated, the lift’s drive speed interlock limits moving speed to 0.5 mph. This avoid toppling and allow the operator to make safe maneuvers. 

Genie has included its innovative SmartLink system that provides intuitive on-board diagnostics and troubleshooting. In addition to diagnostics, SmartLink ensures a proportional lift and drive that will keep the machine’s movements flat and steady. Whether the platform is extended or not.

To stop, all of Genie’s small scissor lifts utilize a front wheel dynamic braking system. Along with this front wheel design, the rear wheels are built with multiple disc brakes for a nice, smooth deceleration.  

When the job is complete and it’s time to load up, the GS-1930 the lift can handle a ramp up to a 30% grade.

JLG

JLG 1930ES scissor lift
JLG 1930ES

Like the Genie, the JLG scissor lift is one of the industry’s best for job site performance. It’s features are similar and an ideal solution for vertical work projects. 

However, what really sets the JLG apart is its’ battery life. On a single change, this machine can deliver twice the operating time and dramatically increase productivity. 

The JLG’s quiet, electric and emission free motor is perfect for closed indoor spaces. The 30″ wide platform allows the operator to maneuver through tight doorways and aisles. 

The intuitive, fully proportional drive makes for smooth and tight movements. A zero inch inside turning radius and a 5 ft. 9 in. outside radius, lets you essentially spin in one place. 

The machine’s sturdy platform can be raised up to 18 ft. 9in. And provides a 24 ft. 9 in. overall working height. It gets you up to where you need to be. While elevated, the 1930ES can be driven at 0.5 mph for a continuous workflow.

While up top, workers will find the 6 ft. 2 in. platform spacious and provides a wide work area. Not wide enough? The platform can extend out another 36 in. for hard to reach work spaces. 

As far as durability, the JLG’s integrated components are designed with only two hydraulic hoses and four hydraulic fittings on the entire machine. This allows you to stay on the job longer by reducing the chance of leaks and service calls.

When it comes to safety, JLG’s innovative SkySense technology reduces the risk of running into any type of object. The machine’s object detection sensors warn the operator when a collision could occur. Along with these sensors, the 1930ES is equipped with motion alarms, a tilt alarm, descend warnings and a horn.

SIDE BY SIDE SPECS

FEATURESJLG 1930ESGenie GS-1930
Working Height Maximum24 ft. 9in.25 ft. 
Platform Height Maximum18 ft. 9in.19 ft.
Platform height stowed2 ft 10 in.3 ft. 4 in.
Platform length6 ft. 2 in.6 ft.
Slide-out platform extension deck3 ft.3 ft.
Platform length extended9 ft. 2 in.9 ft. 
Platform width 2 ft. 6 in.2 ft. 6 in.
Guardrail height: fixed rails3 ft 7 in.3 ft. 3.
Height-stowed: fixed rails6 ft. 5 in.6 ft. 7 in.
Wheelbase5 ft. 3 in.4 ft. 4 in.
Ground clearance4 in.2.4 in.
Maximum platform occupancy22
Lift capacity500 lbs.500 lbs.
Lift capacity – extension deck250 lbs.250 lbs.
Drive heightFull heightFull height
Drive speed – Lowered3 mph2.5 mph
Drive speed – Elevated0.5 mph0.5 mph
Safety TechnologySkySenseSmartLink
Gradeability – Stowed25%30%
Turning radius – Inside00
Turning radius – Outside5 ft. 9 in.5 ft 1 in
Raise / lower speed26 / 30 seconds16 / 22 seconds
Drive24v electricDual front wheel
Multiple disc brakesElectric, frictionDual rear wheel
Tires Size12.5 x 4 in12 x 4.5 in
Power SourceDCDC
Vehicle Weight2710 lbs.2748 lb.
StandardsAS/NZS 1418.10 2011 ANSI A92.3, CSA B354.1, EN 280, AS1418.10
WarrantyFull warranty coverage for 2 years. Major structural components for 5 years. Major structural components for 5 years. 1 year for electrical, 3 years for hydraulic, 1 year for O-Rings, seals, hoses, and brakes
Battery4 x 6V, 220 Ah batteries4 x 6V, 225 Ah batteries
Hydraulic Reservoir:1 gallon3.75 gal 
Cost $14,498$14,299

CONCLUSION

Both the JLG and Genie are dynamic, versatile machines that increase will productivity, efficiency and have the utmost safety in mind. Each has very similar work features, yet there are varying options on the technology. We hope this comparison of two of the best slab scissor lifts in the industry helps your decision-making process.

Share this:

  • LinkedIn
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Print

Filed Under: Contractors Tagged With: guide, scissor lift, slab scissor lift

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

GET THE FLEET RESOURCES THAT YOU NEED

Be the first to access our biweekly insights and advice designed to improve your decision-making.

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter

More to See

The First Marketplace For All Things Construction Equipment

November 30, 2018

Amazon Business is Coming for Your Customers…

September 3, 2020

construction fleet management

Top Experts Share 5 Insights That Will Change Construction Fleet Management

September 29, 2020

Categories

  • Contractors
  • Featured
  • Manufacturers
  • Marketers
  • More To See
  • News
  • Popular
  • Rental Management
  • Technology

Archives

  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2019
  • November 2019
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • July 2019
  • November 2018

Footer

About Us

The Gearflow.com blog empowers fleet professionals with the insightful resources, advice, and success stories they need to make better decisions.

Whether you’re an equipment owner, fleet manager, or service technician, we are here to help.

Questions? Topic suggestions? Please contact us with your feedback.

Recent

  • Top Fleet Management Conferences for 2021 You Need to Know
  • How to Prepare Now for Future of Electric Construction Equipment
  • Expert Service Tech Shares View on How to Ease Heavy Equipment Repair
  • How to Boost Job Site Safety With Better Fleet Management

Newsletter

Join our growing fleet management community for biweekly insights and advice.

© 2020 Gearflow.com All Rights Reserved.

This form is currently undergoing maintenance. Please try again later.