Best Telescoping Ladder Reviews
Not long ago people still used metal or wooden ladders that were too bulky to carry. Even though they were long-lasting, the idea of carrying them around was childish. They mostly occupied huge space in our garage, basement or wore out on our back lawn. But it is the 21st century and like all other things, your ladder has also become portable. Telescoping ladders are different from other ladders in a sense that they can be retracted to adjust your desired height. Just like rotating a telescope. These ladders have a folding mechanism and compact size for easy storage.
After knowing this, who would not want to have these in their homes? However, making the decision of buying a telescoping ladder can be massive stress as the market is flooded with different kinds of telescoping ladders. Given their popularity, manufacturers are adding a great many features to them every day! To help you make an informed, right decision, following is the list of our best picks of the latest telescoping ladders:
Table of Contents
- 10 Best Telescoping Ladder of 2018 Comparision
- Idealchoiceproduct 10.5ft Aluminum Telescopic Telescoping Ladder Extension Steps
- OxGord 12.5ft Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder
- Ohuhu 12.5ft Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder
- Lifewit 12.5ft EN131 Telescoping Ladder
- Easy Access Innovations 12.5’ Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder
- Xtend & Climb 785P Aluminum Telescopic Ladder Type 1 Professional Series
- Telesteps 1600EP OSHA Compliant 16ft Reach Professional Wide Step Telescopic Extension Ladder
- Generic EN131 12.5ft Aluminum Telescoping Telescopic Extension Ladder
- Oshion 16.5ft EN131 Aluminum Telescoping Telescopic Extension Ladder
- Things You Have to Know: Buyer’s Guide
- Why Should You Have One: Telescoping Ladders vs other Ladders
- What to Look for in a Good Quality Telescoping Ladder
- Quick Safety Tips
- Conclusion
10 Best Telescoping Ladder of 2018 Comparision
Model | Specification |
---|---|
Idealchoiceproduct 10.5 FT Aluminium Telescopic Telescoping Ladder Extension Steps Buy From Amazon |
Available Sizes: 10.5 ft, 12.5 ft, 19.5 ft & RV Stool Supported Weight: 300 lbs Max Length: 10.5 ft Ladder Weight: 21.6 lbs Other Specifications: Collapses to 2.6 feet Aluminum built with silver finish Nonslip rungs Velcro strap for rung holding Bag for storage Portable, foldable and extendable When extended, steps are automatically locked in Comes with a shoulder strap to carry it around Pros: Lightweight, sturdy design Easy storage and easily portable Excellent for both indoors and outdoors Cons: Has no anti-finger jamming facility. Editor's Review: |
OxGord 12.5 Feet Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder Buy From Amazon |
Supported Weight: 330 lbs Max Length: 12.5 ft Ladder Weight: 24.2 lbs Other Specifications: Collapses to 3.3 feet 5ft long, retractable Aluminum Extension telescopic ladder Multitasking quality; ideal for home, office, small construction projects Each step measure 12’’ to 13.5’’ wide Comes in a thick bag for storage and transportation facility Product dimension: 41x20x4 inches CERTIFIED: European Safety Standard EN131, CE and SGS Pros: Durable, lightweight. Thanks to its’ aluminum material Wide steps for ease of use Excellent weight capacity for both home and commercial purposes Reasonable price, portable and easy storage facility Cons: Not suitable for rough usage Collapsing the ladder might be a little tricky. Editor's Review: |
Ohuhu 12.5ft Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder Buy From Amazon |
Supported Weight: 330 lbs Max Length: 12.5 ft Ladder Weight: 25.4 lbs Other Specifications: Collapses down to 41.1 inches Made with durable aluminum alloy Anti-pinch function Comes with a rubber stopper or pillar for preventing finger jamming Red and green indicator for step collapsing Comes with heavy duty carrying strap Certificated to European Safety Standard EN131, CE and SGS. Pros: Durable, sturdy and compact Extra safety ensured with plastic pillars and lock indicators Portable, extendable to desired heights Stylish and has latest facilities Cons: Steps may feel wobbly sometimes, as the weight capacity can differ Heavy for some people Editor's Review: |
Lifewit 12.5ft EN131 Telescoping Extension Multi Purpose Ladders Buy From Amazon |
Supported Weight: 330 lbs Max Length: 12.5 ft Ladder Weight: 23.1 lbs Other Specifications: Collapses down to 34.3 inches Sturdy aluminum alloy metal ladder Thumb push lock mechanism, scientific extension design Retract method is top-down, rung by rung operation, pressing a button on the edge Total dimension 83.5x3.6x19.7 inches Pros: Lightweight, compact design for easy storage Safer than most ladders for its easy retracting and lock mechanism Easy to carry, portable ladder Cons: Feet are not adjustable, leading to shakiness when not in an even surface. Editor's Review: |
Easy Access Innovations 12.5' Aluminum Telescoping Extension Ladder Buy From Amazon |
Supported Weight: 300 lbs Max Length: 12.5 ft Ladder Weight: 30 lbs Other Specifications: Collapses down to 35.1 inches 5ft of extended height and 12.5ft of working height Sturdy aluminum telescopic ladder 10 different retractable heights ranging from 44 inches to 150 inches Total dimension is 35.1x21x3.7 inches ANSI/OSHA Type 1A duty rating Quick rung release mechanism Pros: Easy to use, store and portable Durable design and compact size Quick rung release mechanism makes deploying the ladder much easier Cons: Can be a little heavy Setting this ladder is tricky. So read the instructions carefully to avoid accidents Editor's Review: |
Xtend & Climb 785P Aluminum Telescoping Ladder Buy From Amazon |
Available Sizes: 8.5 ft, 10.5ft, 12.5 ft, & 15.5 ft Colors Available: Gray/Yellow, Red, Black, Blue & Green Supported Weight: 250 lbs Max Length: 15.5 ft Ladder Weight: 34.9 lbs Other Specifications: Collapses down to 36.5 inches Reaches the height of 15.5ft and weighs 36 pounds Aerospace engineered 6061 alloy aluminum telescopic ladder Type 1 duty rating means 250lbs of weight capacity Has no-pinch rung release and angled thumb release system Secured with a Velcro strap, has 16 steps that collapse down to 36.5 inches Nonslip end caps backed by strong frames on the side and bottom 6 months parts repair warranty Pros: Ergonomic design, compact style, easy to carry and store Reaches longer heights for attic and rooftops and retracts easily Durable aluminum alloy construction confirms longevity Cons: Tricky unfolding mechanism. Editor's Review: |
Telesteps 1600EP OSHA Compliant 16 ft Reach Professional Wide Step Telescoping Extension Ladder Buy From Amazon |
Supported Weight: 300 lbs Max Length: 16 ft Ladder Weight: 25 lbs Other Specifications: Collapses down to 30 inches 5ft aluminum automated telescopic ladder with 16ft reach Duty rating of Type 1A Professional One-touch release and fold mechanism Wide angled steps which are 3ft deep 100% silicon pivoted steps and elliptical tubes for non-slip, sturdy performance Pros: Compact, lightweight, easy to carry Automated lock and release mechanism makes it a lot easier to operate Type 1A Professional duty rating makes it perfect for commercial and other multipurpose use Silicon feet ensures non-marring and non-slipping grip Cons: Sometimes flexes when on the top shelf. Editor's Review: |
Generic En131 12.5ft Tall Multi Purpose Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder Buy From Amazon |
Supported Weight: 330 lbs Max Length: 12.5 ft Ladder Weight: 20.2 lbs Other Specifications: Collapses down to 37 inches Aluminum alloy telescopic ladder 13 steps retract in 12 inches increments Total dimension when folded is 37x21x5 inches Heavy duty carrying case included Pros: Easy to carry and store Lightweight Reaches longer heights Reasonable pricing Cons: Lock and fold mechanism is tricky and can be dangerous when unnoticed. Editor's Review: |
Oshion 16.5ft EN131 Aluminum Telescoping Telescopic Extension Ladder Buy From Amazon |
Supported Weight: 330 lbs Max Length: 16.5 ft Ladder Weight: 40 lbs Other Specifications: Collapses down to 38.7 inches Anodized aluminum 16.5ft telescopic ladder 4 way usability- extension ladder, twin stepladder, stairway ladder and scaffold Thumb click lock and release mechanism Every rung has grip handles, protection spacers Skid proof end caps are flared, like pedals Total package dimension 38.7x20.5x8 inches Pros: Strong, durable aluminum build Great for multipurpose use, 4-way usability Easy to extend Skid and mar resistant pedal shaped end caps ensure extra safety Reaches longer heights than most ladders Cons: Heavy compared to other ladders Folding mechanism is tricky. Editor's Review: |
Todeco - Telescopic ladder, Foldable Ladder Buy From Amazon |
Supported Weight: 330 lbs Max Length: 12.5 ft Ladder Weight: 22.7 lbs Other Specifications: Collapses down to 41 inches Number of steps: 13 Material: Aluminium alloy Unfolded size: 12.5 x 19.1 x 3.5 inches Distance between the rungs (ladder deployed): 11.8 inches Pros: Easy to store and transport For both individual and professional use Durable, and rustproof Handy bag makes sure you can carry it wherever you want Cons: May not be as astable Editor's Review: |
Idealchoiceproduct 10.5ft Aluminum Telescopic Telescoping Ladder Extension Steps
Idealchoiceproduct Telescoping ladder has an aluminum built, silver finish and has an extendable design. It can reach 10.5ft high while fully extended and can be retracted to adjust heights. Because of its’ aluminum built, this ladder is super lightweight (21.6lbs) and has a compact storage facility. It stores downs to less than 3ft tall.
- Number of Ladder Step:11
- Fold Height: 31.5 “(80CM)
- Step Interval: 11.8”(30CM)
- Thickness of Tube: 0.05”-0.06”(1.3-1.5MM)
- Thickness of Step: 0.06”(1.4MM)
These qualities make this ladder perfect for both home and commercial use. Its’ Velcro strap secures its rungs in place while folded. You can carry it in the trunk of your car, RV or pack it up in a free bag that comes with it and store it safely for long period.
Be careful when extending the ladder. It has no anti-finger jamming facility. Follow the instructions carefully otherwise you’ll get hurt.
The Idealchoiceproduct Telescoping ladder is one of the best telescoping ladders because of its design and its sturdy build quality. In case you don’t know, Idealchoiceproducts ship their products from the manufacturers directly to you. No shipping charges and no middleman required for this job. This ensures a level of trust between the buyer and the manufacturer.
OxGord 12.5ft Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder
This product is also a great choice for people looking for a multitasking ladder. It reaches the height of up to 12.5ft from the ground, but as these are all telescopic, you can retract its height without extending it all together. The OxGord Aluminum ladder is suitable for both home and small construction work as it can take loads up to 330lbs. You can tilt it at 75 degrees angle. It is also safe because it has two steel locking pins that automatically set the steps in place. It complies with the European Safety Standard EN131, CE, and SGS. Another top-notch quality of this ladder is that it folds down to only 3.3ft tall. Thus, it’s portable, durable and ideal for multitasking.
Its’ weight when fully extended is 24.2lbs, which can be a little heavy for some people. But on the bright side, it comes in a reasonable price. You get a good deal for a multitasking, sturdy and safe ladder even if it seems a little heavy.
Ohuhu 12.5ft Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder
Another top ladder is from Ohuhu and it’s a 12.5ft tall ladder that is made of sturdy and durable aluminum alloy. But this is not its’ only specialty. For extended safety with extendable height, it has a rubber stopper on every rung. This saves your finger from jamming while you fold the ladder. This is in the shape of a plastic pillar so you don’t fall off the ladder either. It extends and locks in place by a push-up button mechanism.
If you are already overwhelmed, then you should know that Ohuhu Aluminum Telescopic ladders have a new exciting feature. There is a red switch beneath every rung and beside the rung is a red switch indicator, which tells you when the steps are fully extended or folded. This ladder makes every task a one-person job. Especially if you do all the work alone, then it is very useful. Unlike other ladders that collapse altogether, you can fold this ladder by collapsing each step or rung one by one, holding the red switch. It will make your packing and repacking of the ladder a breeze.
This amazing ladder takes up to 330lbs of load and has rubber end caps at the bottom so that you and your ladder don’t slip away.
Although it is super easy to use alone, we recommend to use it when accompanied by a friend or a helper. Also, do not climb on the top shelf or step of any ladders as they are not made for you to stand on. Besides, this way you may lose your balance and cause injuries.
Lifewit 12.5ft EN131 Telescoping Ladder
Lifewit Household products are designed for the pleasure of your home experience. It is an independent professional household brand that offers you a 30-day return policy among other customer care policies. The 12.5ft telescopic ladder from Lifewit is another hit in our list.
Made with sturdy aluminum alloy, this ladder can take a load of up to 330lbs. Which is similar to the Ohuhu Telescopic ladder mentioned earlier in the sense that it has a thumb push lock mechanism.
The ladder has a total of 12 steps with an independent locking system. It doesn’t have an indicator, but its’ rungs can be collapsed independently like the Ohuhu model. To retract or fold the steps all you have to do is press the black button on the edge of each rung. If in any case, you forget to collapse a rung before the upper one, it leaves a 2’’ space between the rungs. This beautiful silver finish sturdy ladder is only 23.1lbs. Means one person can easily carry it around and it fits perfectly in your car trunk, RV or your basement.
Remember not to put your hand on the rungs while collapsing them. They do not require to be held on. Also, the feet are not adjustable so you may have to level the grounds otherwise the ladder will wobble.
Easy Access Innovations 12.5’ Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder
The 12.5ft Aluminum telescopic ladder from Easy Access is one sturdy and compact ladder for your medium household activities. It has a duty rating of Type 1A which means it can hold up to 300lbs of load. As mentioned, this marvelous ladder reaches the height of about 12.5ft but when folded, becomes only 34 inches in size.
The ladder has 10 different retractable heights ranging from 44 inches (lowest) to 150 inches (highest). Although it has 12.5ft of extended height, its’ working height is about 15.5ft.
It complies with the ANSI/OSHA standards of ladder safety. You can set this ladder by just pulling the Quick rung release strap. It has won the hearts of the customers for being easily portable, sturdy and for having a safer fold and extend mechanism.
It weighs 30lbs, and the folding mechanism can be a little tricky. Make sure to read the manual carefully before climbing on it. The manual comes with the item, but you can also find some helpful video on how to set these kinds of ladders.
Xtend & Climb 785P Aluminum Telescopic Ladder Type 1 Professional Series
This ladder from Xtend & Climb model #785P gives you all the benefits of a traditional extension ladder but in the form of a lightweight, compact telescopic ladder. It reaches a maximum height of 15.5ft that means it is perfect for commercial use, serious Do-It-Yourselfers and for your attic and garage work.
This multipurpose ladder is made with a durable 6061 aluminum alloy but weighs only 36 pounds. It has an ANSI/OSHA duty rating of Type 1, which means it’s capable of carrying 250lbs weight.
Safety is assured by its no-pinch closure system and angled thumb release system. Its steps are each 1ft apart and are mar and slip-resistant. It has a total of 16 steps that are secured by a Velcro strap. This whole gigantic telescopic ladder folds down to only 36.5 inches, and one person can carry it around easily.
For further safety of your fingers, the Xtend & Climb 785P Aluminum Telescopic Ladder Type 1 Professional Series ladder has red and green indicators that tell you when the ladder is locked and safe to climb on. Along with the nonslip end caps, this ladder has two sturdy side frames and a middle frame that balances the ladder’s weight and ensures safety from slipping.
Like other telescopic ladders, it has a quite tricky extend and closure system. So read the instructions carefully and extend each ladder step by step. While storing the ladder after work, gently pull the release strap.
Telesteps 1600EP OSHA Compliant 16ft Reach Professional Wide Step Telescopic Extension Ladder
Telesteps ladders are invented by Regal Ideas Inc. which was awarded the Retailers Choice Award for Outstanding and Innovative Product last year. Telesteps is the world’s only fully automated telescopic ladder manufacturer.
This awesome ladder has all the features you need with a whopping height of 16ft. It has an ANSI 14.2 standard and OSHA duty rating of Type 1A and is capable of carrying 300lbs of weight. It is the simplest ladder to operate as it got a patented one-touch release mechanism.
With a simple touch, this 16ft professional wide step ladder collapses to a mere 30 inches tall and weighs 25 pounds! Surprised yet? Each step can be retracted independently and have a traction tread, wide design. It has elliptical tubes and 100% silicon pivoting feet for extra grip while on the ladder.
Nothing works better on RVs, trailers, vans than this compact ladder. It has 3ft deep steps and a 1-year guarantee. It is a highly recommended telescopic ladder for its ease of use and durable structure.
Generic EN131 12.5ft Aluminum Telescoping Telescopic Extension Ladder
The Generic 12.5ft Aluminum Telescopic Extension ladder is all you need for a small garage or a not so spacious apartment. It complies with the European ladder safety standards and has a duty rating of 330lbs.
Made with Anodized Aluminum alloy, this durable, 13 steps ladder is ideal for multitasking. Its’ steps retract in 12 inches increments thus, can reach for longer ceilings. When we say multitasking, we mean you can use this ladders as an extension ladder, a telescoping ladder and even as a work platform in your backyard. All these folds down to only 23.8lbs of weight. It is also suitable for transportation. Because you get a heavy-duty carry case with this amazing product.
Put simply, its’ measurements are 18 inches at the bottom and 17 inches at the top. The total dimension when folded comes down to 37x 21×5 inches.
Many have complaints regarding its’ locking system. Unlike other ladders whose steps can be collapsed one by one, this model collapses altogether with a one-touch button. This may be risky for you if you do not follow the instructions carefully. You can find lots of videos on how to set this ladder up and fold it afterward.
Oshion 16.5ft EN131 Aluminum Telescoping Telescopic Extension Ladder
The heaviest ladder on our list is the 40lbs Oshion EN131 Aluminum Telescopic Telescoping Extension ladder. Its’ amazing features make up for its heavyweight.
Made with durable anodized aluminum alloy, this 16.5ft ladder can be used in various forms. You can use it as a telescoping ladder, twin stepladder, stairway ladder and as a scaffold.
To prevent finger pinching, it comes with grip handles on every rung, so you have a better grip. For locking and unlocking, it has a thumb click mechanism.
Every section opens and locks independently. What’s more, is it has angled feet and bottom caps that ensure secure leaning against any wall.
Its’ heavy-duty closure strap secures its steps in place and enables it to carry it around with ease. Its weight capacity is 330lbs which is perfect for commercial use. Its locking and unfolding mechanism are unique and the end caps are flared, just like stable pedals.
Some people may find its 40 pounds weight too much to handle. Also, you need to be careful when folding this ladder as it collapses quickly.
Things You Have to Know: Buyer’s Guide
After comparing the aforementioned ladders, we assume you have picked your choice. However, there are still some important factors to be pointed out before making the purchase. If you are a first time owner of a telescoping ladder, the following things might come to your aid. Even if you are not a newcomer in the telescoping ladder-owning zone, it’s still smart to know some basics:
Why Should You Have One: Telescoping Ladders vs other Ladders
The most important question to be answered is: do you really need a telescoping ladder?
Nowadays we all have at least one type of ladder in our house. But we all know that we cannot use the same ladder for every kind of task. Telescoping ladders can be readjusted to the desired heights without fully extending it. Other ladders, such as step ladder and even some extension ladders do not have this feature.
A step ladder can have multiple sections, but its height is not adjustable. Also, step ladders are mostly made of thick aluminum and steel which make it a lot heavier. Unlike other ladders Telescoping ladders are versatile. You can use it as a classic stepladder, an extension ladder, an A-frame stepladder and even as a scaffold. As extension and stepladder rungs only get folded, they are a bit hassle to store. But the rungs of telescoping ladders just collapse on one another; you can carry it anywhere with you.
What to Look for in a Good Quality Telescoping Ladder
There is no fixed set of things that are common to all types of ladders. You can never say that a ladder is perfect for you because there is always a better one out there. However, there are some essential points that make a ladder from being a good ladder to a great ladder:
Height and Weight Capacity
Before buying any ladder consider where you are going to use it? Every ladder has a working platform at the top. So while measuring the height keep in mind that the platform is not a part of the ladders’ actual height because you won’t be standing on that. Telescoping ladders come in the heights of 8.5ft to 15.5ft on average and can carry 300lbs on average. Make sure that your ladder complies with these measures.
Material
All the ladders reviewed in this article are made of aluminum. This is the reason for the telescoping ladder is lighter weight and compact size. Aluminum is only 60% electricity conductive and is very durable, strong. Look for high-grade aluminum tubing which is extra thick.
Other Parts
Make sure your ladder has rubber grips on the feet, so your ladder doesn’t slide off on slippery floors. The rungs should be wide-angled and slip-resistant. The height should always be automatically adjustable. Some ladders come with anti-finger jamming mechanism, so a great ladder should have one.
Quick Safety Tips
- Make sure your ladder complies with OSHA/ ANSI standards for ladder safety
- Keep the duty rating in mind. Remember that these ratings are based on the weight of the climber plus the tools
- While climbing try to follow the 3 point contact process- 2 hands 1 feet/ 2 feet 1 hand on the rail
- Invest in a safety harness that can take up to 1800lbs of load
- Do not lean on one side of the ladder while climbing on it
- Do not set the ladder against an uneven, slippery wall
- Test the rungs by standing on them before buying
- Aluminum is high electricity conductive when wet. So avoid using the ladder while it’s raining or during some other bad weather
Conclusion
Most people who have not owned a telescopic ladder before may find them in deep waters when looking for a perfect telescopic ladder. Almost all the telescopic ladders have similar, basic functions, but they can be tricky. Because telescoping ladders can be retracted to desired heights, their design and functionality are delicate. However, you have a ton of options to choose from. Our best picks are the most popular ladders on the market now. We have covered all the basic things you need to know before spending your hard-earned money on anything. Make sure to weigh the gains and losses of choosing a ladder. We hope this article helped you to make the right decision.