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The Best Telescopic Ladders
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Best overall - WolfWise 4.7M Telescoping Ladder
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Best tall ladder - Teenza 4.9M Telescopic Ladder
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Best for easy retraction - Nineaccy 4.5M Telescopic Ladder
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Best value ladder - StepIt 3.8m Telescopic Ladder
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Best lighweight ladder - Nassboards 3.2M Telescoping Ladder
Telescopic Ladder Reviews
1. WolfWise 4.7M Telescoping Ladder
Best overall
- Very compact given the full extension length - just 95 x 48 cm once folded
- Independent locks allow you to adjust the step height to fit specific requirements
- Extends to its full height in just a few seconds
- Large rubber feet give the ladder good grip on most floor surfaces
- Has some flex at full extension
- At 13.3 kg, this is one of the heavier telescopic ladders on the market
- There is no stabilising bar
- Spring loaded latches consist of plastic parts instead of metal
- Max. Length
- 4.7 m
- Weight
- 13.3 kg
- Max. Load
- 150 kg
- Material
- Aluminium
- Design
- 5
- Stability
- 4
- Ease of Use
- 5
- Value for Money
- 5
If you want maximum versatility from your ladder, the WolfWise 4.7M Telescoping Ladder is an excellent option to consider. It has a maximum height of 4.7 m.
This Wolfwise ladder offers a broad span of heights and the sections open and close individually in 1 ft (30 cm) increments. This means you can tailor the ladder height to your exact needs, whether you’re changing a lightbulb, cleaning your windows or clearing leaves from the gutter.
It could also be used as a loft ladder and has a maximum load capacity of 150 kg.
After use, this telescopic ladder can be retracted down to a compact 48 x 95 cm, so it’s easy to store away in small cupboards. This also allows it to be packed away in the boot of a car.
It’s easy to carry as well: the heavy-duty strap allows you to secure the ladder shut, and it can then be carried with one hand. It weighs 13.3 kg so is reasonably lightweight, though some people may find it heavy to carry for extended periods.
Overall, this Wolfwise ladder is a useful and versatile piece of equipment to have around the house, adaptable for many jobs thanks to its height and easy storage. It’s the best telescopic ladder overall, suitable for a range of tasks both indoors and out.
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2. Teenza 4.9M Telescopic Ladder[ SAVE 4% ]
Best tall ladder
- Longest ladder with maximum extension of 4.9 m
- Safety features include hooks that can be latched over a wall or ledge for stability
- Features a stabiliser bar at the base
- Large rubber feet are anti-skid and won’t damage indoor flooring
- Extends smoothly and audibly clicks when locks which is reassuring to hear
- Considerable amount of flex in the frame - especially for heavier users
- Need to be extremely careful when closing the ladder not to trap your fingers
- Heavier and bulkier than many telescopic ladders which may make it a little harder to carry
- Max. Length
- 4.9 m
- Weight
- 14.8 kg
- Max. Load
- 150 kg
- Material
- Aluminium
- Design
- 4.5
- Stability
- 4
- Ease of Use
- 4
- Value for Money
- 4.5
As the tallest telescopic ladder featured here, the Teenza 4.9M Telescopic Ladder extends to an impressive 4.9 m. It’s the best telescopic ladder if you’ve got exterior work to do on your home, such as cleaning upstairs windows or removing leaves from gutters.
This ladder complies with EN131 safety standards. It includes safety features such as a stability bar and non-slip rubber feet. There are also safety hooks that can be hooked over a wall to prevent the ladder from moving while in use.
Made from aluminium, this ladder is strong and sturdy, with a 150 kg maximum load. It’s not as compact as some telescopic ladders when fully retracted (measuring 101 x 67.8 cm, not including the two hooks); however, it should still be possible to store under a bed, in a small cupboard or in the boot of your car.
Because this is a longer ladder, it weighs slightly more at 14.8 kg. It’s also slightly bulkier when compacted down, compared to some telescopic ladders, due to the hooks.
Nevertheless, if you are after extra height, this is the best telescopic ladder to choose.
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3. Nineaccy 4.5M Telescopic Ladder
Best for easy retraction
- Fairly compact once folded measuring just 94 x 48 cm
- Rungs can be adjusted in 1 ft (30 cm) increments
- Two retraction methods including a slower, ‘safer’ retraction option
- Securing strap has a clasp instead of velcro to keep it closed
- At 13.5 kg, this ladder is fairly heavy and may be difficult for some users to manage and carry
- Has a lot of flex when fully extended, especially for heavier users
- Max. Length
- 4.5 m
- Weight
- 13.5 kg
- Max. Load
- 150 kg
- Material
- Aluminium
- Design
- 5
- Stability
- 4.5
- Ease of Use
- 4.5
- Value for Money
- 4
With a maximum height of 4.5 m, the Nineaccy 4.5M Telescopic Ladder is one of the taller telescopic ladders featured here and it’s also one of the easiest to use.
With many telescopic ladders, the fast speed at which they retract which can lead to pinched or trapped fingers. But, this modern telescopic ladder has two folding methods: ‘quick’ or ‘safe’. The ‘safe’ option results in the ladder retracting slowly but safely, keeping fingers safe. Alternatively, if you’re short of time and know to keep your fingers out of the way, the ‘quick’ method is a faster option.
When folded, this telescopic ladder is very compact. It measures just 94 x 48 cm meaning it will fit into the back of a car. It’s held securely together by a heavy-duty strap and clasp.
This ladder is made from aluminium alloy and is reasonably lightweight at 13.5 kg, though this is still at the ‘heavier’ end of the scale when it comes to telescopic ladders.
This ladder can be adjusted in 1 ft (30 cm) increments. Therefore, whether you’re painting your upstairs windows or need a simple loft ladder, it can easily be adjusted to suit the space.
There are a few key things to note when it comes to safety. The first is that when fully extended, the ladder can flex a fair amount. Although not unusual for telescopic ladders, it can be unnerving. The second is that there’s no stabiliser bar at the base.
Overall, this is the best telescopic ladder if you’re looking for a safer, slower retraction method. With standard telescopic ladders you do have to take a lot of care not to trap or pinch fingers.
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4. StepIt 3.8m Telescopic Ladder
Best value ladder
- Good value for money given the maximum length is 3.8 m
- Conforms to EN131-6 European safety standards
- Rubber feet keep the ladder secure and stable on most surfaces
- Anti-slip carry cap allows you to safely transport the ladder when it’s folded up
- Narrow construction can be navigated into awkward spaces
- Can flex under users at the top end of the load capacity
- Max. Length
- 3.8 m
- Weight
- 10.4 kg
- Max. Load
- 150 kg
- Material
- Aluminium
- Design
- 4.5
- Stability
- 4.5
- Ease of Use
- 4.5
- Value for Money
- 5
One of the most affordable telescopic ladders on the market, the StepIt 3.8m Telescopic Ladder offers great value for money. Despite its affordable price, it still extends to an impressive 3.8 m and conforms to EN131 European safety standards.
This ladder is very compact when fully retracted which means it takes up minimal storage space. It measures 86 x 47.5 x 9 cm and can be slotted under a bed, into a narrow cupboard or packed into the boot of your car.
When in use, this ladder feels sturdy and the anti-slip rubber feet offer good grip across a range of surfaces. It’s a useful height for jobs around the home and would make a good loft ladder too.
The 47.5 cm width is reasonably narrow. This is great for navigating the ladder in awkward spaces, but some users may appreciate a wider platform when climbing the ladder.
Made from aviation-grade 1.5 mm thick aluminium, this ladder is fully rust-proof and extremely durable. The maximum load capacity is a generous 150 kg, although it’s worth noting that it can flex slightly, particularly when fulling extended.
Overall, this is the best telescopic ladder for value for money because it strikes a good balance between affordability and quality. It’s not too heavy either, at 10.4 kg, so remains easy to transport as well.
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5. Nassboards 3.2M Telescoping Ladder
Best lighweight ladder
- Very lightweight at just 8.3 kg which makes it very portable
- Exact height can be set using the adjustable self-locking steps
- Very compact once folded, measures just 80 x 47 x 9 cm so easy to fit in the back of a car or in a large rucksack
- Sturdy rubber feet gives it good grip on most outdoor and indoor surfaces
- Ladder retracts quickly so may trap your fingers if you aren’t paying attention
- Max. Length
- 3.2 m
- Weight
- 8.3 kg
- Max. Load
- 150 kg
- Material
- Aluminium
- Design
- 4.5
- Stability
- 4.5
- Ease of Use
- 4.5
- Value for Money
- 4
If you want to use a telescopic ladder outside the home, weight will play a big role in its portability. The Nassboards 3.2M Telescoping Ladder is the lightest of my recommendations, weighing just 8.3 kg. It could even be transported in a large backpack, if necessary.
When fully retracted it measures just 80 x 47 x 8 cm. This makes it easy to store around the home too.
This particular ladder has a maximum height of 3.2 m and it features an automatic locking mechanism for each rung: each step can be individually locked to customise the height of the ladder to the job in hand. That means it can come in handy whether you’re painting the ceiling, cleaning the windows or clearing the gutters. .
Given this ladder’s lightweight aluminium construction, you might expect a reduction in strength. However, it still boasts the same 150 kg maximum load as other heavier models on the market. It’s made from a rust-resistant aluminium alloy.
In terms of ladder safety, the feet are fitted with sturdy non-slip end caps to help the ladder retain stability on most indoor and outdoor surfaces. However, bear in mind that this ladder doesn’t feature a stabiliser bar at the base.
If you’re looking for a lightweight option that can be used for a variety of jobs, this is the best telescopic ladder to consider. Thanks to its lightweight construction, it could also easily be transported outside of the home if needed.
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Compare Product Features
Use the dropdown to sort the table by the feature you want to see.
WolfWise 4.7M Telescoping Ladder
- 4.8
- 4.7 m
- 13.3 kg
- 150 kg
- Aluminium
Teenza 4.9M Telescopic Ladder
- 4.3
- 4.9 m
- 14.8 kg
- 150 kg
- Aluminium
Nineaccy 4.5M Telescopic Ladder
- 4.5
- 4.5 m
- 13.5 kg
- 150 kg
- Aluminium
StepIt 3.8m Telescopic Ladder
- 4.6
- 3.8 m
- 10.4 kg
- 150 kg
- Aluminium
Nassboards 3.2M Telescoping Ladder
- 4.4
- 3.2 m
- 8.3 kg
- 150 kg
- Aluminium
How We Chose Our Recommendations
Having worked with a wide array of garden and DIY tools over the years, my experience with telescopic ladders stands out distinctly. The convenience and portability of these ladders have seen me through countless projects, from pruning tall trees in the garden to fixing guttering. With this hands-on experience, I’ve developed a keen understanding of what makes a quality telescopic ladder.
When recommending telescopic ladders, I ensure that we don’t just look at the popular picks or the ones with the most sales. Instead, we dive deep into the features that genuinely matter. Here’s a snapshot of our selection criteria:
- Safety First: A ladder’s primary job is to ensure your safety. We prioritize ladders with anti-slip feet, strong locking mechanisms, and clear indicators when each section is safely locked into place.
- Material & Build Quality: The ladder should be crafted from high-quality materials, preferably corrosion-resistant aluminum, ensuring longevity and robust performance. The joints and hinges should also feel sturdy and durable.
- Portability & Storage: One of the main advantages of telescopic ladders is their compact size when retracted. We appreciate ladders that are lightweight, easy to carry around, and require minimal storage space.
- Height & Adjustability: A good ladder offers flexibility. It should cater to various heights and be easily adjustable to suit different tasks. Whether you’re trying to reach the top of a hedge or paint a ceiling, the ladder should rise to the occasion.
- Weight Capacity: A ladder’s weight limit is crucial. We look for those that can handle at least the average weight of an adult, if not more, ensuring they’re suitable for most people and additional equipment.
- Ease of Use: No one wants to wrestle with their ladder. Smooth extension and retraction without jamming or sticking are essential features we evaluate.
- Customer Reviews & Feedback: Besides our hands-on testing, we also consider the experiences and feedback of other users. It gives us a comprehensive understanding of any potential long-term issues or additional benefits that we might not discover in our short-term testing.
Selecting the best telescopic ladders isn’t just about brand names or aesthetics. It’s a combination of safety, functionality, durability, and user-friendliness. Rest assured, when we recommend a product, it’s because we believe it’s one of the best options available to cater to your gardening and DIY needs.
How to Choose The Best Telescopic Ladder
Telescopic ladders are often a lot more convenient than traditional ladders. They’re generally lighter and easier to move around the home, as well as more practical to store and transport.
The following information should help you decide if a telescopic ladder is the right choice for you, as well as what to look out for and avoid:
The Benefits of a Telescopic Ladder
Here are a few reasons why you might consider buying a telescopic ladder:
- Extremely easy storage. Telescopic ladders can be stored just about anywhere. They pack down to heights of around 70 cm meaning they can fit into cupboards, car boots, and even some drawers.
- Easy to transport. Retractable ladders fit easily into a car boot, as well as into large backpacks. As a result, you can carry one with you wherever you need to go.
- Very lightweight. Telescopic ladders can be carried by just one person and their lightweight means they remain relatively easy to manoeuvre even when fully extended.
- Versatile. Retractable ladders can be used in locations where it’s difficult to take a traditional ladder. They can be used in more cramped spots because they don’t have to be extended fully, and they can also be used far away from the car or van without it being labour intensive to get them there.
Buying a Safe Telescopic Ladder
When buying a collapsible ladder, it’s important to make sure that it adheres to safety regulations.
Certifications
If the ladder has an EN 131 certification then it has been confirmed to comply with European law.
You can request the EN 131 certificate from the manufacturer or seller when buying a ladder. This is an extra level of reassurance to make sure that it genuinely meets the requirements.
If you’re looking to use your ladder for professional use, you’ll need to check that it has been approved for this type of work. It will need to EN 131 certified, but also to have undergone other tests. Professional ladders need to adhere to stricter and tougher requirements because they will be put under more strain than domestic ladders.
Safety Features
These are safety features that are often present on telescopic ladders:
- Automatic locking mechanisms – ensure that the rungs are firmly secured into place.
- Dampening or ‘anti-pinch’ systems – protect your hands when collapsing the ladder.
- A stability bar – a bar at the bottom of the ladder that provides extra stability and prevents the ladder from shaking and swaying.
- Slip-resistant rungs
- Grippy rubber feet – usually come in the form of non-slip end caps.
READ NEXT: The Best Folding Ladders
Using Your Telescopic Ladder Safely
Making sure that your extendable ladder has appropriate safety features is one thing, but you can take additional safety precautions when using your telescopic ladder to make it safer.
- Check the maximum load capacity before purchasing a telescopic ladder – Remember that the load capacity includes your weight plus any tools and materials you may be carrying.
- Make sure that any ladder is positioned against a stable and solid surface before climbing. Test the first rung to make sure it is safely locked before climbing up.
- Do not alter the height of the ladder whilst using it. It can be very dangerous to mess with the locking mechanisms whilst the ladder is in use.
- Always place the ladder on firm, flat ground. Don’t use platforms or objects under the ladder to increase its height further.
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