More compact than extension ladders, telescoping ladders lengthen and shorten to meet your specific project needs and collapse down for convenient transport and storage. Telescoping ladders can vary greatly in price depending on their make and model. Light-duty models can be found for under $100, while commercial-grade ladders for job sites can run upwards of $500. Most telescoping ladders fall in the middle of that range.
To help you narrow down your option and pick the best extension ladder for your needs, we researched the top telescoping ladders on the market. Overall, our top choice is the ARCHOM Telescopic Ladder, which is perfect for small or medium-size tasks in and around your home. Read our guide below for more of our top picks.
Best Telescoping Ladders: Our Top 6 Picks
- ARCHOM Telescopic Ladder: Best Overall
- Telesteps Automatic Telescoping Ladder: Most Heavy-Duty Ladder
- Little Giant Ladders Multi-Position Ladder: Most Adjustable
- Xtend & Climb Telescoping Ladder: Most Customizable
- Bowoshen Aluminum Telescoping Extension Ladder: Best Multipurpose Ladder
- TOOLITIN Telescoping Ladder: Best Light Duty
Compare Top Telescoping Ladders
| Product | Size | Load Capacity | Material | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
ARCHOM Telescopic LadderCheck Price | 15 feet | 330 pounds | Aluminum | 27 pounds |
Telesteps Automatic Telescoping LadderCheck Price | 14.5 feet | 300 pounds | Aluminum | 31 pounds |
Little Giant Ladders Multi-Position LadderCheck Price | 17 feet | 300 pounds | Aluminum | 32 pounds |
Xtend & Climb Telescoping LadderCheck Price | 12.5 feet | 225 pounds | Aluminum | 27 pounds |
Bowoshen Aluminum Telescoping Extension LadderCheck Price | 16.5 feet | 330 pounds | Aluminum | 40 pounds |
TOOLITIN Telescoping LadderCheck Price | 8.5 feet | 330 pounds | Aluminum | 15 pounds |
Best Overall
ARCHOM Telescopic Ladder
Good for: Homeowners looking for a high-quality ladder that’s good for medium-sized DIY tasks.
Pros and Cons of ARCHOM Telescopic Ladder
- Is waterproof and corrosion resistant
- Can hold up to 330 pounds
- Is available in several different sizes
- Velcro strap lacks durability
- May not support as much weight as it indicates
What People Are Saying About The ARCHOM Telescopic Ladder
We found that customers who liked this product said it was easily maneuverable, lightweight, and had easily adjustable height levels. On the other hand, other customers felt it closed too quickly, and others felt it could have been sturdier.
Most Heavy-Duty Ladder
Telesteps Automatic Telescoping Ladder
Good for: Homeowners looking for an automatic, commercial-grade telescoping ladder for heavy-duty projects.
Pros and Cons of Telesteps Automatic Telescoping Ladder
- Has wide foothold that can accommodate steel-toe boots
- Is made with durable, high-quality aluminum alloys
- Can telescope from 32.4 inches to up to 14.5 feet in seconds
- Has a high price point
- Has a smaller load capacity than some other, less expensive ladders
What People Are Saying About The Telesteps Automatic Telescoping Ladder
We found that several customers who gave this telescoping ladder a positive review were impressed with its sturdy, durable design, wide steps, and easy locking mechanism. However, several reviewers did comment on the weight of this ladder, feeling it was overly heavy, and others said it had a frustrating design flaw that made it difficult to lower the steps.
Most Adjustable
Little Giant Ladders Multi-Position Ladder
Good for: Customers seeking a highly-adjustable product that can easily change between multiple ladder types.
This ladder doesn’t only serve as a telescoping ladder — it can easily adjust to an extension, A-frame, trestle-and-plank, 90-degree, or staircase ladder, depending on how it’s configured with its rock lock adjusters. This ladder is OSHA- and ANSI-certified and extends up to 17 feet.
Pros and Cons of Little Giant Ladders Multi-Position Ladder
- Is available in multiple sizes
- Includes tip and glide wheels for easy transportation
- Has a durable design with aerospace-grade aluminum construction
- Has a large design that takes up more space than most ladders
- Versatility is not necessary for those only seeking an extension ladder
What People Are Saying About The Little Giant Ladders Multi-Position Ladder
We found that a lot of customers who gave this ladder a positive review loved its versatility and durable, flexible design. Others were impressed with its wheels, noting how easy it was to move from place to place. However, some did note it had a steep learning curve to figure out how to use it correctly, and others felt it was not well-designed for smaller people, noting in particular that the wheels were hard to reach.
Most Customizable
Xtend & Climb Telescoping Ladder
Good for: Homeowners looking for a versatile, customizable ladder that can work for a variety of projects.
We were impressed that this heavy-duty telescoping ladder is available in several series, each of which has its own height and weight capacity to accommodate a variety of projects. This telescoping ladder is a part of Xtend & Climb’s Classic Home Series. This multi-position ladder is good for most household tasks with its 12.5-foot height that shrinks to 2.7 feet in its closed position.
Pros and Cons of Xtend & Climb Telescoping Ladder
- Is compliant with ladder safety standards created by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
- Contracts into a lightweight model that’s easy to store
- Comes with an integrated carrying handle
- Dismantling can be difficult
- Has a high price point
What People Are Saying About The Xtend & Climb Telescoping Ladder
We noted that customers who gave this product a positive review said that it was easy to handle, was long-lasting, and had useful safety features. Alternatively, others who didn’t care for this ladder said that it could be hard to set up, while a few others said it was not easy to collapse.
Best Multipurpose Ladder
Bowoshen Aluminum Telescoping Extension Ladder
Good for: Customers looking for a tall telescoping ladder that can also be used as an A-frame ladder.
This aluminum telescoping ladder can be used straight while leaning against a surface or as an A-frame ladder, allowing it to work in almost any setting. This product can handle any tasks around your home with its maximum height of 16.5 feet as an extension ladder or 8.2 feet as an A-frame ladder. It is also made with durable, high-quality aluminum alloy.
Pros and Cons of Bowoshen Aluminum Telescoping Extension Ladder
- Has a large load capacity
- Is available in multiple sizes
- Has separate mechanical locks on rungs 2–15
- Some customers felt it couldn’t safely operate at its maximum load capacity
- Can be difficult to retract
What People Are Saying About The Bowoshen Aluminum Telescoping Extension Ladder
We found that those who were pleased with this telescoping ladder said that it was made with durable materials, was well-designed, and was easily adjustable. However, we also noticed some customers who said this ladder was unstable, and others felt it was difficult to lock into place.
Best Light Duty
TOOLITIN Telescoping Ladder
Good for: Homeowners who need a small ladder for light-duty household projects.
If you’re not in need of a heavy-duty, tall ladder, and only need something small for basic household DIY projects, this light-duty ladder is a great choice. It has a durable, aluminum construction and an intelligent locking mechanism in each rung that keeps it steady. Additionally, this telescoping ladder features one-button retraction that makes for effortless setup and teardown.
Pros and Cons of TOOLITIN Telescoping Ladder
- Has a lightweight design that’s easy to maneuver
- Plastic parts are reinforced with nylon fiber to improve load capacity and stability
- Is also available in larger sizes
- Doesn’t extend as far as some of the other ladders in thi review
- Closure button can sometimes get stuck
What People Are Saying About The TOOLITIN Telescoping Ladder
Our research showed that many customers who were satisfied with this telescoping ladder liked that it fit well into tight spaces, was easily adjustable, and had a small, lightweight design that was easy to store away. However, a few reviewers who left unsatisfactory reviews had problems with the button release on the rungs jamming, while others were disappointed that it would only lock when fully extended.
What To Know Before Buying a Telescoping Ladder
When choosing the best ladder for you, you’ll first need to consider the height of the areas in your home you need to reach. From there, check the ladder’s duty rating and construction to ensure it meets your safety expectations. You should also consider factors such as the feet and tread design and the ladder’s weight and portability.
Read our buying guide below for more information on how to choose the best telescoping ladder.
Do telescoping ladders all have adjustable heights?
Telescoping ladders will have a maximum height when at full extension. However, you can also open each rung individually, usually in 12-inch increments, allowing you to customize the ladder’s height to fit your needs best.
Some telescoping ladders have limited height (less than 10 feet), which is fine for using on RVs or in other small spaces. However, if you will be working on your roof or another taller area, look for a telescoping ladder that extends 12 feet or more.
What does the duty rating mean on a telescoping ladder?
This rating tells you how much weight your ladder can hold. This refers to your weight plus the weight of any items you bring.
The classes include:
- Type III: This ladder can hold up to 200 pounds
- Type II: This ladder has a maximum weight capacity of 225 pounds
- Type I: This type of ladder has a weight capacity of 250 pounds
- Type IA: These ladders can hold up to 300 pounds
- Type IAA: Ladders with this rating have a maximum capacity of 375 pounds
What are feet and treads of a ladder?
The feet are what keep your ladder stable. Most telescoping ladders have non-slip feet or non-slip end caps made to prevent slipping and ensure your safety.
Are telescoping ladders portable?
The weight and closed size of your ladder will affect portability, as smaller and lighter ladders are easier to carry and store.
Some ladders may also come with cases to keep the ladder clean when it’s not in use.
Material
Most telescoping ladders are made from heavy-duty aluminum, however, some ladders can also be made of fiberglass or even stainless steel. Fiberglass ladders are slightly more durable than aluminum ladders, but they typically weigh several pounds more. Steel ladders are also heavier than aluminum ladders, and this material is typically found in professional-grade products.
Safety Tips for Using a Telescoping Ladder
Using a telescoping ladder — or any ladder for that manner — is something that can’t be done haphazardly. Falling off an unsteady ladder can cause serious injury or even death, so it’s essential to operate the ladder as safely as possible.
Our team gathered the following important safety tips to remember when using a telescoping ladder.
- Choose a sturdy and reliable ladder: Ensure your telescoping ladder is in good condition, with no visible signs of damage or wear. Check for any loose or broken parts before each use, and never use a ladder that appears compromised.
- Pay close attention to your specific ladder’s instructions: Familiarize yourself with the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for your ladder. Pay attention to weight capacity limits, height restrictions, and any recommended safety precautions.
- Set up on a stable surface: Before extending it, ensure that you set up your ladder on a flat and stable surface. Avoid using the ladder on slippery or uneven ground, as this can increase the risk of accidents. If necessary, use a ladder stabilizer or place the ladder on a non-slip mat for added stability. You can also have a friend or family member spotting you in case there is an emergency.
- Maintain three points of contact: Always maintain three points of contact when climbing up or down a telescoping ladder. This means having either two feet and one hand or two hands and one foot in contact with the ladder at all times. This helps provide stability and reduces the chances of falling.
- Extend and retract the ladder carefully: When extending or retracting your telescoping ladder, do it slowly and carefully, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid placing your hands or fingers between the rungs while adjusting the ladder to prevent any pinching injuries. Take your time and ensure that the locking mechanism is secure to ensure ladder safety.
Telescoping Ladder FAQ
What are telescoping ladders made of?
Telescoping ladders are typically made of aluminum. Aluminum is lightweight, affordable, and rust-resistant. However, it can’t hold as much weight as fiberglass, which is used to make standard extension ladders.
How do I safely use my telescoping ladder?
Here are some safety tips for using a telescoping ladder:
- Wear close-toed shoes that won’t slide off your feet.
- Inspect the ladder before every use to ensure it’s working properly.
- Use work gloves for better grip while climbing.
- Use at least one hand to climb the ladder.
- If you need to carry more than one item up the ladder, use a lanyard, a belt hook, or another method to secure the items to your body.
What does it mean if my telescoping ladder meets ANSI or OSHA safety standards?
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) create safety standards for ladders. The ANSI also tests ladders to ensure they meet its standards. Testing isn’t a requirement, so just because a ladder says it meets ANSI or OSHA standards doesn’t mean it has been tested to prove that.
Our Methodology
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY-ers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content. Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home space, including power tools, outdoor equipment, major appliances, kitchen gadgets, electronics, and more that focus on product quality and helpfulness to our readers.
To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of telescoping ladders with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we compared each model’s feature set to create a final short list, selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.