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What’s the difference between an articulated boom and a telescopic boom?

Sep. 24 2025 Buying Guide By Cues Equipment

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Articulated Boom vs. Telescopic Boom: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to aerial lifts, two terms dominate equipment searches: articulated boom and telescopic boom. If you’ve ever shopped for a boom lift, rented a bucket truck, or compared specs online, you’ve probably asked yourself: "What’s the difference between an articulated boom and a telescopic boom?"

The answer can have a significant impact on productivity, safety, and cost. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences in design, reach, applications, safety considerations, and cost factors—so you can make the right choice for your worksite.

Quick Overview

  • Articulated Boom (Knuckle Boom):
    Designed with multiple hinged sections, allowing it to bend and maneuver around obstacles.

  • Telescopic Boom (Stick Boom):
    Extends in a straight, telescoping line for maximum height and horizontal outreach.

Both are invaluable in construction, utilities, tree care, and maintenance—but they shine in different scenarios.

What Is an Articulated Boom?

An articulated boom lift, also known as a knuckle boom, is designed for flexibility and precision. The boom arm has multiple joints that bend like a human arm, allowing it to “articulate” around barriers.

Advantages of Articulated Booms

  • Obstacle navigation: Perfect for reaching over fences, trees, or power lines.

  • Compact setup: Smaller footprint makes it easier to use in urban or tight spaces.

  • Versatile positioning: Operators can move the bucket or platform in multiple directions.

Common Applications

  • Utility line repair and electrical work.

  • Tree trimming and landscaping.

  • Building maintenance in crowded urban areas.

  • Window cleaning on irregular structures.

What Is a Telescopic Boom?

A telescopic boom lift, often called a stick boom, prioritizes height and horizontal reach. Its straight arm sections extend outward like a telescope, providing a direct line to the work area.

Advantages of Telescopic Booms

  • Maximum outreach: Offers the longest horizontal extension of any boom type.

  • Efficiency: Extends quickly with minimal setup adjustments.

  • Stability: Strong and steady for tall, straight-up applications.

Common Applications

  • Construction projects with open access.

  • Roofing, siding, or large-scale building work.

  • Bridge inspections.

  • High-reach tasks in wide, unobstructed areas.

Final Thoughts

Both articulated booms and telescopic booms are essential in industries ranging from utilities to construction.

  • Choose an articulated boom if flexibility and maneuverability around obstacles are critical.

  • Choose a telescopic boom if maximum reach and efficiency in open spaces are the priority.

At the end of the day, the “best” lift depends on your job requirements, site conditions, and budget. Many companies invest in both to cover every scenario.