10 Best Stair Lifts (July 2026) Expert Reviews

When stairs become a daily challenge, finding the right mobility solution can mean the difference between staying in your home and having to move. I have spent months researching and comparing stair lifts, stair assist devices, and electric floor lifts to find the options that actually work for real people. After analyzing hundreds of customer reviews, forum discussions on Reddit caregiver communities, and hands-on product details, I put together this guide to the best stair lifts and mobility assist devices available in 2026.

Whether you need a full motorized stair lift that glides along a rail, a portable cane that helps you navigate steps one at a time, or an electric floor lift that helps someone stand after a fall, this guide covers all of them. I looked at weight capacity, safety features, ease of installation, battery backup systems, and real-world reliability to narrow down these 10 products. My goal is simple: help you find the safest, most practical solution for your home and your specific mobility needs.

One thing I noticed from reading through caregiver forums is that many families wait too long to address stair safety. Users on r/eldercare shared stories of loved ones going from barely using the stairs once or twice a week to freely moving between floors multiple times a day after getting the right device. That kind of independence is worth every penny. Let me walk you through the top picks first, then dive into detailed reviews of each product.

Top 3 Picks for Best Stair Lifts and Mobility Devices

Best Stair Lifts and Mobility Devices in 2026

1. AmeriGlide Rave 2 Stair Lift – Best Self-Installable Stair Lift

I was genuinely impressed by how the AmeriGlide Rave 2 changes the game for home stair access. This is a real motorized stair lift that you can install yourself, which is almost unheard of in this category. Most stair lifts require a professional installation that adds thousands to the total cost. The Rave 2 ships with 15 feet of track, a battery-powered chair, and all the mounting hardware you need for a standard straight staircase.

The 350-pound weight capacity handles the vast majority of users comfortably. What I really appreciate is the battery-powered design. The chair charges continuously while parked at the top or bottom of the stairs, so it keeps working even during a power outage. That peace of mind matters when someone depends on this device to get between floors. The swivel seat, flip-up armrests, and footrest safety sensor all work together to make getting on and off safe and straightforward.

Installation is where this product truly shines or frustrates, depending on your approach. Multiple reviewers on Amazon stressed the same advice: watch the installation video before you start, not the printed instructions. The video walks you through each step clearly, while the paper manual leaves out critical details. I read accounts from users who had the entire lift running in a single afternoon with two people. Others struggled with the track junction alignment and cable connections. The lightweight aluminum rail is a big help here since you are not wrestling with heavy steel.

Once installed correctly, the ride quality is where this unit earns its high ratings. Users describe it as smooth and quiet, which is exactly what you want when mobility is already a concern. One caregiver on Reddit mentioned that their mother went from avoiding the stairs entirely to going up and down freely several times a day. The wireless call stations at the top and bottom let you summon the chair to whichever floor you need it on, which is a thoughtful touch.

Who should consider this stair lift

The AmeriGlide Rave 2 is ideal for homeowners with a straight staircase who want to avoid professional installation costs. It works best for users up to 350 pounds who have a family member or friend available to help with the setup process. If you are comfortable with basic home improvement tasks and can follow along with video instructions, this lift offers tremendous value compared to dealer-installed alternatives that run several thousand dollars more.

Who might want to look elsewhere

This is a straight-stair-only lift, so anyone with a curved staircase, intermediate landing, or spiral stairs will need a different solution. It also requires someone reasonably handy for installation. If you or your family are not comfortable with tools and assembly, paying more for a professional installation might save headaches. The shorter power cord also means you need an outlet relatively close to where the rail ends.

2. Universal Stair Lift – Made in America with Battery Backup

The Universal Stair Lift takes a straightforward approach to home stair mobility. Built in America with 350-pound capacity and 15 feet of included track, it covers the basics well. What caught my attention is the internal rechargeable battery backup that can handle up to 20 round trips during a power outage. That is more than enough for most households to get through an evening without electricity. The lift plugs directly into any standard AC outlet with no special wiring needed.

The fold-flat design is a genuine advantage for households where other people still use the stairs regularly. When the seat and armrests fold up, the unit sits close to the wall and leaves plenty of room for others to walk past. Installation works on either side of the staircase, giving you flexibility based on your home layout. The three built-in safety mechanisms and wireless remote controls at both ends round out a solid feature set.

The main frustration with this lift comes during assembly. Multiple Amazon reviewers described the instructions as vague and unhelpful, with several noting you absolutely need two people for installation. I read reports of squeaking during operation that required applying lithium grease to the gear rack. Some users also mentioned quality control issues with the track junction not aligning perfectly. Once properly set up and lubricated, however, most owners report the lift works reliably day after day.

The plastic components drew some criticism for feeling less premium than competitors. A few users noted the arms do not fold up as completely as the product description suggests. At the same time, many reviewers pointed out the lift is a good value when compared to the cost of dealer-installed brands. If you are willing to put in the assembly effort and handle minor adjustments, this American-made lift delivers dependable performance at a reasonable price point.

Ideal users for this lift

The Universal Stair Lift suits budget-conscious buyers who want a full motorized stair lift and are comfortable with a more hands-on installation process. It is a strong choice for anyone who values American manufacturing and needs reliable battery backup for power outages. Homes with a straight staircase and standard outlet access nearby will get the most from this unit.

When to consider alternatives

If you need a product that works perfectly right out of the box without any tinkering, the assembly challenges and potential squeaking might frustrate you. Users who are not mechanically inclined or do not have a helper for installation should look at professionally installed options. The 3.9-star rating reflects these setup difficulties more than the day-to-day operation once everything is properly configured.

3. EZ-STEP Stair Climbing Assist Cane – Most Affordable Mobility Aid

The EZ-STEP takes a completely different approach to stair mobility. Instead of a motorized chair, this is a portable cane with a half-step platform that gives you an intermediate resting point on each stair. At just 2 pounds, you can carry it anywhere in the house or take it with you when visiting family. It folds down to 29 inches for easy storage and extends to 39 inches for use. This is the kind of solution that works well for someone who has mild to moderate difficulty with stairs but does not need a full motorized lift.

I read through dozens of reviews from seniors who found this device genuinely helpful for navigating steps, curbs, and sidewalks. The diamond-shaped tread surface and non-slip rubber feet provide decent grip on most surfaces. Several users mentioned it was particularly useful for pool stairs and outdoor steps where handrails are not available. The fact that it is made in the USA and comes in multiple colors including Purple, Pink, and Aluminum adds a nice personal touch.

The biggest limitation is stability. The 2-pound weight that makes it so portable also means it can feel wobbly underfoot. Multiple reviewers noted that a screw loosens repeatedly during use and needs tightening. This is clearly not the right choice for anyone with serious balance issues or significant leg weakness. It is also noticeably slower than motorized options since you are still climbing each step manually, just with an intermediate resting point.

For the price point, though, the EZ-STEP provides real value. It is a low-cost way to test whether a stair assist device helps before investing thousands in a motorized lift. The 584 reviews with a 4.2-star average tell me that most buyers understand what they are getting and find it useful. Think of it as a stepping stone between using the stairs unassisted and needing a full chair lift system.

Who benefits most from this device

The EZ-STEP works best for seniors with mild knee pain or reduced stamina who can still walk but need a little help managing stairs. It is also useful for people recovering from knee or hip surgery who are regaining strength. The portability makes it a smart choice for anyone who needs stair assistance in multiple locations, not just at home.

Who should skip this product

Anyone with significant balance problems, severe arthritis in the legs, or a history of falls should look at more robust motorized options instead. The wobbly feedback from some users means this device requires a baseline level of stability to use safely. It is also not suitable for anyone who cannot bear weight on their legs at all.

4. HeywoodCabin Adjustable Stair Climbing Assist Cane – Budget-Friendly Stability

The HeywoodCabin stair climbing assist cane is a more heavy-duty take on the portable stair assist concept. Built from carbon steel with an anti-rust coating, it supports up to 300 pounds across 20 adjustable height levels ranging from 35 to 45 inches. That adjustability means it adapts to different step heights, which matters because not all stairs are built to the same dimensions. The four non-slip rubber feet grip onto stairs of any material including wood, tile, and carpet.

What stood out to me in the reviews is how many users described this device as life-changing. One reviewer wrote that it gave them back their independence after struggling with stairs for months. The ergonomic anti-slip foam handle reduces hand fatigue, and the slim design stands upright without blocking pathways. At 4.5 pounds, it is heavier than the EZ-STEP but still manageable for most users to move between locations.

Assembly is the main pain point. Some users reported difficulty putting it together, with holes that do not align perfectly for height adjustments. The instructions are not as clear as they should be. One important tip from multiple reviewers: do not remove the white plastic spacer designed to reduce wobbling. Several people removed it thinking it was packaging material and regretted it. Once assembled correctly, though, the stability is rock-solid.

The HeywoodCabin sits in an interesting sweet spot between the ultra-light EZ-STEP and full motorized lifts. It costs remarkably little while providing meaningful stair assistance. The trade-off is that you still need decent leg strength and balance to use it since you are actively climbing stairs with its help rather than being carried. For many seniors with moderate mobility challenges, that is exactly what they need.

Best use cases for this cane

This cane is ideal for seniors who need more stability than a standard cane provides but are not ready for a motorized stair lift. The 20 height adjustments make it versatile for homes with uneven step heights or different staircase configurations. It is also a practical choice for anyone on a tight budget who needs immediate stair assistance.

Limitations to be aware of

The HeywoodCabin cannot double as a walking cane, so you will need a separate mobility aid for walking around the house. At 4.5 pounds, some elderly users may find it tiring to carry up and down stairs repeatedly. It also requires some grip strength and arm stability to position correctly on each step.

5. VOCIC Upgrade Electric Chair Lift AX10 – Best Floor Recovery Lift

The VOCIC AX10 solves a problem that many families do not think about until it happens: what do you do when an elderly parent falls and cannot get up from the floor? This electric chair lift gently raises someone from a seated position on the floor to a standing height of nearly 20 inches. With 365 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, it is the top-rated product in the Lift Chairs category for good reason. It requires zero assembly right out of the box.

I was struck by how many reviewers described this device as literally life-saving. One caregiver wrote that before getting the AX10, they had to call 911 every time their mother fell. Now she can press a button on the hand remote and lift herself independently. The IP68 waterproof rating means it works safely in bathrooms, which is where many falls happen. Two types of suction cups are included so it grips securely on tile, hardwood, carpet, and bathtub surfaces.

The lifting mechanism adjusts the seat height from 2.9 inches off the floor all the way up to 19.7 inches. That range covers everything from a very low seated position to a comfortable transfer height for standing. The rechargeable battery in the hand control means you do not need to keep it plugged in all the time. Multiple users confirmed the battery holds enough charge for dozens of lift cycles between charges.

The main drawbacks are weight and maneuverability. At 27.8 pounds, it is not something most elderly users can move around easily by themselves. The wheels help, but they are small and struggle on thick carpet. A few users also noted there is no good place to store the remote when not in use, which seems like a minor complaint but matters for daily usability. Despite these issues, the overwhelming consensus from reviewers is that this device provides independence and dignity that was previously impossible.

Who this floor lift is designed for

The VOCIC AX10 is perfect for seniors who live alone or with a spouse who cannot physically lift them after a fall. It is also valuable for anyone recovering from hip or knee surgery who may need help getting up from low surfaces. The waterproof design makes it especially useful for households where bathroom falls are a concern.

Situations where this might not fit

If the user has severe cognitive impairment like advanced dementia and cannot follow simple directions to operate the remote, this device may not be suitable. The 300-pound capacity covers most users but may not be sufficient for bariatric patients. Also, anyone who needs a stair climbing solution rather than a floor recovery tool should look at the motorized stair lifts instead.

6. HUANUO 2-in-1 Electric Chair Lift – Floor and Bath Lift Combined

The HUANUO 2-in-1 Electric Chair Lift does something clever by combining floor lifting and bathtub lifting into one device. The six heavy-duty industrial-grade suction cups create an extremely stable base on wet surfaces, which sets it apart from competitors with fewer or smaller suction cups. With a 4.5-star rating across 240 reviews, users consistently praise its solid construction and dual-purpose functionality.

What makes this lift unique is the automatic backrest that shifts from a 140-degree reclined position to a 93-degree upright angle during the lifting motion. This means the user starts in a comfortable, supported position and ends up in an upright seated position ready to stand. The contoured seat groove adds comfort during what can otherwise be an awkward transfer. The height range from 2.3 to 18.9 inches covers the full spectrum from near-floor to standing transfer height.

The folding design is a genuine advantage. It collapses to just 6.4 inches thick with built-in carry handles, making it easy to store in a closet or under a bed when not in use. The high-capacity lithium battery in the remote provides over 50 lift cycles per 2.5-hour charge. LED indicators on the remote show battery status at a glance, which is a nice touch for daily use. The one-touch controls for lift, lower, and emergency stop keep operation simple even for users with limited dexterity.

Assembly is required, which is the main downside compared to the VOCIC AX10 that works right out of the box. Some users also mentioned the unit feels heavy when moving it between rooms. However, the fold-flat design makes storage much more practical than non-folding alternatives. The 308-pound capacity is the highest among the floor lifts in this price range, making it suitable for a wider range of users.

Perfect scenarios for this dual lift

The HUANUO is the best choice for households where both floor recovery and bathtub transfers are needed. If someone in your home has difficulty getting in and out of the tub as well as rising from the floor, this single device handles both tasks. It is also ideal for smaller homes where storage space is limited thanks to the fold-flat design.

When to consider other options

If you only need fall recovery assistance and never plan to use it in the bathtub, the VOCIC AX10 offers a simpler no-assembly experience. The HUANUO also requires a flat, firm surface for the suction cups to grip properly, so very plush carpeting may reduce stability during lifts.

7. VOCIC Lightweight Electric Chair Lift AX07 – Lightest Floor Lift

The VOCIC AX07 earns its lightweight title at just 23 pounds, making it 30% lighter than most competing floor lifts. That weight difference matters when you or a caregiver needs to move the device between rooms regularly. Despite the lighter frame, it still supports up to 300 pounds and maintains the IP68 waterproof rating that makes it safe for bathroom use. The leather seat pad is comfortable and easy to remove for cleaning.

With 391 reviews and a 4.3-star average, the AX07 is one of the most popular floor lifts on the market. Many reviewers praised it specifically for being manageable enough for an elderly person to reposition on their own. The six suction cups hold firm on tile, wood floors, and bathtub surfaces. The rechargeable remote control keeps operation simple with a straightforward up and down function.

The absence of armrests is the most significant trade-off. Without arms, some users find it harder to position themselves correctly on the seat before lifting. This is especially true for anyone with upper body weakness or limited coordination. A few reviewers also mentioned the unit felt heavier than they expected based on the 23-pound specification, likely because the weight distribution is concentrated in the base.

For the price, the AX07 delivers excellent value. It ranked number 3 in the Lift Chairs category on Amazon at the time of my research. The one-year after-sales service with replacement option provides some peace of mind. If you need a floor lift that is easy to move between rooms and does not require significant storage space, this is one of the strongest options available.

Who this lightweight lift suits best

The AX07 is ideal for users who need to move their floor lift between rooms frequently. Its lighter weight makes it more practical for single caregivers or elderly users who live alone. If bathroom fall recovery is a priority and you need something you can easily place in a tub area, the waterproof design and suction cup base handle that well.

Drawbacks to consider

The lack of armrests makes this a poor choice for anyone who needs physical support getting onto the seat. Users with significant upper body weakness or coordination challenges may struggle with the armless design. If positioning assistance is important, the SuperHandy GoRise with its foldable armrests would be a better match.

8. SuperHandy GoRise FC Electric Floor to Chair Lift – Heavy Duty Pick

The SuperHandy GoRise FC stands out immediately with its 400-pound lifting capacity, the highest in this entire roundup. Built by Great Circle Machinery Corporation, a company that makes heavy equipment, the engineering quality shows. With 84% of reviews giving it 5 stars and an overall 4.6 rating, this is the highest-rated product in the group. The dual power system means it works on rechargeable battery or AC power, so a dead battery never leaves you stranded.

The magnetic remote attachment is a small detail that makes a big difference in daily use. Instead of fumbling to find or store the remote, it magnetically attaches to the frame so it is always right where you need it. Foldable armrests make transfers easier by giving users something to hold onto while getting on and off, then folding out of the way for caregivers. The quick-release safety belt prevents slipping during the lift cycle.

At nearly 53 pounds, this is the heaviest lift in the group by a significant margin. Moving it between rooms requires strength or a second person. Some reviewers noted that only the TX model includes front wheels, while the FS model does not, so pay close attention to which version you are ordering. Assembly requires a 13mm wrench that is not included in the package. These are not dealbreakers, but they are real considerations for elderly users or solo caregivers.

The trade-off for that weight is exceptional stability and lifting power. The contoured seat has a slight forward slope that helps users maintain balance during the lift. One reviewer described the operation as buttery smooth, which is high praise from someone who has likely tried other devices. For bariatric users or anyone who has been frustrated by the 300-pound limit of other floor lifts, the GoRise FC removes that ceiling entirely.

Who should invest in this heavy-duty lift

The SuperHandy GoRise FC is the clear choice for bariatric users or anyone over 300 pounds who needs a reliable floor recovery solution. It is also ideal for households where maximum stability is the top priority, such as users with severe mobility limitations. The dual power system makes it dependable even for users who might forget to charge the battery regularly.

When the weight might be a problem

If you need to move the lift between rooms frequently and do not have someone strong available to help, the 53-pound weight will be a real obstacle. It is also not the best choice for anyone on a tighter budget since it sits at a higher price point. Users who only need occasional fall recovery assistance may find a lighter model more practical for daily life.

9. VOCIC Electric Chair Lift AX25 – Compact with Large Wheels

The VOCIC AX25 solves a real problem with floor lifts: getting onto the seat in the first place. Its ground clearance of just 2.3 inches is 50% lower than most competitors, which means a fallen user does not have to lift themselves as high to get seated. That may sound like a small difference, but for someone who has just fallen and is in pain or distress, every inch matters. The T-stabilized base and aluminum alloy legs provide a stable, lightweight platform rated for 350 pounds.

The 4-inch casters are noticeably larger than the wheels on most competing lifts, making it easier to roll across different floor surfaces. Users can position the lift next to a fallen person, help them onto the low seat, and then raise them to standing height. When not in use, the entire unit folds flat for storage under a bed or in a closet. The industry-leading one-year warranty with 24/7 expert support adds confidence to the purchase.

The 14-inch seat width is the main complaint from reviewers. For larger users, this narrow seat makes positioning uncomfortable and transfers more difficult. There are also no brakes on the wheels, which means the chair can potentially slide during transfer if the floor surface is very smooth. Some users described the lifting speed as slower than expected, though this is a minor complaint compared to the overall functionality.

With 76% of reviewers giving it 5 stars and a 4.5 overall rating, the AX25 clearly works well for its intended audience. The combination of ultra-low ground clearance and large casters makes it one of the most practical floor lifts for users who need to mount the seat from a very low position. If you or a loved one has limited upper body strength and struggles to get onto standard-height lift seats, this design addresses that problem directly.

Best situations for this compact lift

The AX25 shines in homes where a fallen user has limited upper body strength and struggles to climb onto taller lift seats. The ultra-low 2.3-inch clearance minimizes the effort needed to get seated. It is also great for homes with limited storage space since it folds flat. The large casters make it practical for moving between rooms on hard flooring.

Where this lift falls short

Anyone with a wider build may find the 14-inch seat too narrow for comfort and safety. The lack of wheel brakes is a genuine safety concern on very smooth surfaces like polished tile. If you need a lift for bathtub use as well, you should consider the VOCIC AX10 or HUANUO instead since the AX25 is designed for dry floor use.

10. VOCIC Movable Electric Chair Lift AX35 – Rolling Transport Lift

The VOCIC AX35 takes the floor lift concept and adds true portability with its four-wheel transport system. Unlike other lifts that you carry or drag between rooms, the AX35 lets you roll a seated user from one room to another. This makes it a hybrid between a floor recovery lift and a short-distance transport chair. The secure wheel locks keep it stable during lifting, and the T-stabilized base prevents tipping under the full 350-pound capacity.

The soft polyurethane foam seat is more comfortable than the basic pads on some competing models, which matters for anyone who spends time being transported between rooms. Fold-down armrests give users something to hold during transfers, and the seat belt provides an extra layer of security during the lifting cycle. At 32 pounds, it strikes a reasonable balance between being sturdy enough for safe lifting and light enough for caregivers to manage.

The four-wheel system is both the AX35’s biggest advantage and its most notable limitation. Being able to transport someone from a bedroom to a bathroom without a separate wheelchair is incredibly convenient. However, the front wheels do not turn, which makes steering and maneuvering in tight spaces feel clumsy. Several reviewers described it as pushing a shopping cart with locked front wheels, which requires more space for turns than you might expect.

The seat does not lower all the way to the floor, which is an important distinction from the AX25 model. Users need some ability to lift themselves the last few inches to get seated. With an 80% five-star rating and the number 2 spot in Amazon’s Lift Chairs category, the AX35 clearly satisfies most buyers despite these compromises. The one-year warranty with 24/7 support matches VOCIC’s consistent warranty offering across their product line.

When this rolling lift is the right choice

The AX35 is perfect for caregivers who need to move a mobility-limited person between rooms regularly. If you are currently using a wheelchair for short-distance transport and a separate device for standing assistance, this combines both functions. It is also useful in care facilities where multiple transfers happen throughout the day.

Limitations that might matter

The non-turning front wheels make tight hallway navigation frustrating. If your home has narrow doorways or sharp corners, you may struggle with steering. Users who need a device that drops all the way to floor level for mounting should look at the AX25 instead. The AX35 also requires the user to follow basic directions, so it is not appropriate for someone with advanced cognitive decline.

How to Choose the Right Stair Mobility Solution

Picking the right stair mobility product starts with understanding what type of help you or your loved one actually needs. I found through my research that there are three distinct categories of stair mobility products, and each one serves a different level of need. Matching the product type to the user’s actual abilities is the single most important factor in making a good choice.

Full Motorized Stair Lifts

Full stair lifts like the AmeriGlide Rave 2 and Universal Stair Lift are motorized chairs that travel along a rail mounted to your staircase. They are the right choice when someone cannot climb stairs at all or when climbing stairs poses an unacceptable fall risk. These products handle the entire process of moving between floors with no physical effort from the user beyond sitting down and pressing a button. The trade-off is higher cost and the need for installation, even with self-installable models.

Stair Assist Canes and Devices

Products like the EZ-STEP and HeywoodCabin canes provide a middle ground for users who can still walk but need help managing stairs safely. These are manual devices that create an intermediate step or provide extra stability on each stair. They cost far less than motorized options and require no installation. The catch is that the user must have enough leg strength, balance, and coordination to use them effectively. These work well as a first step before a full stair lift becomes necessary.

Electric Floor Lifts for Fall Recovery

The VOCIC, HUANUO, and SuperHandy floor lifts solve a different problem entirely. Rather than helping someone navigate stairs, they help someone get up from the floor after a fall. For elderly individuals living alone, a fall can mean lying on the floor for hours waiting for help. These devices restore independence by allowing users to lift themselves safely. Some models also work in bathtubs, which adds another layer of safety in the most fall-prone room of the house.

Key Features to Compare

No matter which type of product you choose, there are several features worth comparing carefully. Weight capacity should exceed the user’s weight by a comfortable margin. Battery backup is essential for stair lifts so they work during power outages. Waterproof ratings matter for any device used in bathrooms. Ease of assembly and installation varies dramatically between products, so factor in whether you have someone available to help. Finally, warranty coverage and customer support quality can make a real difference if something goes wrong months or years after purchase.

Medicare and Insurance Coverage

One question that comes up constantly in caregiver forums is whether Medicare covers stair lifts. The short answer is that Original Medicare does not cover stair lifts because they are classified as home modifications rather than medical equipment. However, Medicare Advantage plans sometimes include benefits for home modifications or durable medical equipment. It is worth checking with your specific plan. Some states also have Medicaid waiver programs or grants through Area Agencies on Aging that can help with costs. Veterans may qualify for assistance through the VA. Always explore these options before paying entirely out of pocket.

FAQs

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Stair Lift

Finding the right stair mobility solution comes down to honestly assessing what you or your loved one needs right now. For full stair independence on a straight staircase, the AmeriGlide Rave 2 delivers the best combination of value and performance among self-installable motorized lifts. If budget is the primary concern and the user still has reasonable mobility, the EZ-STEP and HeywoodCabin canes provide meaningful assistance at a fraction of the cost.

For fall recovery and bathroom safety, the VOCIC and HUANUO floor lifts offer independence that can be genuinely life-changing. I heard from multiple reviewers who described these devices as giving them back their dignity after months of needing to call for help every time they fell. No matter which product you choose, the most important thing is taking action before a fall happens rather than after. The best stair lifts and mobility devices are the ones that are already in place when you need them.