The BEST Drywall Lift FACE OFF

[@GusScottExley]

I love your videos and while I dont think anyone would argue that the red one is clearly inferior. I feel like when you put the yellow one together in your normal professional manner but as soon as you get to the red one you were like one of those folks on a bad infomercial that forgets how to do the most basic things, pretty disappointing TBH.

[@juliojimenez9968]

I saw it too

[@thewayidoit8895]

Sad, Jeff is a good man. It like your mom giving off those bad vibes when she doesn't like something

[@mattyyoungcloudsart3008]

haha! Totally felt the same. Obviously the cheaper one is gonna be inferior. Its about whether or not it'll do the same job not whether or not its better.

[@michaelnoone1565]

Yeppp. Felt like this was a sponsored video where he wanted to make the sponsor look good.

[@lkripppler]

Thanks, Saved me watching the video. I've had the Chinese one for 4 years, done around 6 houses with it and still going strong.

[@ironmanonaninja3025]

I bought a similar lift from Harbor Freight, works fine.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

I have been seeing a lot of good comments about the harbor freight model. Anyone buy the amazon unit? I am wondering what your experience is with that one. cheers!

[@publicmail2]

Had a cheap Chinese one on site we lifted a load up about 10 feet albeit overloaded it snapped and decapped a worker, his head rolled down off the landing and fell to the first floor out the door and into the street! A delivery truck ran it over and then a blacktop crew using a bomag roller ran it over. We call him headless Joe, he's still collecting workers comp.

[@kakakmen999]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY I`ve used a very similar model to the red one on my home renovation/DIY project for almost two years. It has worked fine for my use, although I`m cautious of not overloading or over stretching it. Would defiantly not use it day-to-day and lug it in and out of a van, but for the 150 USD I paid for it, it`s done reasonably well.

[@gummislayer1969]

@@publicmail2 Buuhahahaaaa!!! Good one!!! 🤣🤣🤣

[@kenwhittaker4972]

@@publicmail2 Yes!!!! I needed this comment!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

This is not a paid product placement. Just Me trying to help you protect yourselves from a bad investment!

[@publicmail2]

That was obvious, as if it was paid at least from the china one, you would've had nothing but positive things to say. Just joking of course. But all kidding aside, you should make a gag reel of the chinese one, like supports swinging around and hitting you in the head, stuff like that, and then blaming it on product, it could be hilarious because no one would expect it from you.

[@onebook4837]

They stole a lot of our technology. They just changed a few things to make it seem original.

[@DCHOY1]

I've used both but I have a better China made product and cheaper than the one you used. China can make whatever quality you want cheaper but its the importer who decides what they want built and at what price. All in all a great clip but emphasizing or suggesting China made items are poor is not proper.

[@pierre-marcrioux5015]

@@onebook4837 Only thing comes from China... Fireworks. Period. They don't invent, they steal, cheaperize it and invade the World with those cheap knockoffs.

[@JCBuild]

Ive had the cheap version for 6 years now. Still as good as day one. £170 and i have used it on builds and conversions, around 1000 boards lifted and fitted with it.

[@thewayidoit8895]

Thank You

[@tomawboss7513]

I have the $200 Harbor Freight Lift. Works well, easy to put together. I felt you were playing to the camera while installing the "Red" lift in order to make a point. Any awkwardness in operating it or putting it together, if any, is worth it. There is a break on the lift and will only come down when the break is off, even if the cable snaps. Further more, there is not enough tension on the cable to "slice you right open". When the cable starts to show wear, replace it. I've been using it for years and will continue to do so.

[@cambiumguy]

Diasppointed in your bias. THese are 2 differents machines for different market pro vs homeowner. I have used a homeowner version purchased at Rona for under 200$, It is solid, worked well for drywall and even plywood. I have used it probably 20 times in the last 15 years. I stored it in an heated barn and it has no rust,still works great and beats the 800$ of rental fees I would have paid. Almost seems you were paid by the American made model.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Not a bias. Homeowners face this dilemma. buy cheap or rent. I am trying to show the options so they are not disappointed with the purchase.

[@franccamaj488]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY -I have to agree with Cambium Guy. These units can still be purchased for around $200 today at Home Depot. I have a version of the red hoist and is just now breaking down after 20 years of use (25-30 projects). That’s a way better for the average diy’er.. you did come across as if you were paid, it literally went from how wonderful everything was with the yellow one to everything wrong with the red. The red CRUSHES the yellow for value.

[@michaelnoone1565]

This felt like a hit piece more than a comparison. Like sure the American made one is almost for sure better. But I didn't see anything immediately wrong with the Amazon one for the average DIYer. It would be more useful to actually test these to failure to show inadequacies. Or even test them with actual drywall panels on them! I think you can do better.

[@esexavo]

they are 199 in amazon, I got one it wells for 399, i got it new for 120 from facebook market place, I am building a house, it wasn’t as cheap as this one, the wire was thicker, wheel was bigger, it actually locks very tightly , you really have to muscle it out of lock which i like, metal frames are thick and heavy. I hung a 1900 sqft home with one of these, now i have one for my next build

[@oakoliver7183]

Definitely a hit piece. Just bought one for $200. Went together easily and helped me up up a dozen sheets of drywall by lunchtime with no help. Not a single problem and the thing will last longer than me.

[@jessebuck90]

I have a similar one from Harbor freight, but much better built, extra safeties built in, 150 bucks. Did my whole house with it. Still works awesome. But it's heavier gauge steel construction, better crank wheel. Still cable drive, but doesn't have rubbing issues. If you spent 400 on that you got the SHAFT.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

No doubt that was why I was so not impressed with it. I decided to buy it so that I could see what you get. The picture on Amazon seems so enticing. Now I know a picture can be very deceitful. cheers!

[@stich1960]

Same, as a general contractor I have put it through its paces, I dont do enough drywall to make the 1000 make sense. The cheap ones take some getting used to but I feel safe using it even with 12 footers. 400 was a rip off, maybe check out princess auto (I think they are the same as Harbor Freight)

[@RRachwal21]

I bought one similar to the red one at Harbor Freight for about $200. It works well. Now if I was doing this more often I would have bought the better one. However I have no complaints about the cheap one.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers Robert the consensus is that the HF unit is definitely a better unit and worth the investment. Cheers!

[@alecbosse6425]

I have one of the Chinese Styled Ones that I bought locally at a hardware store in Toronto for about $200. It is a bit scary to use at first, but it worked out fine for me on several projects including rooms with 11ft ceilings. I personally think I got my money's worth from it. Would I prefer the higher quality one? Sure. But with care, the other was a good investment as it was less expensive than renting one for several times I needed it.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Thanks for sharing that info Alec, did you get it from Amazon or some other source. please let us know the brand name on it. not all Chinese products are the same.

[@publicmail2]

Had a cheap Chinese one on site we lifted a load up about 10 feet albeit overloaded it snapped and decapped a worker, his head rolled down off the landing and fell to the first floor out the door and into the street! A delivery truck ran it over and then a blacktop crew using a bomag roller ran it over. We call him headless Joe, he's still collecting workers comp.

[@misplacedface2752]

@@publicmail2 this is real?

[@publicmail2]

@@misplacedface2752 Yes tragic isn't it?

[@whodat92]

@@publicmail2 how many times you gonna post that overused comment that is low level funny?

[@jakeschroeder1553]

I see how the yellow one would be safer however plenty of tools use cable/chain under tension (winch, come-a-long, load binder). They all work. Bottom line, you get what you pay for.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

It was the relative small gauge of the wire that scared the heck out of me. Cheers!

[@lespotter4352]

I'm looking for a yellow version myself. Agree the red unsafe and cable too thin

[@hubberjub]

I bought one of the $150 jacks off of Amazon to help while I renovated two apartments in a building I bought last year. It looks just like the red one in your video. The only major issue with mine was the latching mechanism on the base doesn't lock the wheels into place. Honestly, it's been great for me because I work alone, and doing ceilings is a PITA. I know it's not a professional tool, but it has more than earned its keep.

[@dolphinarentfish]

I used the Chinese one two weeks ago that I bought for $170+tax brand new here in Toronto. Had to lift a cut a 4x12 sheet of 1/2 around a wall and used 2 4x8 sheets of 3/4 plywood to support the drywall so it wouldn't snap at the cut out notch for the wall. It lifted all that plus about 30 pounds of zip tied water bottles I used for balancing not problem so I'm pretty sure it would be totally fine for an average DIY looking to lift 4x8 sheets of drywall 8 or 9 feet.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Thanks for that. I have no personal experience with this model. Nor do I have any plans of ever using it. Glad to hear that it works.

[@tonywagner4836]

i did a 3700sq ft building using the cheapy model with the extension that allowed me to do a 14' cathedral with no problems . it is clearly not as well made as the pro model but it does function . you do need to be sure that your sheets are centered on the lift. The chance of ever snaping that cable at 150lbs is zero. The real issue is stability at height with long (14') sheets and the wheels not always lockimg up properly and having the lift creep a little out of position. especially on sloped ceilings. Both issues are manageable. Having said that, in hindsight, i would have saved time using the pro model. This week, i have two one room drywall projects and will use the light weight version.

[@streetfiremkv12]

Dramatic much? Lol. The one I rented from homedepot had the same lifting mechanism that te Chinese one does. I used it for days an had 0 problems. For real I think you were super dramatic about the chinese one. I would use that no problem

[@1971mav]

@@ChrisZomboid Grrrrrr. I'm angry about some stupid video.

[@yrulooknatme]

@@ChrisZomboid ...Hey like he said, You've been warned... Pros don't need to take chances..I new a big man who was on one of those cheap ass extension ladders working on a gutter, single story construction. The ladder buckled and he spend the rest of his days watching life from a hospital bed in his living room. The heavy gauge metal on those telepro lifts make them damn near impossible to damage. ( not to mention the steel is better and the welds are much stronger.) It's only wise to work as safe as possible... I doubt if you could legally take one of those chinalifts on a real job. I imagine Osha would not be very happy.

[@dh66]

@@yrulooknatme OSHA doesn't have a say in the equipment you use unless it's a safety device or was modified and is unsafe, ie: guards removed etc.

[@Jrfusion08]

@@dh66 Not entirely true. A vehicle isn't technically a safety device or would qualify as an item that's been "modified" but OSHA standards still apply. I think the poster is implying many of the Chinese products wouldn't meet the safety standards of OSHA and thus would be flagged on construction sites as unsafe to use and subject companies to lawsuits. Therefore, OSHA does have "some say" in what you use as it has to meet safety standards (regardless of whether it's a safety device or been modified).

[@yrulooknatme]

@@dh66...I didn't know if that type of equipment needed certification.. That makes sense what you said ... thanks..

[@seanr6314]

I’ve been watching your videos and I think they are great, but this one looked like a corny infomercial. Overly acted on how bad the cheaper version was. I’ve used the cheaper one, mainly because I only needed it for one basement ....and it worked fine.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

There are cheaper ones out there. But this one specifically is for sale on Amazon. It is junk. I would suggest buying the cheaper one from harbor freight. it has good reviews from our community. Cheers!

[@ssmoot78]

I’ve bought a similar one from Amazon, except it was yellow and the pin on the crossbar wasn’t painted. The bar definitely weighs more than 5lbs. I agree it’s a scary tool that feels like you could lose a finger if you’re not careful. But for me? A DIYer that only needs maybe a couple dozen sheets total? Totally worth the $169USD I paid for it. That’s gotta be much cheaper than renting as I renovate room by room over the course of months. At $400 there’s no way I’d consider it. And if I were a professional using it on a regular basis, then I’d get the quality version of course. It’s only a matter of time, and $1,000 is a lot cheaper than trying to get a finger stitched back on in the US.

[@MohamedAli-py8lo]

You're right

[@ahmedabuseyam2354]

I did got one and it's $180 from harbor freight tools and it's working fine

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers, I have been hearing good things about the harbor freight unit. not the same thing!

[@Psychlist1972]

Not sure why the agenda against Amazon. They also sell the Panellift 439, "Made in America" chain-driven drywall lifter, delivered. Took 2 seconds to find it. My local hardware stores carry cheap stuff for rentals. It's typically pretty abused as well. Retail, they sell both the expensive one and the cheap ones. Importantly, they also sell the one from the yellow brand that is identical to the cable-based chinese ones in design and construction, and it costs almost $850. That design is what the manufacturer claims is the "original drywall lift", and they still sell it. Same manufacturer as the chain one. Presumably, it's the version the other companies copied. Point is, though, that whatever you say about the Chinese one here, also applies to the Panellift one that costs twice what you paid for the red one.

[@Jrfusion08]

I can almost guarantee you that Panellifts model is not "identical" to the Chinese one, similar but not identical. The Chinese cut corners at every point and have low quality materials whereas American companies have stricter standards that have to be met. However, the Chinese model does the job and is cheaper and for most homeowners that, unfortunately, will always be the determining factor.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Hi Pete, the Panel lift cable lift is a much better quality machine and uses a much thicker gauge airline cable. I am not hating on Amazon, just not impressed that they sell such cheap quality products. They seem to have no standard when it comes to what they sell. They would sell their own mother if it was allowed.

[@SharpestBulbs]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY hey. Just wanted to chime in here. Amazon doesnt actually sell anything other than amazon branded items. The rest of the site is just like Ebay without auctions. Many different sellers including chinese companies. You might know this but from your context, I'm getting the impression that you may not.

[@cliftonshultz2253]

I don't think the reference to Amazon is intentionally negative to the purchase, Amazon is one of the most used delivery suppliers that people refer to.

[@jonblakeman6636]

As I mentioned as well, the American company also sells an imported version of the cable operated lift, as in identical in every way to the cheapest version. Surely they would not sell a dangerous version if they thought it would harm their rep in any way. The test should include both/all versions from the USA company to be fair, not just be an obvious attack on foreign made products.

[@shoey64]

I have used the red lift just the other day. My boss bought it years ago. It seems to be safe we use it all the time. Have fun with the drywall.

[@scottgleason572]

I think your being way too Paranoid about that cable if you realistically look at what that size cable is rated for and also that cable will not have enough energy stored in it to come back and cut your arm off 🤦🏻‍♂️. All our rental places around here that’s all they have is cable ran units. Not as cheaply made as what you have there but same design yes chain driven is much more superior but the cable driven isn’t a “death trap”

[@pierre-marcrioux5015]

Maybe not an arm, but it will snap a finger off. Imagine if it gets to your face... Right into your eye... Rent one, it's just safer and cheaper on your wallet.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

if that lift has a sheet of 5/8 x 12' long 10 feet in the air you are darn right it will cause you some serious damage.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Hi Pete, elevators have breaks and I am pretty sure the cables are a wee bit bigger!

[@jbonegw]

If you think that cable looks unsafe I hope you never work on or near Morgan scaffolding. 🙈😬😂

[@Psychlist1972]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY I watched some videos about elevator hacking, some time ago. They mentioned that there are only a ton of cables in an elevator to give people peace of mind. Most only need one or two of them to lift and lower the elevator because the cables are stronger. It's exceedingly rare for the cables to break in any case. Luckily, they have all sorts of other safety mechanisms like brakes and soft landings and whatnot. But the american-sold cable version is just as vulnerable as the Chinese one. You made a bunch of arguments against the entire idea of cables in that specific use. Now it seems you're, pardon the pun, pulling back on that and saying "well, the US one has a better cable". I haven't seen it made, but I'll hazard to guess that cable isn't made in the US.

[@FreeDumb101]

My uncle bought the one on the right from local hardware store (Menards) for $150 and it worked fine. He put up 30 sheets without a problem. I borrowed it and put up 3 12' sheets and 2 8' sheets without a problem. For the average homeowner or DYI'er, the one on the right works just fine and is worth the $150. It never felt cheap to me and if steel cables can hold up a bridge, I'm pretty sure it can hold drywall. If drywall is all you do then yeah, spending $1000 might be worth it on something a bit more sturdy. And who needs to go 16' high?? Most people aren't going to be building lofts...

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

I get it, however if the good product is available for rent at a reasonable price wouldn't you rather have used it!

[@dagodone8714]

I'm using the same exact one for the past 25 years not a problem not a loose screw bent anything

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

I call BS. Amazon wasn't around that long ago! Cheers!

[@chrissimon8403]

I've had the cheap lift for 12 years and the spring is fine. They are absolutely worth the small price tag!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Good to know. Was it the unit from China sold on Amazon or harbor freight?

[@dlodge4966]

chris simon I bet 12 years ago it was better quality

[@chrissimon8403]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY It was purchased from King Canada.

[@chrissimon8403]

@@dlodge4966 Actually it is the same one.

[@pmdude]

My local rental place rents a cable-pulled lift for $113.00 a week, while I was able to buy a used King for $100 off of kijiji. I have about 20 sheets to put up in my basement that I plan on putting up over the span of three months. (Empty one room at a time, clean, install drywall, mud and tape, paint, replace furniture, move on to next room) The expensive chain-driven one makes sense if you're a pro doing this day out or day in, or if you're ready to do the job in 2-3 days. I live in my fixer-upper, so the King was a better deal. PS. I'm not an idiot, I inspected the cable, I understand how it works, and will replace the cable or scrap the unit if it gets too damaged. P.P.S. You Overpaid! The King and Hausmann can be had in many places for $200 CAD taxes in. (Even Home Hardware has a $259.99 version.)

[@natejm]

PM DIY - I agree that you made the right decision for you circumstance. I do think he oversold this idea you have to rent the expensive one, especially because most of the consensus is that the rental places only rent the cheap ones anyways... One thing you have to take away from this and all of his other videos though, is that they are directed at the common every day DIYers. So maybe some of his safety concerns he talked about will shed some light on some things to look out for. We use cable driven jacks to lift beams into place during major renovations, and it’s just instinct to inspect cables and operations before using these tools, where it might not be for average joe. So hopefully that’s a takeaway from the video. Another thought is that he mentioned it was $400 delivered to his house... if the product is truly that cheap, you’re paying a lot for shipping. I think I kind of lost where I was going with this... but maybe due diligence is just the bottom line. Read the manuals too.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

I totally get it. I am not saying there isn't room for a lift like that. Just saying in most cases it makes sense to rent than buy!

[@o0Avalon0o]

My old boss would always ignore my advice and make me buy cheap tools (like this) for our team to use; after a younger guy got hurt, we started load-testing them before they even left the shop. The boss eventually learned it was cheaper to buy the better tools than buy multiples.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Not to mention the benefit of not having workplace injuries. cheers!

[@Lindenjohnson]

I bought one similar to this at Menards, been using it for 10' 5/8 and it seems to be working well. Definitely going to be paying more attention to that wire though.

[@AJ-ds5gf]

stop making it about america vs china. One product is just over-engineered and the other isn't. One is $1000 and the other is about $200. The inexpensive red one is completely fine for DIY use. No need to exaggerate the dangers.

[@jonblakeman6636]

Exactly this. The USA company also makes the cheaper one and it's their best seller so the US vs China thing just makes it look like that was the sole aim of the video.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

that unit from amazon is dangerous. they just did a recall on it. too many injuries! I am not exaggerating. If you want a better deal then go to harbor freight.

[@newagesecuritysystems1388]

Dram Queen their is not 1000.00 of material and technology the yellow one should cost 300.00 maybe 400.00

[@mikesmith2383]

I’ve used something like the cheaper version there. I think it was from Harbor Freight. Used it finishing a basement. It was a little cumbersome, didn’t seem really unsafe, at the time anyway. Would definitely rather rent the better USA built if it was close to the cost effective option.

[@zahrazahraa4897]

👧👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻🇲🇦

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

IO have been hearing a lot of good things about that harbor freight unit!

[@js9390]

I actually bought the Troy version from Amazon for $120 USD delivered, and so far I have had no issues putting up 5/8 drywall (8 foot sheets) in my 750 sq ft basement I'm finishing. To rent one for a week was going to be $165 from the big box store so this has been a steal. It's obviously not as nice as a commercial unit, but for a one time job it is working well enough for this diyer. I even have a buyer lined up when I'm done for $50, so my total investment will only be $70.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

First off if you rent you only need it for 12 day for an entire basement. That is like 40 bucks. so lets talk apples to apples!

[@js9390]

Home RenoVision DIY my local rental price was $35 a day or $165 a week. But I will say is that the other benefit is that I can do this on my own time ( which helps a ton when I'm working an hour here and there with a 1 year old baby in the house!)

[@js9390]

@Home RenoVision DIY side note, thanks for all the videos! With your help I have been doing everything in my basement finishing project by myself!

[@singlefather01]

I have used it for a few days and I sold it. What can I say? I had to lift perhaps 20x5/8 sheet. It worked fine. Like I said I only needed for a few days. And I don’t intend to do the ceiling ever again.

[@kylezeiger7672]

I bought the same one on amazon for like $175. I did about 25 sheets with it and when the project was done, it was just flat worn out. It seemed to be lopsided, parts were bent, it was just garbage. Probably wiser to buy the higher priced one if you hang drywall

[@nman2563]

It was way cheaper for me to buy the Chinese one for a two week job than rent one. It has really saved my backside and works well. Incidently it shipped from a store in Canada. I can sell it and make most of my money back.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

You might not have bought the same unit. Buyer beware the unit for sale on Amazon is a lower quality unit than a lot of other budget friendly options out there.

[@chodge8366]

bought one from Harbor freight. the cable is a little sketchy but there is a safety mechanism at the rear that locks the shaft as it rises and you must disengage it to lower it,

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

At least there is a safety latch. Cheers!

[@paulchalk2655]

Hi Jeff. I agree with you, the US made lift is the best joice for a contractor/builder, however, having used the other imported one and being a DYIer I would buy the other one. It works and will only break if misused. The other point is a contracted can expense the lift, a home owner can't. Money means much more to a home owner.

[@jboyd85]

As another Jeff from Ottawa working as a contractor, commenting here feels a bit odd, but here I go: I inherited a similarly-made panel lift (Rona's Haussmann brand) from a retired contractor through Kijiji. He didn't even want my money for it. I then built a 1400sqft fire-separated walkout basement apartment with 12' sheets of 5/8ths. Even with 7'8" ceilings the process was terrifying. Now, it did the business and I'm grateful to have had it. That being said, nothing that lifts a 105lb panel overhead should need a pair of vice grips permanently installed over it's pulley to keep the cable from slipping off. What's more, when tension gets high, the wheel tweaks over to the side: you need to bend it back in line to keep the steel cable from fretting on the handle screw at every turn. If ever you need a piece of junk to stand between the other two lifts, let me know. I'll sell it to you for exactly what I paid ;)

[@duncsindevon]

I agree, Jeff great instruction but way too biased against the cheaper version. Had one to plasterboard a 4 bed house with 3 meter ceilings and yes it was a cheaper alternative but with some minor modification and mechanical knowhow it was perfectly adequate for the job. Certainly don't need to go for a Rolls Royce solution unless you are doing this for a living

[@jackgoetz1404]

Bought the ARKSEN brand Chinese one on amazon a few years ago. Have used it quite a bit. Yeah, the cable is a bit sketchy, but it's worked quite well. I try to be careful with it so as not to cause the cable to stick or slip. Definitely worth the 136 bucks I paid for it (currently looks like it's 170 on amazon). Mine was yellow, the current one is red. Only real problem I had was with the initial assembly. Some parts took a bit of persuasion to go together the first time (probably paint overspray).

[@timbro8911]

I have Been using the red one for 12years now almost everyday np.

[@LosmiPZS]

Have you ever had a problem with it? Thinking about buying a cheap onr

[@marec6395]

How do you disassemble this yellow DRYWALL & PANEL HOIST. I cannot locate a video on their site or anywhere else. Please make a video on how “easy” to disassemble to move into another area or something. Please.

[@martylts]

I bought the American version and haven't regretted a second! I've used it for lifting a lot more than just drywall. My brother-in-law who is not a contractor rented one and put up all the full sheets with it. He then did all his cuts/partial sheets without the lift. If memory serves, he only rented the lift for one or Maybe two days. You only need enough screws in a sheet of drywall to hold it in place and then you can come back later and put the rest of the screws

[@carverdahlin2728]

We have an an older American yellow model that's the same brand as your new one. It is a cable system, the same as the red Amazon one, it works great. I think the chain system is nice but I don't like how bulky and heavy it is. I don't like the second wheel either, find it gets in the way.

[@michaelbock8908]

Got one at a box store a few years back. $79.00+ tax. Chinese version. Take your time assembling and it works great. Watch that the cable doesn't bunch up on one side then slip. Will give you a heart attach. Dropping and locking the wheel is a pain. Mine seem to be better than the one shown here. $79 vs $1000.

[@alecbosse6425]

Yeah, I had to learn the hard way to keep an eye on the cable position when winding. The first time it skipped, I just about had a heart attack. 😳 But once you are aware, the cable-driven one works pretty well.

[@bradmaas6875]

I bought one from harbor freight. Did my 1800sf house, no problems, no issues. Worked fine and easy to carry up and down stairs. If I were doing it as a professional I might spend the money on the heavy duty one..

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers, the harbor freight one seems to get a lot of respect, curious about the amazon experience. since it is a different model.

[@bradmaas6875]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY HF lift looks a lot like the Amazon version. lifts 150lbs to 11'5". Getting ready to do my garage with 10' ceilings next. Not sure who might climb on it though.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers Brad, turns out the HF unit has a safety catch on it. A much safer unit for sure. Cheers!

[@bhnn7991]

Just a note on the PanelLift lifts. I have a very similar PanelLift Model 138-2. It is cable driven however designed such that if the cable should break (which with the design of my unit is highly unlikely). Just like the PanelLift model in this video, the load will not drop. My PanelLift Model 138-2 cost around $700 so is a little more reasonable for a homeowner like me that wants Made in the USA quality and doesn't mind paying for it. Thus far it has been a great unit and is very stable and well built.

[@maxrybold1531]

The red lift works perfectly fine, for DIY projects and the yellow one is over kill for such projects. Also I used 5/8" 4 x 12 with the red left and it worked fine. The contact of metal on metal is alarming but then again its good to know/see that the wires are twisted... Also yes the cable could snap but one could say that the chain could derail and _____________.

[@audisoundproductions]

He’s is totally right, I’m a drywall installer and I did use the red one few times, very poor quality, mine broke quickly, the cable got tangled and stuck, i had to buy the good one (yellow) to after 2-3 jobs, dont waste your money

[@pierredussf]

I just purchased the Troy BH1 for $200 from eBay fora home DIY job. I RTFMd. Limit is 150lbs and max sheet size is 4x8. I immediately made several modifications. A simple bolt, washers and nut hold the leg spring lock in place; there's no play. I may remove it and replace it with a through bolt; tighter. I braced to other two legs with angle iron; there is no wobble. I clamped the shaft to the base with a couple of hose clamps; no wobble. I checked the cable feed for rough edges; they are smooth. I check all cables and clamps routinely for wear; no breaks. I checked the brakes but also made chocks to lock the wheels in place; no slips. I put warning straps on all projections; no pokes in the eye. I wear a helmet; no bumps. I work with a partner; no hernias and no tip overs. You can work smart and safe or you can work stupid. I'm fine with it.

[@Brackett08]

I used one that was almost identical to the Amazon one - but was from a local hardware store. Finished the basement with it without it breaking. Big issue is that while you are lowering it, if your hand slips off the wheel and the break is not engaged it goes into free spin. 1 minor hand injury from the handle on the wheel spinning too rapidly.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

you got lucky!

[@jonblakeman6636]

I got one very similar to the cheap one but only $120 (big box store). I'd never seen a panel lift before and had absolutely no issues putting it together (after perusing the manual) or using it many many times without a single issue over the last year. I usually like your vids but this one seems to have an agenda. Obviously the cheap one won't be as nice to use nor as longlasting I shouldn't think... but I wouldn't expect a Geo Metro to drive the same as a Rolls Royce (I've never actually driven a Geo Metro). But they'll both get you down the road.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

A;ll I am saying is, the danger involved is not worth the risk. I am usually a safety second guy bit this thing scares the hell out of me!

[@willschultz5452]

I have driven a Geo metro, only a 3 cylinder, not a bad car and very economical but pretty slow going uphill with the AC on LOL!!😂😂😂😂

[@jonblakeman6636]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY But there is very little to no risk if used properly with some common sense.

[@JMaulding87]

You guys are lucky to have options! My local rental place charges $70/day (additional $20 for insurance if it breaks while you have it) to rent the cheap version in this video! I rented it once, and it got the job done though.

[@jonk899]

I bought a red version (King Canada, under $200 all in, watch for sales) lift five years ago. Used it for at least 20 different ceilings and I am totally confident using it. It follows me to each house I renovate. I have saved thousands in rental and transportation costs. Spend your money on a nice vacation rather than worrying about expensive tools. It is a pain to store, but it is a good unit to have to lend to buddies, trading/lending tools beats renting. The cable will break after 2500 lbs. Not an issue.

[@joemodley7934]

I bought one use for $100 and have used it to hang sheetrock in three houses... it has been great, no failures or accidents so far

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Hi Joe, do you do this for a living?

[@joemodley7934]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY I work as a carpenter for a contractor and flip houses and remodel my own rentals in my off time. I actually retired a little over a year ago, but had too much time on my hands so i gutted 3 of my rentals and rebuilt them, then decided to go back to work.

[@underscr0e]

I have a cheap wire one….have a 12’ piece of drywall sitting on it right now waiting for some materials to continue. It’s been working fine so far, I am not a professional but it does the job just fine….u r right…the wire sketches me out but it works.

[@aviwequmba3700]

Sir I really wanna know the mass or weight of this sheet lifter in terms of shipping please can you help me about it.

[@remnl]

For my home rebuild the chinese version works perfect so then its worth it. I can imagen if you use it as a business and you need to transport it all the time and use it heavy-duty I can imagen you go for the more expensive one.. All depends on the budget and application

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

I would still rather rent a good one for a few days than buy a piece of junk. Cheers!

[@davidgoodman582]

I've used the Red one for years with no issues. If I was a sheet rocker who did it everyday I'd say Yes, buy the best. But for 20 sheets a year or less, I am very happy with the red one. It does have a secondary safety! If the cable breaks, 2 pins snap in to prevent it from falling. I have never felt at risk using the Red lift. I'm primarily a carpenter but I do it all. I took your advice on sound proofing a room for a commercial client and it worked great!

[@bridgetsmith847]

Congratulations Jeff, you’ve joined Winnie the Pooh on the prestigious list of Banned Names on the Chinese Internet!!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

That is fine with me!

[@bridgetsmith847]

Home RenoVision DIY it should be! China number wan!!!

[@MakeWithMike]

Mine was 150 delivered 11ft have a test video i just posted as my last one as if this vid,good demonstration and compassion of comparison! 👍 👌 🆒️ 👍 Only using for one job

[@TalonGaming_YT]

I bought the Metal Tech model from Princess Auto for $330 or so. They also have a cheaper model. In any case, the construction seems much better, although it still does use a cable driven system.

[@andrewcarr2431]

I rented one today for $30 for the weekend....did 6 ceilings with it, doing walls tomorrow....$30 is a heck of a lot cheaper than hiring 2 strong guys to lift drywall. Plus I can work at my own pace....I'm with you Jeff, that chinese knock offs in this case are not worth the free shipping you get from them

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

#notalone LOL, Cheers Andrew. I felt like I was talking common sense here but some guys need to put their safety at risk to save a few bucks. I think Rental is the way to go

[@MrLookingtolearn]

I used one today all day 12 ft no problems. In my opinion, I find it's usually operator error is the issue you look like you need to be trained a little bit you're likely to hurt yourself just screwing around.. I picked one up at Princess Auto last year for $130... no issues yet

[@dulow]

EVERYTHING SHOULD BE MADE AS SIMPLE AS POSSIBLE, NOT SIMPLER” - ALBERT EINSTEIN

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

I don't listen to advice form foilks who died before the technology age. Cheers!

[@deanwilliams8857]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY That's a good point!

[@takahm6368]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY so ture

[@anthonysilva5015]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY I think you missed his point... The Chinese one is made simpler; reasoning is that it works but it isn't very well thought out... The meaning of the quote is to make it as simple as you can and it still be a good (whatever you made). If you make it simpler you end up with something that pseudo works but isn't that great. MikeTrack is defending your choice of which is the better.

[@MrRondonmon]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY No, that was good advice from an intelligent man. Einstein used sarcasm to make the point. In other words you could say the same think about a multi million dollar Jet, make it as simple as possible "not simpler" [THAN POSSIBLE], to be safe. If one has to spend 200 million to make it safe, spend 200 million, not 170 million {simpler}. I wouldn't use it either unless it was an emergency, I would rather grab a couple friends.

[@donacianoalonzo1578]

have had the red one for 6 yrs now and have lifted many sheets of drywall and plywood also.. still have all my fingers and arms , never had any issues with it... i guess it just depends on how much money you want to spend.. when it comes down to it they both do the same thing .. you are basically paying 900.00 more for a bicycle chain...

[@mrj-charles6383]

I bought a cheap one also. Got off eBay for $109 USD shipped to the house. Like you the cable made a bit nervous but I think it will be fine. I put plywood down on the floor so I have a smooth surface to roll on.

[@punjabik]

I worked with the china one. Major problem is break inside drum. You didn't show that, but on my china model the brake is only flat rope on screw. This rope broke and everything went down.

[@markie871]

I know this isnt relevant to this video but, is it ok to epoxy my floor and then fram and anchor over it? Our basment is all open unstarted. We wanted to have epoxy flooring to help with sealing and then looks cool as well. Is it ok to ram set the bottom plate to the concrete floor through the epoxy or should i frame first then epoxy around walls?

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

adding the epoxy will not harm anything. Cheers!

[@markie871]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY so epoxy the whole thing and then framing iver top of epoxy should be fine?

[@vernonjustus8529]

actually bought the one from harbor freight. used it once and had no problems. have plans to use on 1-2 more rooms and then our ceilings are done. paid under 200 and will put it on facebook or craigslist and take what i can. certainly not for professional use but would do it again if i only had a few times i needed it. rental of the one you recommend is 4080 per day here in okc. home depot has it for 750 to buy

[@seanh767]

Didn't you already have a video showing how to use a cable driven drywall lift in your everything about drywall series? I just tried but couldn't find it.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Hi Sean, yes I did. That video is still there. the unit is still a very high quality unit. I am not dissing all cable driven units just a poorly made design that is being sold on amazon that folks think will perform well based on the picture. Beware of a good deal!

[@seanh767]

Thanks for the clarification I just found the video and even the cable one in that video looks significantly better than the amazon one you reviewed. I really like the majority of your videos. I think this is one of the best all around diy channels to watch and not just in KZbin. Keep up the good work.

[@m252m]

I bought the Chinese one from Amazon. Quality is so-so but more than sufficient for DIY. In the UK it is only £115. It is definitely safe to use but you should not have more than one full board on at a time. You can rent the cheap one for a weekend for around £90. Update Jewsons do have a solid looking lift for £60 per weekend.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Why are you lying about the rental rate. I mean lets have a real conversation here!

[@m252m]

It might just be the places I looked but the big tool rental places do charge around £90 to rent the cheap Chinese one for the weekend. It is painted yellow but it isn't the high quality one. You could probably get a lot better price from a local hire shop.

[@m252m]

I would add that if anyone buys one to please check it first. As is pointed out in the video if that cable snaps it will do some damage. Check for fraying of the cable, if there is any dump it.

[@markmckinley5989]

I paid $126 delivered for similar. Cable does not rub if wheel extended to proper location. Yes a heavy duty tool is better but how many folks go much higher than 10 ft? Heck of a lot safer and easier than 2x4 tees in my opinion. And when my project done I can sell for very close if not more than I have in it. I get that you have to promote in return for free tool but the scare tactics unwarranted.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Hi Mark, There was no deal to promote this tool in that way. I decided to buy the amazon tool and do this comparison since i was hearing from the community that they were buying it instead of renting.

[@sheilam4964]

I like comparisons like this. It's not something everyone can do for themselves. It's nice that you can to this comparison for us. Thanks.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers Sheila, just trying to give some perspective on things. Amazon has no quality control on the products they list!

[@thewayidoit8895]

Love ya Jeff. In 2022 now I bought a lift for $200(USD) It's mine, I don't get billed if I don't return it Yada Yada Yada. It lifts drywall. Worth every penny even if I send it for scrap at the end.

[@2bikemikesguitartopics145]

I've used 2 different versions of the red type. 1 was red from Harbor freight and 2nd grey from rona. Both worked great. Not as much drama as you showed there. Rental for a couple of weeks was more than buying the yellow one. For a home project that's a once use, the cable unit is fine. We did lift many 4x12 sheets as well as 4x8s. I ended up buying the grey unit for $100 on Kijiji from a guy built a large shop with 12ft ceilings. I'm about to use it again on a reno at a friend's house. Easypeesy. The general diyers don't generate income from using and buying or renting tools. What is it and why is there black stuff on the wall?

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

for the average homeowner 1 day rental puts up the whole ceiling and is safe for use!

[@2bikemikesguitartopics145]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY One day is usually not enough time for home diy. Weekends are short for working folks. Even a 1200sqft basement can't be done in one weekend by most busy family folks. I see your preference, it's obviously more robust in structure and cost. What do ya do with that one after basement is done? Who is going to pay you a good second hand price for it? I've seen that red type at rental shops and it was even cheaper to pay the $250 for it new over $50+ taxes for a weeks worth.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

LOL, The black stuff is mass loaded vinyl. I am soundproofing for a metal roof and a theater room. Cheers! video coming soon!

[@vhehn]

i have done multiple complete 200 sheet houses with the harbor freight one. it works just fine and i use 12 ft sheets. it has multiple safety functions.

[@harmdewmartin2125]

I have the cheap one it is brilliant it cost me £120 the professional one is £1395. As a builder I use it 2 maybe 3 times a year on projects. Yes it’s not as safe but if the cable goes bad replace it just normal maintenance in my vieuw.

[@WesCameron-lx9xh]

I bought a similar red lifrer at adss building supplies. Worked for 2 years with it as an installer before 1 of the wheels broke

[@MrMurph111]

I bought a used Panel Lift brand cable style one for $200 that was beat up for years, best investment if your a DIYer and taking your time finishing your project. Renting this tool weekly is out of the question if it takes you months to install drywall at your own pace. Plus I can always sell it later for pretty much what I bought it for.

[@maximeturgeon]

I ve bought a cheap one for 130$ CAN at local store. I had a 900 sq2 ceiling to do with type X sheetrock. It worked fine. Know that I see the difference though, I'm inclined in selling it and renting the good one for future projects or at least, I'll be cautious when using it again

[@patrickqueenan4669]

I bought the cheap one. Use it once a month. Works fine. The other one is to heavy to move from job to job.

[@beautifulbeautiful5804]

We have the red one been doing a lot of jobs with it but then to bring it back down or up it gets stuck I'm always having trouble with it

[@ronaldwoofer5024]

The chinesium model is down to $300 at homecheapo, 90 day return policy, and looks like they fixed the cable rubbing issue... still nowhere near compared the highend model, but much better 5 years later

[@roypeters1545]

Harber freight sales them for $200 work fine but 4x8 sheetrock was as big as I used on it

[@technosaurus3805]

I just use 2 furring strips with long skinny nails/screws down the center. Put one furring strip in place with just enough space to slide the drywall in (use a scrap piece to gauge it). Use the 2nd furring strip to lift and screw it in place. Remove the 1st and repeat. It's easier if you're tall but normal height ceilings can be done this way with a small step ladder (I may or may not have used an upside down bucket once or twice) or a full size step ladder on taller ceilings if you are really athletic or have a helper. I have access to a lift, but this way seems to go much faster, so I never use it. I'm sure a lift is safer, easier on your back and probably required by OSHA, but quick and dirty gets the job done.

[@iamamish]

IMO it's not really an American-made vs. China-made, it's a simple difference in cost & material quality. Where the product is made is a bit of a red herring. Appreciate the thoughtful reviews though - made me realize that I'll probably just rent one for my next project. I made the mistake of doing my kitchen ceiling with my uncle just holding the drywall in place. My arms ached for days afterward.

[@paulstone7655]

The latch at the top (which stops the lift going up) is there for during transportation.

[@abadgerardo]

Thank you for the Safety warning. You are correct , checking on Safety is priority # 1 before using any equipment.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers, taking some heat on this video. Not sure why folks think I am getting paid to have an opinion.

[@deftdawg]

How many screws to hold up a sheet of drywall? Bought the red one off Kijiji for ~$100, I knew it wasn't a pro quality tool when I got it, but to rent the pro tool I'd have to get all my drywalling done in a single day. Which isn't a possibility. I have no concerns about it's safety and would happily buy it again used, especially given the that this is 10 times safer than 2 people trying to hang drywall manually.

[@reagannelson5264]

I just used the cheap one to put all the drywall up in my new shop and it performed well. It was the only type my local rental company carried. Even Home Depot rents a cable style lift. Your review seemed very biased. It is like comparing renting a Cadillac to buying a Chevy Malibu, both get you where you want to go, but the Malibu will do it for many years. I agree that if you are a professional, you should invest the extra money in the better equipment, but your channel is targeted toward the DIY bunch.

[@jag376]

I wish I could attach a picture to show you the j jury I sustained a week ago to the top of my head. While the hoist was fully extended it came crashing down and I sustained a 6 inch deep cut. Thanks for the heads up Jeff. It came one week too late. Lol.

[@samisami-vd2qr]

how do I get a training course in plumbing?Is there any institute or training center gives a training in short time?

[@zhichen2463]

Both functionally similar, but the yellow one seems operating smoother. I cannot comment on its safety because I have not use either. But the narrative was biased from the beginning.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

I am not a journalist. One look at that thing and you would have a biased opinion as well.

[@ae1ae2]

My sense was that the review was *informed* based on experience using the products before the camera was rolling. Yeah, there's *always* some bias, though we don't know which direction that bias goes simply from the final review. Maybe Jeff was really excited about the lower priced one (biased in favor of it), but then was deeply disappointed in the quality after he became experienced in using the product.

[@landdon24]

I guarantee you that most of the rental places have the cheaper one. So, rent the cheaper one, or buy the nice one, or buy the cheaper one. For me, I'm not going to hang drywall more than twice in my entire life. I buy the cheap one.

[@ericwhite265]

Drywall is one of those jobs that if it's more than a couple sheets it's probably cheaper to just hire someone to do it. They'll knock it out in a fraction of the time and it'll look 100x better. It probably won't cost much extra either. I've heard from a few different people in different areas of the US that the cost installed was within anywhere from 5%-15% of what they would have spent on materials alone.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

I call BS. There is no way you can hire help to install for less than the cost of renting a lift. You are not giving enough credit to the homeowners skill set here.

[@taichi7254]

@@ericwhite265 typical install in Philadelphia region is ~ $8 - $15 sqft.

[@billyroque7857]

Will be doing a job soon that will require ceiling installation only. Thought about buying a similar Chineseuem found in OfferUp for $100. After seeing this video, I'm heading over to home depot to pay the $156 to rent the American made. It's quite a few sheets that we have to hang so it's not worth the hassle and possible lift failure just to save $56 on a rental. Plus I don't have room to store the lift once I'm done with job. Thanks for your video.

[@bennewfield3038]

I think if I had to choose I would just use the 2x4 trick for a bedroom or kitchen ceiling something small. Now if I was doing multiple ceiling's then I might rent a drywall lift. But I wont waste four hundred dollars on useless equipment. Or equipment that I may not use often or again. Thats four hundred that could go towards more important purchases in a reno.

[@brokassqcislander]

Have used many, the American made version I used was best, it was cable driven and went up 11… the cheaper ones have smaller plastic wheels and thin metal, the extension arms will bend over 1-2 moderate sized jobs, it will lift a 16ft sheet of 1/2” but a 12’ sheet of 5/8” fireguard will scare you with amount of tension on system… generally leads to bending both the extension arms and the main spool. The 16’ lift version you show here is a beefed up model. Most have an 11 and 16 option which is just a longer cable and another lift telescope… if you are just doing one job for yourself w 1/2” board maybe the snackmaster version is ok😅 but if you buy quality tools that last, spend a bit more and look for the traits I explained and you will have it for years… my 2 cents. Thanks for the review… these lifts are very good, worth every penny if you buy a nice one… one person can pick up a 16’ in the center and load it onto the stirrups, and board a ceiling by yourself, they can also be used to board the upper walls, and last sheet goes in down low and lifted tight w yer foot lift… that’s how the pros do it…

[@sc0368]

Panel Lift also makes cable lift systems(yellow) it's the same quality but without the chain 🔗....it could be ordered with extensions that could reach 20' made in USA stickers.

[@DoneRightReviews]

I love your channel, but the LOCATION of manufacture does NOT define the quality of anything.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

In this case it does. The American Company that designed it years ago has always been building a quality unit in America. This knock off was designed to look the same in a picture and is pure junk. If you want a lower cost option then but the harbor freight unit. it seems to get good reviews from our viewers. cheers!

[@longwildernesswalks]

Well, it does. There's a reason why 'Made in China' resonates in the back of your mind as 'pure crap'. It's because they take American (and the rest of the world too) designs and 1/4 ass re-engineer things to the bare minimum. That's how China is as a society too. Just enough, is enough. No more beyond the absolute bare minimum.

[@rfabian48]

Jeff what do you think of the Products at Harbor Frieght

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

I have no personal experience with them. Something I plan on changing. However the community seems to think they are good and definitely outperform the cheap amazon tool i bought. Cheers!

[@deftdawg]

My guess is he'll find them similar to Princess Auto

[@mistakes4all]

Bought one of those cheaper ones and got it just the other day. Assembled without a problem. Plan on using it over the next couple weeks to get some drywall up and sell it off for half price. Cost me $150 total. Less than a rental by far.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

And yet if it was only about the money then in your case I get it. I don't feel the same about selling it to someone else. I just don't think it is safe enough last without causing injuries.

[@junioradult6219]

Weeks? It shouldn't take that long even a thousand sheets

[@brianpite0893]

For the home owner doing a normal ceiling, I would just use a couple 2x4 T bars . With help. Come to think of it there's a way to it alone too.