Hi-Lift® Jacks vs. hydraulic jacks
There is a lot of misleading information out there, so here are the facts.
Hi-Lift® Jacks are multipurpose recovery tools designed to do more than just lift. Their value is in their ability to lift, winch, spread, hoist, clamp, etc. – at prices that range from $110 – $160. No other jack on the market can do everything a Hi-Lift® can do. No other jack on the market gives you the same dependable versatility at a reasonable price.
As with any tool, it’s important to educate yourself on safe use procedures and operating instructions before using any jack, because they ALL (even hydraulic jacks) are inherently dangerous if not operated correctly.
Comparing Hi-Lift® Jacks and hydraulic jacks
Uses/Abilities
All Hi-Lift® Jacks can be used to lift, winch, pull, clamp, hoist, spread, etc. while hydraulic jacks can be used to lift only.
✅ ADVANTAGE: HI-LIFT® JACK
| Uses/Abilities | Hi-Lift® Jacks | hydraulic jacks |
|---|---|---|
| Lifting | Yes | Yes |
| Winching | Yes | No |
| Pulling | Yes | No |
| Clamping | Yes | No |
| Spreading | Yes | No |
Specifications/Capacities
✅ ADVANTAGE: HI-LIFT® JACK
| 48″ Hi-Lift® | 60″ Hi-Lift® | hydraulic jacks | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | $100-$150 | $115-$160 | $800 |
| Min. Lift Height | 4.5″ (114 mm) | 4.5″ (114 mm) | 6.3″ (160mm) |
| Max. Lift Height | 38.63″ (981 mm) | 49.75” (1,263.7 mm) | 48.4” (1,230 mm) |
| Travel | 34.13” (866.9 mm) | 45.25” (1,149.4 mm) | 21.65” (550 mm)* |
| Lifting Range | 4.5” – 38.63” (114 mm – 981 mm) | 4.5” – 49.75” (114 mm – 1,263.7 mm) | 6.3” – 48.4” (160 mm – 1,230 mm) |
| Max. Capacity | 4,660 lbs. (2,113 kg) | 4,660 lbs. (2,113 kg)** | 4,409 lbs. (2,000 kg) |
| Lift Per Handle Stroke | 0.984” (25 mm) | 0.984” (25 mm) | 0.512” (13 mm) |
Storage Options
✅ ADVANTAGE: HI-LIFT® JACK
- 48” Hi-Lift® Jack models have a stored height of 48” (1,219.2 mm). 60” Hi-Lift® Jack models have a stored height of 60” (1,524 mm). Hi-Lift® Jacks also come in smaller sizes (36”/914.4 mm and 42”/1,066.8 mm). Hi-Lift® Jacks can be stored both inside and outside of a vehicle, with many different mounting options available from Hi-Lift® and other aftermarket manufacturers.
- Hydraulic trail jacks have a stored height of 35” (890 mm), and can only be stored inside of the vehicle.
The Hi-Lift® Jack is one tool to carry that has as many uses in the field as your imagination can come up with. It’s a “peace of mind” tool with value far beyond its cost. Don’t buy something that claims to be better but has far less to offer. Trust the Hi-Lift® brand – affordable, reliable, multipurpose.
✅ Winner: Hi-Lift® Jack
No other jack on the market can do everything a Hi-Lift® Jack can do. No other jack on the market gives you the same dependable versatility at a reasonable price.