Top 15 Best Step Ladders On The Market 2024
A ladder is an indispensable tool in the family. You may not use it regularly but you should keep it handy in case you need such as changing the light bulb, painting the room, cleaning the fan, hanging decorations, trimming trees…The list will go on and on.
A good and suitable ladder becomes a great help for family members to be able to participate in house cleaning activities.
The ladder needs to be strong, durable and has some specific features that suit your needs.
Different Types Of Ladders
Have you ever wondered how many ladder types there are? And what best step ladders look like? Let’s sort out and study more each type before going into detail!
Step Ladders
This is the type of ladder you often come across. Step ladder is a ladder that you can stand on without having to lean on a wall.
Platform Ladders
It is similar to a step ladder but has a wide, flat step at the top to stand comfortably. Often used in situations where you want to work with both hands and still keep yourself safe.
Step Stools
Step stool usually has a few steps. It is not as tall as other ladders. So you use it indoors as a stepping stone to reach for some jars on the kitchen or closet shelves.
Extension Ladders
The ladder has two parts: a fixed part and a part that can be raised to climb higher places. Using this ladder is sometimes a bit dangerous so only professionals should buy it.
Folding Ladders
You can fold the ladder after use to store. By this way it will save a lot of space.
Telescoping Ladders
As the name suggests, this type of ladder operates like a telescoping. You can easily make it extend and collapse to the size you want. It’s become more and more popular today because of its flexibility and portability.
Multi-Purpose Ladders
With this ladder, it has a variety of functions and can cover almost all the features of the above ladders.
Fiberglass Ladder Vs. Aluminum Ladder
Material is the first thing to consider when buying best step ladders. There are two popular types of step ladder on the market today: aluminum ladder and fiberglass ladder.
Each type of material has different strengths and weaknesses. Depending on your preferences, you can choose one that’s right for you.
Fiberglass Ladders
Fiberglass ladder have many remarkable advantages worth mentioning.
Firstly they are resistant to electricity. If you often work with household appliances such as changing bulbs, wiring electrical appliances, then choosing a fiberglass ladder is indispensable because it ensures maximum safety.
Secondly, fiberglass ladders are more heat resistant and often last longer under the influence of weather than aluminum ladder.
Last but not least, fiberglass ladders have better bearing capacity than aluminum. They won’t get bent easily through time.
Aluminum Ladders
Aluminum ladders are usually lightweight and convenient for carrying around. You can find them at more affordable price than fiberglass ladders.
Moreover, aluminum ladders easily become weaker under the heat.
All in all, fiberglass ladders seem to be more durable and stable than aluminum. If price is not your concern, you could buy a fiberglass ladder. If you prefer portable one, an aluminum ladder will be your best choice.
Which Are The Best Step Ladders To Buy?
In this list, I highlight some best step ladders and their particular characteristics. Let’s go through these products before deciding.
- Best Overall – Little Giant 22-Foot Velocity Multi-Use Ladder
“The top choice for all-in-one ladder; It will always be by your side in every DIY projects around your house.” - Best for Painting – Louisville Ladder FS1508 Fiberglass Ladder
“Sturdy and well-built, easy to open/set/close, reach the highest points in the ceiling with no difficulty.” - Best for Budget – Rubbermaid RM-3W Folding 3-Step Stepladder
“Safe, comfortable and easy to maneuver stepstool ever.” - Best for Portable Purpose – Ohuhu EN131 Telescopic Extension Ladder
“…saves a lof of space when not in use, and it is very easy to transport from place to place around the house.” - Best for Indoor Use – LivingSURE Folding 4-Step Safety Ladder
“Extra wide steps, anti-slip treads, padded handrail and sturdy steel frame – all you need to do house cleaning yourself.” - Best for Storage – Core Studio SL3HLight Slimline 3 Step Ladder
“It’s sleek and strong. You can easily fold and tuck it away behind the fridge and wall or slide under the bed.” - Best Lightweight Step Ladder – Cosco Three Step 5′ Lite Solutions Folding Step Ladder
“Extremely light ladder and super easy to move around.” - Best for Outdoor Activities – Little Giant 10410BA Safety Step Four Step Ladder
“Perfect for getting in and out of my 5 ft off the ground trailer for loading goods everyday.” - Best for Cutting Hedges – Werner FTP6206 Ladder
“A must have ladder for gardeners.” - Best for Getting on Roof – Werner D1116-2 Extension-Ladder
“Great ladder for the price; quality built for a light-weight and easy to handle.” - Best for Stairs – Little Giant Adjustable Step Ladder
“Extends to a great height and a nice platform to make you feel safe.”
Step Ladder Comparison Chart 2023
Before going into the reviews of all best step ladder products I have selected for this article, it’s important to notice the difference between them.
Top 15 Best Step Ladder Reviews in 2023
It’s time to look closely at key features of best step ladders.
Here are the pros, cons, and my personal experience with each product. Make sure to read before buying any ladder.
1. Little Giant 22-Foot Velocity Multi-Use Ladder
(Best Overall)
If you are looking for a ladder that can transform into many different types to use for different purposes around your home, Little Giant 22-Foot Velocity Multi-Use Ladder will be your best option.
It is designed surprisingly smart, flexible with multiple heights and extremely compact. This ladder is made 20% lightweight compared to other ladders at the same kind. And it could carry up to 300 pounds, so feel free to bring all your necessary tools and hardware with you.
It can be folded into five different configurations including A-frame ladder, staircase ladder, 90-degree ladder, extension ladder and scaffolding ladder. Rock locks make it easier and quicker for you to adjust the ladder.
What’s more, tip and glide are ready in case you want to move it around your place.
Key Features:
- Dual-pin hinge
- Easy-to-use Rock Locks™
- Aerospace-grade aluminum
- Wide-flared legs
Pros
- Multiple position options
- Ladder for two people at the same time
- Easy to set up
- Stability and durability
Cons
- A little bit heavy
Product Specification:
| Item Weight | 39.5 pounds |
| Dimension | 8 x 27 x 67 inches |
| Brand | Little Giant Ladder System |
| Size | 22 Feet with Wheels |
| Ideal for | Home use, hedge cutting |
2. Louisville Ladder FS1508 Fiberglass Ladder
(Best for Painting)
This orange ladder is made of non-conductive fiberglass. It’s strongly built and sturdy with weight capacity of 300 pounds.
It is designed with many exclusive features to help customers receive the maximum benefits when buying and using the product.
Firstly, the ladder is equipped with effective anti-slip feet, which also help to absorb the total impact on the ladder when in use.
Secondly, molded top is available for tools so that you can carry essential hardware and handheld machines for your repairing works.
Thirdly, SHOX system and spreader braces are useful when it comes to protecting the ladder from damage and increase its durability and stability.
Key Features:
- Spreader braces
- Exclusive SHOX system
- Exclusive raptor boot
- Exclusive ‘Raptor Top’ system includes a magnet tray, hardware tray, curved front, drill and tool slots, paint bucket holder, and pipe or 2×4 holder
Pros
- Elegant design and nice color
- Easy to carry around
- Anti-electric shock
Cons
- Not be able to change into different configurations
- Ask for product information and make sure the product you receive from vendors is brand new
Product Specification:
| Item Weight | 26 pounds |
| Dimension | 6.8 x 26.2 x 98 inches |
| Brand | Louisville Ladder |
| Size | 8 feet |
| Ideal for | Home use and heavy-duty jobs |
3. Rubbermaid RM-3W Folding 3-Step Stepladder
(Best for Budget)
You have some spare time and want to make over your home, starting with some simple decoration. The thing is that you haven’t done this kind of job before so you need a not-too high, friendly and safe ladder. Rubbermaid is the most suitable step stool option for you.
Modern design with large steps to create a sense of security for the user. It can be easily folded for storage.
This ladder features non-slip rubber feet and handgrip for your safety. When it comes to stability, it has a locking mechanism to keep the step firmly balance.
Key Features:
- Large steps design for comfortable use
- Traction-molded steps for maximum safety
- Locking mechanism for stability
Pros
- Durable steel frame
- Foldable for storage
- Elegant design and color
- Multiple-use home projects
- User-friendly
- Handle is high enough to help you keep balance when standing on it
Cons
- The latch could become loosen
- Not for heavy-duty use
Product Specification:
| Item Weight | 14 pounds |
| Dimension | 2.4 x 17.8 x 48.4 inches |
| Brand | Rubbermaid |
| Style | 3-step stool step |
| Ideal for | Home use like reaching items in the kitchen, bathroom, office, or garage |
4. Ohuhu EN131 Telescopic Extension Ladder
(Best for Portable Use)
Ohuhu EN131 Telescopic can be extended to a maximum length of 12.5 feet which is enough for you to reach the height of the ceiling. And it also can be shortened to a minimum length of 2.9 feet which is ideal for storage.
If your home doesn’t have a separate storage space or you want to keep everything to be as tidy as possible, this ladder is for you.
It’s designed for easy operating with functional and convenient buttons. You can open and close the ladder many times and carry it around when working.
Rest assured because the ladder will not collapse so fast; instead it will retracting slowly and nicely without harming your fingers.
Key Features:
- One Button Retraction for the whole ladder
- Red Buckle Button for retracting one upper step
- Portable grip handle
- Non-slip end cap
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry around
- Durable aluminum
- Well-made frame construction
- Safe and easy extension and retraction
- Carrying strap for compact storage
Cons
- Not safe when standing on smooth floor because the bottom feet are made of plastic
Product Specification:
| Item Weight | 25.4 pounds |
| Dimension | 36.3 x 20.4 x 4.3 inches |
| Brand | Ohuhu |
| Size | 12.5 Feet |
| Ideal for | Painting the walls, changing the light bulbs, cleaning the windows, and everything in between. |
5. LivingSURE Folding 4-Step Safety Ladder
(Best for Indoor Use)
This ladder comes with larger steps for extra safety. Each step measures 10 ¼” long x 15” wide which can cover heel-to-toe surface support. Anti-slip treaded steps make sure you stand firmly and securely.
You can climb without worry about missing a step and still focus on what you are doing.
Strong handrails provide more security for user when going up and down, especially when staying at the top of the ladder.
You can easily clean the window, reach for a high cabinet or hang some decorations at home by yourself.
Key Features:
- Elegant and smart design
- Durable and sturdy steel frame
- Large and anti-slip treaded steps for comfortable and safe standing
- Padded side handrails
Pros
- Foldable
- Easy to store
- Allow you to work with both hands
- Non-marring feet for protecting the floor
Cons
- Assembly Required
Product Specification:
| Item Weight | 27.6 pounds |
| Dimension | 32 x 21 x 66 inches |
| Brand | LivingSURE |
| Type | Four-Tier |
| Ideal for | Housecleaning, decorating or accessing high cabinets and shelves |
6. Core Studio SL3HLight Slimline 3 Step Ladder
(Best for Storage)
An ultra-thin, sophisticated design ladder that you can tuck behind a washing machine or a closet when you finish using it. It’s made of aerospace anodized aluminum which is durable and sturdy.
One thing people love most about it is that it’s extremely lightweight. You can carry it around your home with ease. It makes cleaning house more enjoyable.
The ladder is designed with a top handle which is intentionally fixed for more security.
Moreover, the rubber bottom feet are anti-slip.
Key Features:
- Aerospace anodized aluminum frame
- Fixed handle for more stability when climbing up
- Wide steps for firm standing
Pros
- Lightweight, slim and has minimalist design
- Easy to storage
- Easy to move around
- Multifunctional
Cons
- Check the screw if they are tightly positioned before use
Product Specification:
| Item Weight | 10 pounds |
| Dimension | 43.9 x 67.3 x 122.9 inches |
| Brand | Core Studio |
| Size | 3 Tread |
| Ideal for | Home use |
7. Cosco Three Step 5′ Lite Solutions Folding Step Ladder
(Best Lightweight Step Ladder)
The ladder features the extra wide top step for firm standing. It’s designed to be lightweight yet still strong with aircraft grade aluminum frames. Non-marring feet make it hard to slip and do no harm to the floor.
With maximum height of 5 feet, it can still support you with a lot of housework.
If you prefer safety and easy to use feature over height, this ladder might meet your needs perfectly. Using this ladder is very easy. Although it’s lightweight (actually you only need one hand to carry), it’s still well-balanced when climbing.
The top tray of the ladder can be used to hold your necessary tools.
Key Features:
- Aircraft-grade aluminum frames
- Extra large platform top step
- Non-marring feet
- Tray for tools
Pros
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Easy to use
- Easy to carry around
Cons
- Not high enough for some work
Product Specification:
| Item Weight | 7.48 pounds |
| Dimension | 32.4 x 20.1 x 51 inches |
| Brand | Cosco |
| Style | 3 Step ladder |
| Ideal for | Home use |
8. Delxo Folding 4 Step Ladder
The good news is that this step ladder comes fully assembled. You no longer have to struggle with the manual book to get it ready.
The construction of the ladder is strong and stable which allows you to feel safe and comfortable when doing your job. With the maximum weight capacity of 330 pounds, it can handle heavy-duty jobs.
Comfortable and large steps make it easier for you to work in a long period of time without pain in the foot.
The back cross brace adds extra security and stability.
Key Features:
- Convenient handgrip
- Wide steps
- Sturdy frame
- Non-marring feet
- Back cross brace
Pros
- Fully assembled
- Very safe and secure for users
Cons
- Pricey
Product Specification:
| Item Weight | 20.6 pounds |
| Dimension | 56 x 18.3 x 2.2 inches |
| Brand | Delxo |
| Style | Lock design |
| Ideal for | Cleaning, painting or simply to reach up a high place |
9. Support Plus Folding 4-Step Safety Step Ladder
This ladder features a handy tool bag at the top of the ladder which allows you to carry all the necessary tools when working. You won’t need extra pair of hands for some simple house upgrade projects.
It’s designed with safety in mind. Top and side handrails bring more secure feeling when you go up and down the ladder. The padded dual handrails are for firm grips. The large and treaded steps give you the strong foundation to stand on as long as you want without foot and ankle strain.
Key Features:
- Steel frame
- Large and treaded steps
- Padded dual handrails for firm grips
- Top and side handrails for more safety
- Non-marring feet
- Handy tool bag at the top of the ladder
Pros
- Space-saving folding design
- Easy to use
- Easy to store
Cons
- Handrails can get bent when using
Product Specification:
| Item Weight | 25.8 pounds |
| Dimension | 33 x 19.5 x 63.2 inches |
| Brand | Support Plus |
| Size | 4-step |
| Ideal for | Indoor use |
10. Best Choice Products Portable Folding Steel 4-Step Stool Ladder
It can be fold to 3 inch flat so you can easily tuck it away when not using. This ladder is not only for indoor activities but also for outdoor jobs like paiting walls or trimming trees. It’s weather-resistant and made of anti-corrosion steel.
It’s safe for all your DIY tasks. Wide steps help accomodating your feet comfortably and securely. The bottom feet is covered with rubber to make sure it can stand firmly without harming the floor.
You can easily carry it around the house or to the garden. It’s designed to open and fold smoothly with the modern fold-and-lock mechanism.
Maximum weight capacity is up to 330 pounds, it’s built for heavy-duty jobs.
Key Features:
- High-grade steel frame
- Large and slip-resistant rubber steps
- Can stand weather better than many other ladders
- High handrails for balance
Pros
- Affordable price
- Easy to use
- Can handle heavy-duty task
- Portable
- Folding design
- No assembly required
Cons
- No back cross brace for making sure the ladder not opening up when climbing higher
Product Specification:
| Item Weight | 19.84 pounds |
| Dimension | 34.5 x 18.3 x 50 inches |
| Brand | Best Choice Products |
| Size | 4-step |
| Ideal for | Perfect for both indoor and outdoor use |
11. Little Giant 10410BA Safety Step Four Step Ladder
(Best for Outdoor Activities)
This ladder features an aerospace-grade aluminum frame that can hold up to 300 lbs. The frame is also corrosion-resistant.
It can be folded to 5.5 inches which saves you a lot of storage space.
The ladder does wonderful jobs around your home and could be brought along with you in your camping trip or any outside events. The construction of the ladder is so strong and yet still lightweight enough for carrying around.
It’s an ideal ladder if you want extra height to reach to the cabinet or some tree branch or top of the RVs. Wide steps make all the work more comfortable, even the heavy-duty ones.
Key Features:
- Aerospace-grade aluminum frame
- Elegant and compact design
- Wide and anti-slip steps
- Tray for holding tools
- Wheels included
- Safety bar for balance
Pros
- It’s made of corrosion-resistant aluminum
- Fodable for storage
- Portable
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
Cons
- Get problems with the safety bar sometimes
Product Specification:
| Item Weight | 27.5 pounds |
| Dimension | 55.5 x 23 x 5.5 inches |
| Brand | Little Giant |
| Size | 4- Step |
| Ideal for | Indoor and outdoor activities |
12. Giantex Lightweight 3-Step Stool Ladder
It’s interesting to know that Giantex Lightweight 3-step ladder can be used as a ladder, a stool or a display shelf in your house at the same time.
This ladder is made of heavy-duty aluminum so it’s very strong, sturdy and durable. You can climb up and down from both sides of the ladder.
It’s also lightweight and easy to carry around when needed. The lock and release system ensures stability and safety.
In comparison with most ladders at the same type, the top platform of this Giantex Lightweight 3-Step Stool is wider and more comfortable for standing.
Key Features:
- Anti-slip rubber feet
- Corrision-resistant and strong aluminum frame
- Wide top platform and wide steps
- Safe lock system
Pros
- Used for multi-purpose
- Easy to store
- Fold and unfold easily
- Portable
Cons
- Costly
Product Specification:
| Item Weight | 7.5 pounds |
| Dimension | 24.8 x 16.7 x 23.8 inches |
| Brand | Giantex |
| Type | 23.8’’H |
| Ideal for | Various works in kitchen, garden, garage, office, painting, camp or farm |
13. Werner FTP6206 Ladder
(Best for Cutting Hedges)
If you are a true gardener and want to buy a ladder to take better care of your growing trees, pick fruits or trim hedges, this is a perfect choice. It’s strongly built fiberglass ladder which is weather-resistant and corrision-resistant, ideal for outdoor jobs.
The replaceable treaded feet allow the ladder to stand firmly on uneven ground.
I have to say that this tripod ladder has more advantages than usual type because it’s designed to be able to come closer to the place you want to reach. It’s convenient for cutting hedges or working in tight corners.
Key Features:
- Durable fiberglass frame
- Tripod style design
- Double riveted, traction-tred steps for anti-slip footing
- Treaded feet for extra security
- Top tray for tools
Pros
- Easy to work in tight places
- Ideal for outdoor jobs
Cons
- A little bit heavy for carrying around
Product Specification:
| Item Weight | 24 pounds |
| Dimension | 72 x 36 x 7 inches |
| Brand | Werner |
| Size | 6 feet |
| Ideal for | Picking fruit or trimming trees |
14. Werner D1116-2 Extension-Ladder
(Best for Getting on Roof)
This aluminum extension ladder has a 200 lbs duty rating means it’s only used for light-duty tasks. You can do cleaning around the house, especially task required to reach higher places for example cleaning or repairing the roof.
It can be extended to a maximum of 16 feet, which allows you to climb up the roof easily and safely. Do not bring heavy tools with you because the ladder can only bear up to 200 lbs. Exceeded weight might cause it broken.
Key Features:
- Elegant and well-built construction
- The traction D Rung for anti-slip rung
- Exclusive Alflo rung joint means Twist-Proof performance
- Non-marring feet
- Spring-loaded locks for open and close easily
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry around
- Easy to operate
- Durable
- Ideal for one-story roof
- No rope or pulley needed
Cons
- Only 200 lbs allowed
Product Specification:
| Item Weight | 17.3 pounds |
| Dimension | 5.8 x 48.6 x 18.4 inches |
| Brand | Werner |
| Size | 16 Feet |
| Ideal for | Climbing the roof |
15. Little Giant Adjustable Step Ladder
(Best for Stairs)
This heavy-duty ladder can hold up to 300 pounds and exceeds the OSHA and ANSI quality standards. It comes with large heel-to-toe top platform for extra safety when climbing up higher. Moreover, the large step helps to avoid foot pain when you have to stand for an extended period.
You can adjust the height of the ladder due to its Rock lock system from 5 feet to 8 feet.
The air deck is included for holding tools and materials, and also acts as the safety handle for extra stability.
Key Features:
- Aluminum frame for lightweight and durability
- Safety handrails for added security
- Rock Lock system that allows you to adjust the height of the ladder quickly
- Tray for holding tools
Pros
- Well-designed, solid and stable
- Easy to adjust the desired heights
- Great for staircases and uneven surfaces
- Easy for storage
Cons
- A little bit heavy
Product Specification:
| Item Weight | 31 pounds |
| Dimension | 9 x 27 x 97 inches |
| Brand | Little Giant |
| Size | 5-8 Feet |
| Ideal for | Staircases and uneven surfaces |
Buying Guide
You should conside these following factors carefully if you want to buy best step ladders in the market.
Height
You should pay attention to the height of the ladder when reading product information. Believe me you do not want to buy a ladder that is not suitable for your needs, for example too high or too low.
It’s necessary for you to estimate the desired height of the ladder based on your own height. Just do some simple calculations to find the maximum height you can get when standing on it. An average person can reach more than 4 feet plus the height of the ladder and minus about two steps because you cannot stand on the top of the ladder.
Note down the height of the ladder in different configurations and see where you can store it.
Weight
If you accidentally carry things that are too much for the ladder, there’s a high risk that the ladder will break and you will fall. There are few standards for the maximum weight capacity known as the duty rating of a ladder.
| Type IAA (Extra Heavy Duty) | 375 pounds |
| Type IA (Extra Heavy Duty) | 300 pounds |
| Type I (Heavy Duty) | 250 pounds |
| Type II (Medium Duty) | 225 pounds |
| Type III (Light Duty) | 200 pounds |
So make sure you know what type of your ladder is when buying.
Types Of Ladders
Besides height and weight, ladders are classified by their functionality.
There are some popular types of ladder you will come across when choosing the right one for yourself such as step ladders, step stools, extension ladder, telescoping ladder.
Material
Only two dominant materials in the market nowadays you should consider depending on your preferences. Fiberglass ladders are for durability and overall safety. Aluminum ladders are for portability and affordable price.
FAQs
Surely you will also have some questions popping into your heads when looking for the best ladder. Let’s explore together.
My Top Pick
I just walk you through 15 best step ladders that I have spent time researching carefully. And my choice is Little Giant 22-Foot Velocity Multi-Use Ladder for its reliability, adaptability, and stability.
I hope it will be helpful for you to find your step ladder, which suits your needs perfectly and soon do some home makeover in 2023.
How about you? Do you have any choice in your mind yet? Feel free to share it with me.
