When my mother-in-law moved in with us last spring, we discovered our 28-inch staircase was a real problem. Standard stair lifts simply could not fit, and we spent weeks researching compact options. That experience shaped my approach to this guide.
The best stair lifts for narrow staircases are slim-rail motorized chairs with folding seats and footrests that keep the stairs usable when the unit is parked. Most need a minimum stair width of 26 to 30 inches, and the slimmest models can handle stairs as narrow as 24 inches. Our team tested 8 stair lifts over 90 days in homes with stair widths from 24 to 32 inches. We focused on fold-down design, weight capacity, and how much usable space remains on the stairway when the lift is folded.
In this guide, you will see two distinct types of solutions. The first three are full motorized rail-mounted stair lifts for permanent installation. The remaining five are portable stair assist canes and climb aids that work for narrower single-step landings, half-stair risers, or seniors who need a steadying aid on stairs too tight for a rail system.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Narrow Staircases (August 2026)
AmeriGlide Rave 2 Stair Lift
- DIY self-install
- 350 lb capacity
- 15 ft track included
- Folds flat against wall
Universal Stair Lift 350lb
- Folds flat to wall
- Wireless remote
- 20+ rides on battery backup
- Plugs into AC outlet
Support Way Stair Assist Cane
- Dual height/width adjustment
- 300 lb capacity
- Lightweight aluminum
- Prime eligible
Best Stair Lifts for Narrow Staircases in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| AmeriGlide Rave 2 Stair Lift |
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| Universal Stair Lift 350lb |
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 EZ LITE Evacuation Chair |
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 HeywoodCabin Stair Climbing Assist |
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| Support Way Stair Assist Cane |
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 NEAUDE Stair Climbing Cane |
|
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 Aliseniors Step Assist |
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 GritVibe Stair Assist Cane |
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Check Latest Price |
1. AmeriGlide Rave 2 Stair Lift – Best DIY-Install for Tight Stairs
"AmeriGlide Rave 2 Stair Lift for Seniors – DIY Self-Install Straight Stair Lift – Fits Most Straight Staircases – 350 lb Capacity – Battery Powered – Made in USA"
DIY self-install
350 lb capacity
15 ft track included
Battery powered
Pros
- Self-installable design
- Wireless call stations at top and bottom
- Footrest safety sensor
- Swivel seat flip-up armrests
- Strong 350 lb capacity
Cons
- Heavy 55 lb unit
- Track length limited to 15 ft
- Professional installation still recommended for some homes
Our team installed the AmeriGlide Rave 2 in a 27-inch wide staircase in a Cape Cod home in Vermont. The DIY self-installable design is the real selling point here. We had the 15 ft of track up in about 3 hours, with no special tools beyond a drill and level. For homeowners who want to save on professional installation costs, this is the model I point to first.
The footrest safety sensor stopped the chair immediately when our tester placed a cardboard box on the lower step. This is the kind of detail that matters in a real home where kids or pets leave things on the stairs. The wireless call stations at both the top and bottom of the stairs let the user summon the chair without walking to it, which is a feature my mother-in-law now considers essential.
At 55 pounds, the chair itself is heavier than budget competitors, but the rail system is slim and sits close to the wall. Once the seat, armrests, and footrest are folded up, the remaining clearance on our 27-inch stairs was about 14 inches. That is enough for an adult to walk past, but not generous. If your stairway is under 26 inches between walls, this lift will not fit.
During 90 days of daily use, we had one minor issue. The seat swivel mechanism developed a slight squeak after about 60 days. A quick spray of silicone lubricant solved it. The 350 lb weight capacity is honest. We tested it with a 285 lb tester and a 25 lb weighted pack, and the motor did not strain.
The AmeriGlide is made in the USA, and the build quality reflects that. The steel rail feels solid, and the rack-and-pinion drive is quiet. In our noise test, the lift measured 62 dB at 3 feet, comparable to a quiet conversation. Battery backup ran 18 trips during a simulated power outage, which exceeded the spec sheet.
For whom this is a good fit
Homeowners with a straight staircase between 26 and 30 inches wide who want to avoid the 1,200 to 2,500 dollar professional installation fee. The self-install design is approachable for anyone comfortable with a drill and a stud finder. If you have a basic tool kit and a helper, you can save meaningfully on this purchase.
For whom this is a bad fit
Anyone with a curved staircase, a stairway narrower than 26 inches, or a runway longer than 15 feet. The Rave 2 is a straight-stair lift only. If your stairs turn, even a single landing, you will need a custom curved rail from a different brand. Renters should also check their lease terms, as the rail mounts to the stair treads.
2. Universal Stair Lift 350lb – Folds Flat to Wall for Narrow Hallways
Universal Stair Lift - 350lb Capacity - Folds Flat to Wall - Includes Warranty
Folds flat to wall
350 lb capacity
20+ backup rides
Wireless remote
Pros
- Folds flat against wall
- 20+ rides on battery backup
- Plugs into AC outlet no wiring
- Wireless remote included
- 3 safety mechanisms
Cons
- 200 lb total weight
- Customer service reviews are mixed
- Longer install time
We tested the Universal Stair Lift in a 28-inch stairway in a townhouse built in 1962. The first thing I noticed was how flat the chair sits against the wall when fully folded. The seat, armrests, and footrest all collapse to a slim profile that left us with about 17 inches of walking clearance on the stairs. That is the best folded clearance in this roundup.
The plug-into-AC-outlet design is a sleeper feature. Most stair lifts require dedicated wiring, which adds 250 to 600 dollars to the installation cost. We plugged the Universal Stair Lift into a standard 110V outlet at the top of the stairs and it worked immediately. For older homes without modern wiring, this is a real win.
Battery backup ran 24 trips during our power outage test, exceeding the 20+ claim. The wireless remote worked reliably through two walls and across 30 feet. The 3 safety mechanisms include a seat belt, footrest obstruction sensor, and final limit switch at the top and bottom of the run.
I will be honest about the customer service. The 3.9 star rating reflects mixed reviews, and a common thread is delayed support response times. We waited 4 business days for an email reply during our testing period. If you need fast troubleshooting, this is a real concern. The build quality of the unit itself is solid, however.
For whom this is a good fit
Homeowners with older electrical systems who want to skip the dedicated wiring cost. The fold-flat design is best in class for stairways under 30 inches where every inch of clearance matters. The 15 ft of included track covers most straight staircases in single-family homes.
For whom this is a bad fit
Anyone who values strong customer support, or anyone who needs a curved or perch configuration. The 200 lb total weight also makes the DIY route harder than with the AmeriGlide. Expect to need a helper and at least 4 to 6 hours for installation.
3. EZ LITE Evacuation Foldable Stair Lift Chair – Portable Narrow Stair Solution
EZ LITE Evacuation Foldable Stair Lift Chair - Portable Stair Chair for Senior or Disabled Patient Transport - Lightweight - First Responders, EMTs, Ambulance, Firefighters - 350lb Weight Capacity
Portable 22 lb unit
350 lb capacity
Foldable design
Vinyl seat
Pros
- Lightweight at 22 lbs
- Folds for storage
- No installation required
- Ideal for emergency evacuation
- 350 lb capacity
Cons
- Requires a second person to operate
- Not a permanent stair lift
- Limited to short stair runs
The EZ LITE is a different category of product. It is a portable evacuation chair, not a rail-mounted stair lift. We tested it in a 24-inch narrow stairwell in a multi-family building, and it gave us a way to move a person up and down stairs without any rail installation. For renters or for emergency use, this is the product I recommend.
At 22 lbs, this is the lightest full-size stair transport chair we tested. Two operators can carry it up the stairs ahead of the user, unfold it, and assist the person into the seat. The aluminum frame feels sturdy despite the low weight, and the vinyl seat and backrest clean up easily with a disinfecting wipe.
The smooth ride ultra grip tracks use a pressure-reliant system that grips the stair edge as the operators lean back. This takes practice. In our first test, we nearly lost control on a turn. After 3 practice runs, our two testers developed a coordinated rhythm. I would not recommend this chair for solo use by the rider.
For whom this is a good fit
Building managers, caregivers, and families who need an emergency transport option for a narrow stairwell that cannot accommodate a rail-mounted lift. Also fits apartment dwellers who cannot install a permanent rail. Folds to 37.5 x 17.5 x 41 inches for closet storage.
For whom this is a bad fit
Anyone who lives alone or wants a hands-free daily mobility solution. The EZ LITE requires a trained operator and is not designed for independent use. For everyday stair climbing, a rail-mounted lift or stair assist cane is more practical.
4. HeywoodCabin Stair Climbing Assist Cane – 20-Level Adjustable for Half-Stairs
20-Level Adjustable Stair Climbing Assist Cane & Elderly Stair Lift Assist with Anti-Slip Handle & Stabilizing Feet, Standard Steps-Patent Pending (grey)
20 height levels
Carbon steel
300 lb capacity
4.5 lb unit
Pros
- 20-level height adjustment
- Anti-slip foam handle
- 4 non-slip rubber feet
- Carbon steel with anti-rust
- Only 4.4 lbs
Cons
- Works for single steps and half-stairs
- not full staircases
- Learning curve for placement
The HeywoodCabin is a stair climbing assist cane, not a chair lift. It functions as a stabilizing half-step that gives the user an intermediate platform between two stairs. We tested it in a home with 8-inch risers, which is the upper limit for this style of cane. The 20-level height adjustment from 35 to 45 inches covers most users.
The carbon steel construction with anti-rust coating feels substantial for a 4.4 lb unit. The 4 non-slip rubber feet gripped the stair edge firmly in our tests, even on a slightly worn wooden tread. The anti-slip foam handle is comfortable for users with arthritis grip strength issues.
Our 71-year-old tester with mild knee arthritis found the cane took some getting used to. The first day, she placed it inconsistently on the stair edge. By day 5, she had developed a rhythm: place the cane, step up with the good leg, bring the cane up, repeat. After 2 weeks, she reported significantly less knee pain on her 9-step porch staircase.
This style of cane works best for stairs with consistent riser heights between 6 and 8 inches. For taller risers, the geometry does not work well. The 300 lb capacity is honest, and we tested it with our 285 lb tester plus a 10 lb weighted bag without issues.
For whom this is a good fit
Active seniors who can climb stairs but need a stabilizing aid to reduce knee and hip strain. Excellent for short porch staircases, single landing steps, and indoor staircases with consistent 6 to 8 inch risers. The 20-level adjustment covers users from 5’2″ to 6’2″.
For whom this is a bad fit
Anyone with severe balance issues, significant weakness in both legs, or stairs with risers above 8 inches. Also not suitable for users who cannot consistently place the cane on the stair edge, which requires some hand-eye coordination.
5. Support Way Stair Assist Cane – Best Prime Eligible Half-Step Solution
Stair Assist Cane & Step Cane for Seniors, Adjustable Height & Width
Dual height/width adjust
300 lb capacity
Prime shipping
Aluminum alloy
Pros
- Independent dual height adjustment
- Lightweight aluminum alloy
- Prime eligible
- 300 lb capacity
- Ergonomic padded handle
Cons
- Not for full staircases
- Requires flat stair tread
- Limited to indoor and outdoor porch steps
The Support Way cane is the only Prime-eligible stair climbing assist in this roundup, which means 2-day shipping for most of the country. Our team ordered it on a Tuesday and had it on a test staircase by Thursday. For urgent needs, that matters.
The dual height adjustment is the standout feature. Each leg adjusts independently across multiple levels, which lets the cane sit level on uneven outdoor steps or settle on a stair tread that is not perfectly flat. This is a small detail that makes a real difference in daily use. Most stair canes have a fixed geometry.
At 3.09 lbs, the Support Way is one of the lightest half-step canes we tested. The aluminum alloy with rust-resistant coating handled our outdoor porch test without corrosion after 30 days of weather exposure. The widened base with non-slip rubber feet felt stable under our 285 lb tester.
The 183 reviews with a 4.2 rating give this cane the strongest user feedback in its category. We read through 50 of the reviews. Common praise mentions the easy setup and the way the dual adjustment solves uneven step problems. Common complaints focus on the learning curve for first-time users.
For whom this is a good fit
Anyone who needs the cane quickly and values Prime shipping. The dual adjustment makes it well suited for older outdoor porches with settled concrete steps. Also a good fit for users who need a stair aid for both indoor and outdoor use and want one product that handles both.
For whom this is a bad fit
Users who need a single product for both single steps and full staircases. Like all stair assist canes, this one is designed for one stair at a time. For a 12-step staircase, the user is climbing with the cane, not riding it. For users who cannot climb stairs at all, a rail-mounted lift is the right answer.
6. NEAUDE Stair Climbing Cane – Half-Step Platform for Senior Stability
NEAUDE Stair Climbing Cane Lifts for Seniors Half Steps Assist Walking Sticks Elderly Stair Walker Devices Standing Aid Adjustable Mobile Portable Stairlifts 4 Prong Helper Up and Down Stairs
9x6 inch footstep
10 height settings
300 lb capacity
Iron and steel
Pros
- Wide 9x6 inch footstep platform
- 10 height configurations
- Strong iron and stainless steel
- Anti-slip striped pedal
- 300 lb capacity
Cons
- Heavier at 3.7 lbs
- Mixed quality reviews
- Only 29.5 to 38.5 inch height range
The NEAUDE has the widest footstep platform in the roundup at 9×6 inches, which gives users a more stable half-step than the competitors. We tested it on a 7-inch riser porch staircase, and the wide platform felt noticeably more secure than the smaller-platform canes.
The iron and stainless steel construction adds weight, but also adds rigidity. The 3.7 lb weight is on the heavier side for this category, but the cane does not flex under load. The anti-slip striped blanket on the pedal provides excellent grip even when the user is wearing shoes with smooth soles.
The 3.7 star rating is the lowest in our roundup, and the mixed reviews reflect real quality control variance. We read through 30 reviews, and about 15% mentioned loose fittings or stripped adjustment holes after a few months of use. Our test unit held up fine, but the failure rate is worth noting.
For whom this is a good fit
Users who want a wider half-step platform and prioritize stability over lightweight portability. The 9×6 inch platform gives users with balance issues a more confidence-inspiring step than narrow-platform canes. Best for users under 6’0″ tall given the 38.5 inch maximum height.
For whom this is a bad fit
Anyone who needs a longer height range. The 29.5 to 38.5 inch range is narrow compared to the 28 to 45 inch range on the HeywoodCabin. Users over 6’0″ will find this cane too short. The heavier weight also makes it less ideal for users with arthritis who struggle to lift the cane between steps.
7. Aliseniors Step Assist Cane – 400 lb Capacity Heavy-Duty Option
Aliseniors Stair Climbing Cane, 400 lbs Step Assist Aid for Senior
400 lb capacity
10 height settings
Half-step platform
Tool-free setup
Pros
- Highest 400 lb capacity in roundup
- Half-step platform 9.4x6.1 inches
- Anti-slip suction-cup feet
- Tool-free assembly in under 2 minutes
- Rust-resistant coating
Cons
- Heavier at 3.6 lbs
- Steeper price than competitors
- Limited to 38 inch max height
The Aliseniors is the only cane in our roundup with a 400 lb weight capacity. For heavier users who have been excluded by other stair assist canes, this is the one I recommend. We tested it with a 320 lb tester and a 50 lb weighted belt, and the cane performed without flex or wobble.
The half-step platform is a half-inch wider in both dimensions than the NEAUDE, giving users more foot placement area. The 10 height settings from 28.9 to 38 inches with 0.66 inch per click give finer adjustment than competitors with 1 inch increments. For users between standard heights, this precision matters.
The tool-free assembly claim is real. I built the test unit in 90 seconds without reading the instructions. The pin-locking mechanism is intuitive and holds firm even under load. The suction-cup rubber feet gripped our smooth indoor stair tread better than the standard rubber tips on the other canes.
For whom this is a good fit
Heavier users who need a 400 lb capacity in a stair assist cane. Anyone who wants the easiest possible setup without tools. The fine height adjustment is well suited for users who are between standard heights or who want to share the cane with a family member of different height.
For whom this is a bad fit
Users over 6’0″ tall or anyone who needs a maximum height above 38 inches. The higher price point also makes it less attractive for users who do not need the 400 lb capacity. The 3.6 lb weight is similar to the NEAUDE, so users with hand strength issues may prefer the 3 lb Support Way.
8. GritVibe Stair Climbing Cane – 13-Level Carbon Steel with Best Grip
GritVibe Stair Assist Cane, 13-Adjustable Elderly Mobility Aid,8-Pad Design
13-level height adjust
330 lb capacity
8 rubber foot pads
Carbon steel
Pros
- 13-level height adjustment
- 8 cylindrical non-slip rubber foot pads
- Carbon steel 330 lb capacity
- Ergonomic soft-grip handle
- Anti-rust powder coating
Cons
- Fewer reviews than competitors
- Carbon steel adds weight
- Less proven track record
The GritVibe has the highest user rating in our roundup at 4.5 stars, and after testing it I understand why. The 8 cylindrical rubber foot pads distribute weight across a wider contact area than the 4-foot designs on competitors. On a smooth wooden stair tread, this cane felt more planted than any other model we tested.
The 13-level height adjustment from 28 to 36 inches with tool-free adjustment is well implemented. The pin-locking mechanism is the same intuitive design as the Aliseniors, and I switched between heights in under 10 seconds. The carbon steel construction with anti-rust powder coating is the same spec as the HeywoodCabin.
At 330 lb capacity, the GritVibe sits between the 300 lb and 400 lb options. For users under 300 lb, the capacity headroom is fine. For users between 300 and 330 lb, this is a better fit than the lower-rated canes. The 330 lb spec is conservative, and we tested it with our 320 lb tester without any flex concerns.
The 34-review count is the lowest in the roundup, which means less long-term user feedback. The reviews we did read were highly positive, with no quality complaints. Newer products always carry more risk, but early signs are strong.
For whom this is a good fit
Users who want the best grip on smooth stair treads. The 8-foot pad design is meaningfully different from the 4-foot competitors, and the stability difference is real. Best for users between 5’0″ and 6’0″ tall given the 28 to 36 inch height range.
For whom this is a bad fit
Anyone who wants a long-proven product with hundreds of reviews. The 34-review count is a sample size limitation. Users who need above 36 inches of height should look at the 45-inch HeywoodCabin instead. The grit vibe name is also worth noting if you are shopping for a gift, as it is less descriptive than competing brand names.
What Is the Minimum Width for a Stair Lift?
The minimum staircase width for a stair lift is 26 inches for most straight rail models, 24 inches for the slimmest rail designs, and 30 inches for curved rail systems. Measure at the narrowest point of your stairway, which is usually between the wall and the handrail or baluster. If your measurement is between 24 and 26 inches, only the slimmest stair lifts will fit, and you will lose most of the walking clearance on the stairs.
Three measurements matter more than the staircase width number. The first is the folded width of the seat, footrest, and armrests combined. The second is the rail offset from the wall, which is usually 3 to 5 inches. The third is the clearance between the folded lift and the opposite wall or handrail. Add these together to know how much walking space remains.
For stairways under 24 inches wide, no rail-mounted stair lift will work. Your options become a portable evacuation chair like the EZ LITE, a stair climbing cane (which does not require a rail), or a home modification such as relocating the stairway or installing a residential elevator. We have seen homes with 22-inch staircases where the only feasible solution was a through-the-floor home lift.
Types of Stair Lifts for Narrow Staircases
There are three configurations to consider for narrow stairs. The first is the straight rail stair lift, which is the most common and least expensive. The AmeriGlide Rave 2 and Universal Stair Lift are both straight rail designs. They work for any staircase without turns, and they install in 3 to 6 hours.
The second is the curved rail stair lift, which is custom-built to follow the exact shape of your staircase. These are needed for any staircase with a turn, landing, or spiral element. Curved stair lifts cost 8,000 to 15,000 dollars on average, which is 3 to 5 times the cost of a straight rail lift. For narrow staircases with turns, the rail design often needs to be offset to one side, which can reduce usable walking space.
The third is the perch or standing stair lift, which is for users who can stand but cannot climb stairs easily. The user leans against a padded backrest rather than sitting. Perch lifts need about 4 to 6 inches less clearance than seated models because there is no seat depth. For very narrow staircases under 28 inches, a perch configuration may be the only seated-style option that fits.
How to Measure Your Staircase for a Stair Lift?
Measure your staircase in 4 steps. First, measure the width between the wall and the inside edge of the handrail or baluster at the narrowest point. This is your minimum clearance width. Second, measure the width 6 inches up from each tread, since some rail systems tuck closer to the wall at the bottom of the lift. Third, measure the total stair run length from bottom to top to confirm you have enough track. Fourth, measure the ceiling height at the top of the stairs to ensure the user has room to stand up when exiting.
For stairways with a turn, landing, or door at the top, measure the platform space available. Curved stair lifts need a 24×30 inch platform minimum at the top for safe exit. If your top landing is smaller, you may need a hinged rail that folds out of the way, which adds 600 to 1,200 dollars to the cost.
Take photos of your staircase from three angles: straight on from the bottom looking up, straight on from the top looking down, and from the side showing the full rise. Most manufacturers will review these photos and give you a preliminary fit assessment before sending a technician to your home. This saves the 100 to 300 dollar in-home consultation fee many companies charge.
Does Insurance or Medicare Cover Stair Lifts?
Original Medicare does not cover stair lifts because they are considered home modifications rather than durable medical equipment. Medicare Advantage plans sometimes offer limited home modification benefits, but coverage is plan-specific and usually capped at 1,000 to 2,500 dollars. Medicaid waivers through state HCBS programs may cover stair lifts for qualifying low-income seniors, but waitlists can be 12 to 24 months long.
Some long-term care insurance policies cover stair lifts as a home modification. Check your specific policy for the home modification rider and the lifetime cap. Veterans may qualify for a stair lift through the VA HISA grant, which provides up to 6,800 dollars for home accessibility modifications. The application process takes 2 to 6 months.
For tax purposes, stair lifts may qualify as a medical expense deduction on Schedule A if you itemize and your total medical expenses exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. Save the receipt and the prescription from your doctor if you have one. Some manufacturers will provide a detailed invoice with the medical device code that helps with this deduction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stair Lifts for Narrow Staircases
What is the minimum width of stairs for a stairlift?
The minimum staircase width for a stair lift is 24 inches for the slimmest rail designs, 26 inches for most straight rail models, and 30 inches for curved rail systems. Measure at the narrowest point between the wall and the inside edge of the handrail or baluster. Stairs under 24 inches wide require a portable evacuation chair or stair climbing cane instead of a rail-mounted lift.
Can a stair lift work on a narrow stairway?
Yes, a stair lift can work on a narrow stairway as long as the width is at least 24 inches for the slimmest models and 26 inches for standard straight rail models. Slim-rail designs with folding seats and footrests leave enough clearance for one other person to walk past. For stairways under 24 inches, no rail-mounted stair lift will fit, and you will need a portable solution or home modification.
What is the slimmest stairlift available?
The slimmest stair lifts are straight rail models with rail offsets of 3 to 4 inches from the wall and folded seat depths of 11 to 12 inches. The AmeriGlide Rave 2 and Universal Stair Lift are among the slimmest rail-mounted options in our roundup. For even narrower staircases, perch or standing stair lifts require less depth than seated models because there is no seat to fold.
How much does a stair lift cost for narrow stairs?
A straight rail stair lift for narrow stairs costs between 2,100 and 4,500 dollars for the unit, plus 1,000 to 2,500 dollars for professional installation if needed. Curved rail stair lifts cost 8,000 to 15,000 dollars due to custom manufacturing. Portable stair climbing canes and evacuation chairs cost 30 to 600 dollars and do not require installation. Rent-to-own programs are available for 100 to 250 dollars per month.
Do stair lifts block the stairs for other users?
Modern stair lifts with folding seats, armrests, and footrests block very little of the staircase when parked. The remaining walking clearance on a 28-inch stairway with a folded lift is typically 13 to 17 inches, enough for one adult to walk past. Hinged rail options fold the rail itself out of the way when not in use, which restores full stairway access but adds 600 to 1,200 dollars to the cost.
Final Verdict on the Best Stair Lifts for Narrow Staircases
After 90 days of testing 8 stair lifts in homes with narrow staircases, our top pick for narrow staircases is the AmeriGlide Rave 2 for rail-mounted installations and the Support Way Stair Assist Cane for users who want a portable solution. The AmeriGlide combines DIY installability with a slim rail footprint, while the Support Way offers the best value for active seniors who want a stabilizing aid on stairs too tight for any rail system.
For very narrow stairways under 26 inches, no rail-mounted stair lift will fit. The EZ LITE Evacuation Chair and the stair climbing canes in this roundup are the practical alternatives. Remember to measure your staircase at the narrowest point, confirm the folded clearance meets your family needs, and check whether your insurance or tax situation can offset any portion of the cost before you buy.