The 8 Best Ladders of 2023

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May 30, 2023

The 8 Best Ladders of 2023

When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more. By allowing you to reach beyond your standing height, the best ladders enable you to tackle various projects you

When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more.

By allowing you to reach beyond your standing height, the best ladders enable you to tackle various projects you otherwise might hire a contractor for or just put off altogether. As long as they're used safely, ladders are an invaluable piece of equipment to have around.

Ladders can be intimidating if you're not experienced with them, and while ladders do come with some risk, they're much safer than climbing on counters or wobbly furniture to get the height you want. Following the safety guidelines put forth by the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) can also significantly reduce accidents.

As a former residential and commercial carpenter, I've worked in large-scale construction job sites and small apartments, both of which required various ladders. I've used this personal experience and the expertise of several experts in construction, painting, and home remodeling to put together this guide to the best ladders.

You can read more about how we test the best ladders and get some guidance on what type of ladder to choose down below.

Best overall: Gorilla GLX-5B Dual-Platform Aluminum Ladder - See at WalmartIf you're looking for a reliable, versatile ladder for general home use, the Gorilla GLX-5B Dual-Platform Aluminum Ladder delivers, providing a rock-solid frame and a variety of convenient features.

Best step stool: Rubbermaid RMA-2-COM 2-Step Aluminum Step Stool - See at WalmartImpressively thin and lightweight, the Rubbermaid RMA-2-COM 2-Step Aluminum Step Stool provides a sturdy platform when you need that extra foot or two.

Best multi-function: Gorilla MPXA Reach 18-Foot Multi-Position Aluminum Ladder - See at The Home DepotThe versatile Gorilla MPXA Reach 18-Foot Multi-Position Aluminum Ladder allows you to tackle a range of home DIY tasks, and its rugged construction is durable enough for heavy-duty projects.

Best lightweight: Little Giant 15270-001 Flip-N-Lite 6-Foot Aluminum Stepladder - See at WalmartEven though it only weighs 14 pounds, the Little Giant 15270-001 Flip-N-Lite 6-Foot Aluminum Stepladder is sturdy enough to support up to 300 pounds and provides a wide platform for standing.

Best extension: Werner D6228-2 Fiberglass Extension Ladder - See at WalmartConstructed of durable fiberglass and designed for easy operation, the Werner D6228-2 Fiberglass Extension Ladder is well-suited for both the average DIY-er and professional contractors.

Best aluminum: Gorilla Ladders 19-Foot Multi Position Aluminum Ladder - See at The Home DepotThe sturdy aluminum frame of the Gorilla Ladders 19 FT Multi position ladder converts into a range of useful positions, and provides a built-in project top for tool and accessory storage.

Best telescoping: Ohuhu 12.5-Foot Aluminum Telescoping Ladder - See at AmazonThose with limited storage space will appreciate the compact size of the Ohuhu Aluminum Telescoping Ladder, which converts into a 12.5 foot version when fully extended.

Best fiberglass: Louisville Cross-Step 6-Foot Ladder - See at AmazonThanks to a unique design, the Louisville Cross-Step 6 ft positions users closer to their work surface, and also doubles as a straight ladder for leaning against walls.

Height: 5.5 feet

Material: Aluminum

Weight capacity: 300 pounds

Ladder weight: 17.6 pounds

Steps: 4

Type: Stepladder

Wheels: No

Incorporated tool holder: Yes

Pros: Affordable, easy to operate, project bucket included

Cons: Aluminum frame is not recommended for use around electrical wiring

The first thing that caught my attention when using the Gorilla GLX-5B ladder was how easy it was to operate. Its plastic handle and smooth mechanics allow it to pop right open, even one-handed. That makes it especially useful for tasks that involve transporting a lot of gear and supplies, like large painting projects.

Another key feature I loved about the Gorilla GLX-5B was its dual platform design. By giving you two height options to choose from, this model lets you position yourself closer to your work area, which reduces your chances of losing your balance while you work.

In addition to the standard top cap with cutouts for organizing tools and fasteners, the Gorilla GLX-5B also includes a removable project bucket. This bucket attaches securely to the top of the ladder, providing valuable storage space for paint supplies, hand tools, or other project accessories. You store it in the ladder's frame when not in use, so it doesn't get lost in the garage or shed.

Stability is essential when it comes to setting up and climbing ladders. The slip-resistant feet of the Gorilla GLX-5B reduce the chances of it slipping or sliding around. These feet are also non-marring, minimizing the chances of damaging or scuffing hardwood floors.

Even though the Gorilla GLX-5B is packed with all these handy features, it can still fold up to just 4.2 inches deep. This design is one of the reasons why Bolinger, a PPG Industries product manager, chose this ladder. "The main reason was its slim design when stored," he said. "It came with the project bucket on top, and it's lightweight."

Height: 3 feet

Material: Aluminum

Weight capacity: 225 pounds

Ladder weight: 5.3 pounds

Steps: 2

Type: Stepladder

Wheels: No

Incorporated tool holder: No

Pros: Affordable, easy to move and re-position

Cons: Not rugged enough for regular, heavy-duty use

Despite having a frame strong enough to support 225 pounds of weight, the aluminum Rubbermaid RMA-2-COM step stool takes up a small amount of room. It folds up to just 3.5 inches in width. This slim design makes the step stool easy to slide into a small closet. At only 6.6 pounds, it's suitable to hang on a garage wall.

What I appreciate about the Rubbermaid RMA-2-COM is its top platform. It features a long magnetic storage tray for small fasteners, a large cutout to hold a drill or hammer, and four holes for screwdrivers or nut drivers. A small utility hook flips out from the rear of the top cap, allowing you to hang a paint can or small storage bucket.

This project top also acts as a convenient hand-hold, allowing you to maintain three points of contact when climbing. Another safety feature of the Rubbermaid step stool is its oversized platform made of textured plastic, which provides a nice amount of grip and stability.

The plastic construction isn't as durable as more rugged metal models, but it should do the trick for light-duty tasks around the house.

Height: 18 feet

Material: Aluminum

Weight capacity: 300 pounds

Ladder weight: 30.5 pounds

Steps: 16

Type: Multi-Position

Wheels: No

Incorporated tool holder: No

Pros: Durable, can take the place of multiple ladders

Cons: Heavy and bulky

Capable of providing an 18-foot reach and supporting up to 300 pounds, the Gorilla MPXA Reach ladder is ideal for those who regularly tackle various tasks.

You can set up the ladder in several configurations. Use it as an A-frame, extension, or 90-degree wall ladder. I found it easy to operate in all its formats. Though it was a bit heavy, I was able to switch between these options quickly and easily.

Safety is the most important thing to keep in mind when selecting a ladder, and the Gorilla MPXA delivers. Its wide-flared legs, combined with slip-resistant foot pads, provide the stability you need to give yourself a secure, stable platform.

Its Gorilla Grip locks and oversized hinges make the ladder extra-sturdy, ensuring that the unit is secure after adjusting. I appreciated these features when using the Gorilla outdoors while rotating the ladder around a palm tree I was trimming.

Even though the Gorilla MPXA isn't the lightest ladder on the market, its weight is still decent for a multi-function model.

Gorilla is widely respected as a quality manufacturer and offers this type of multi-function ladder in a range of sizes. The 18-foot version is the best balance of size and function for most homes, but there are shorter and taller models if those suit your needs better.

Height: 6 feet

Material: Aluminum

Weight capacity: 300 pounds

Ladder weight: 14 pounds

Steps: 6

Type: Stepladder

Wheels: No

Incorporated tool holder: Yes

Pros: High max reach of 10 feet 3 inches, rubber feet add stability

Cons: Plastic components aren't as durable as metal

What makes the Little Giant Flip-N-Lite so great, apart from being extremely light for its size, is its release handle that unlocks the ladder when you're ready to open it. This handle is built into the platform and keeps the ladder securely closed, reducing the chances of it accidentally opening while you're carrying it around.

The Little Giant Flip-N-Lite is also easy to open one-handed. Its platform is a roomy 13 inches, and the remaining steps are 3 inches. These wide steps not only make climbing the Little Giant Flip-N-Lite more comfortable, but they also reduce the likelihood of sore and fatigued feet during all-day projects.

Sore feet are dangerous because they can cause you to constantly adjust your foot placement to take the pressure off your arches, which increases your chances of losing your balance.

The biggest drawback to the Little Giant Flip-N-Lite is that its top cap doesn't provide much storage functionality. It's just a basic tray for storing small hand tools and fasteners. Without holes for your drill or screwdrivers, you'll have to rely on your tool belt a bit more than with other models. That said, the narrow design of the top cap can be easier to grip to help maintain your balance while climbing up and down.

The light weight of the Little Giant Flip-N-Lite makes this an ideal choice for a multitude of users. Projects involving lots of moving around and repositioning of the ladder, like house painting, are much more enjoyable with a lightweight ladder like this. Also, since it's less of a hassle to move, you'll be less likely to try and overreach.

Though 6 feet is ideal for most homeowners, the Little Giant Flip-N-Lite also comes in 4- and 5-foot models.

Pros: 180-day return policy, pre-drilled holes allow for easy installation of accessories

Cons: Expensive, heavy

Thanks to its dual-action feet, you can use the Werner D6228-2 extension ladder just as easily indoors as outdoors. Rubber shoes provide a secure and solid grip, and they're also thick enough to protect delicate interior flooring from scratches.

When used outside on penetrable dirt, these feet flip out of the way to expose a spur plate that digs into the ground, providing secure footing. On the top of the ladder, mar-resistant end caps do their part to protect walls and siding, as well as the ladder itself.

Its gravity spring locks are the main reason why the Werner D6228-2 is so easy to use, smoothly clicking along the rungs until they reach your desired height. Guides at the top of the base and bottom of the fly allow the two pieces to smoothly slide up and down, reducing unnecessary effort by the user. If you prefer, you can remove the entire fly, leaving you with a lighter, compact base to use as a standalone ladder.

An important safety feature of the Werner D6228-2 is its Traction-Tred D-rung steps. The unique shape makes for a secure fitting in the rails and prevents rotation. The durable fiberglass rails of the Werner extension ladder are non-conductive to electricity, making it ideal for use around dangerous power sources or power lines.

Plus, the high-visibility orange color of the Werner D6228-2 makes any family members or coworkers less likely to accidentally bump into or trip over the ladder as you're using it.

Danny Cundiff, PPG Industries national accounts project manager, recommends Werner brand ladders in general. "Werner is kind of the gold standard for ladders at job sites and at home," he said. "They're fiberglass, so they're light but strong and not conductive."

Pros: Very easy to use, project top cap, 8.9 inches deep when closed

Cons: Heavy weight

If you're specifically interested in the durability and heavy-duty functionality that aluminum ladders provide — and have a wide range of DIY projects on the horizon — The Gorilla Ladders 19 FT Multi Position Aluminum Ladder is the best choice. This model easily converts into five different positions and a range of adjustable heights, from a 19-foot extension ladder to an almost unbelievably compact 5-foot version — just 8.9 inches deep — for storage.

Adjusting this ladder to your preferred position is also easy to do and required less effort than we expected. The two large palm buttons are comfortable to press when you want to open or close the ladder, and a loud "click" lets you know when it's locked into place. The rail locks–used to adjust the length of the telescoping inner section–are user-friendly as well, featuring large handles to grip and turn forwards and backwards. A large "¼ Turn" arrow diagram ensures that you'll always know which direction to turn.

Our favorite feature of this ladder, and what separates it from similar aluminum options, is that it features a built-in project top cap. When fully opened into extension mode, this project top ingeniously flips over and functions as a platform step. This design does result in a relatively small surface area for the project top, but it still features small compartments, tool holes, and even a recessed paint can section. It doesn't have a drill hole, but there is a narrow slot that your drill's belt hook can slide into.

Although its compact size is convenient to store, the Gorilla Ladders 19 FT Multi position ladder is somewhat heavy at 38.6 lbs and could be challenging for some users to lift and carry alone. That said, two built-in wheels were a big help when transporting the ladder down sidewalks and across our lawn. If you're less concerned with height and position options, the lighter and more compact Gorilla GLX-5B Dual-Platform Aluminum Ladder (our best overall pick) would probably be a better option.

Editor's note: We tested the 8.5 foot model of this ladder, which is not in stock at the moment, but the 12.5 foot model has many of the same features and is still our top pick for a telescoping ladder.

Pros: Very easy to transport and store, Simple to use

Cons: Not as versatile as a stepladder, No project top

We were initially skeptical of these telescoping ladders from Ohuhu, but ended up pleasantly surprised by their sturdiness and ease-of-use during testing. Capable of expanding to 12.5 feet and retracting to just 36 inches, this ladder is about as portable as they come.

It took a minute or two to get the hang of it, but adjusting the height of this ladder is a relatively simple process. You simply place your foot on the bottom rung for leverage, and pull up on the stacked rungs above it. These rung sections automatically lock into place as they extend, one after the other, until it reaches your desired height. To close the ladder, two thumb locks on the bottom rung collapse all sections at once, descending slow enough to prevent any pinched fingers. The included instruction manual walks you through these steps with helpful illustrations, although it does include quite a few typos.

Even at full height, we didn't find the Ohuhu ladder to be unstable or flimsy. Its aluminum tubing overlaps at 60% of its length when fully extended, and we didn't notice any excessive flex when climbing or descending. Unlike lower quality telescoping ladders, the Ohuhu has an ANSI duty rating, and safely supports 330 pounds of weight. The bottom feet caps didn't provide as much traction as the larger, chunkier versions on the other ladders I tested though, so proper positioning is particularly important.

Considering its impressive height, the most valuable feature of the Ohuhu 12.5 Ft Aluminum Telescoping Ladder is its portability. It's just 36-inches tall when fully closed, and an ergonomic hand grip allows you to transport it one-handed. A thick nylon strap wraps around the retracted rung sections too, keeping the entire unit tight and secure.

Pros: 2-in-1 design, very lightweight, can be leaned against corners

Cons: Locking latches take some getting used to

If you're interested in a fiberglass stepladder, we highly recommend the versatile Louisville Cross-Step 6 ft. Its unique cross-step design places you 6-inches closer to your work space, and, when closed, converts into a straight ladder you can lean against the wall. A V-shaped cutout in the project top provides even more placement options, allowing you to lean it against corners and poles without compromising balance.

Even with the cutout, the project top still provides a ton of functionality. In addition to a drill holster, two compartments for small accessories, and several tool holders, it also features a magnetic space to keep metal workpieces from rolling off, and a recessed groove for holding long items like 2x4s or piping.

We were also impressed with the overall portability of this ladder during testing. Its 21 lb weight was comfortable to carry and lift safely, and thanks to the cross-step design, only takes up 37 inches when opened up. This short spread makes the Louisville Cross-Step 6 ft convenient for use in tight or awkward spaces, and also easy to reposition while you work.

Despite this compact size and light weight, the Louisville Cross-Step is extremely sturdy, with a 1AA duty rating to support up to 300 pounds. We definitely noticed this sturdiness while walking up and down the slip-resistant steps during testing, and the rubber, non-marring feet provide even more stability, especially when used as a leaning ladder.

One of the main factors that contributes to ladder accidents is using the wrong type, so choosing the correct model is especially important. From small stepladders that give you those extra couple feet to reach the top of the fridge to tall extension ladders capable of reaching your rooftop, there are a variety of ladder styles and sizes to choose from.

It's important to know the differences between these styles and the specific tasks they're best suited for to ensure that you purchase the right model.

A-frame ladders: These are self-supporting, non-adjustable models designed to be folded up when not in use. Nick Yahoodain of Advanced Builders and Contractors recommends A-frame ladders for the average homeowner due to their versatility and convenience. "They can be used as standalone ladders in the middle of a room for changing light fixtures or folded up and leaned against the wall," he said. "You can even take two A-frame ladders and use them to support a scaffolding platform."

You can easily store A-frame ladders by propping them up against a wall, or you can hang them on a hook. A-frame ladders usually offer a multi-functional top cap that you can use to store tools and supplies while you work.

Step stools: These are technically still A-frame ladders but are typically smaller and used for light-duty tasks that require only a couple of extra feet of height. Their steps are usually designed to fold up along with the ladder itself, making them more compact and easy to slide into a closet or next to the fridge for easy access. Their lightweight design also makes them easier to maneuver around the home than larger A-frame ladders.

Extension ladders: These are the tall, straight ladders that you'll typically see leaning against houses being painted. Essentially, they're two ladders connected by a set of rails or slides, allowing the entire unit to extend to the length of both ladders. The bottom ladder or base sits on the ground, while the top ladder, the fly, slides upwards with a rope and pulley system. At the desired height, a locking mechanism secures the fly into place. Extension ladders are essential for high-elevation jobs like house painting, window washing, or roof work. Their large size does make them heavier and more challenging to store than other ladder types.

Multi-position ladders: These ladders are designed with a series of hinges and telescopic legs, allowing you to transform them into a variety of configurations and platforms. Multi-position ladders aren't as straightforward to use as other ladder styles, but they can be incredibly useful once you get the hang of them. By giving you the ability to adjust the length of either side, they're especially handy for use on staircases, with one side on the ground and the shorter side sitting on the stairs. You can configure some models into a platform to use as scaffolding. The major drawback to multi-position ladders is that they tend to be heavy and take up more room than other types.

Fiberglass versus aluminum: Most ladders are either fiberglass or aluminum, both of which have pros and cons. Fiberglass ladders are non-conductive to electricity, which is why they're recommended for use around power lines or other exposed electrical wiring. Aluminum ladders are usually lighter than fiberglass, making them easier to transport and carry around.

Ladder certification: Regardless of the ladder you choose, always make sure that it meets or exceeds all applicable Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards for product quality and safety. I've made sure to confirm that all of the ladders in our guide meet these standards.

For details on reliable ladder brands and ladder safety, I spoke with three experts: Nick Yahoodain of Advanced Builders & Contractors in Los Angeles, California; Brad Bolinger, PPG Industries product manager; and Danny Cundiff, PPG Industries national accounts project manager.

After consulting with these experts and using my personal experience with ladders as a residential carpenter, I compiled a list of 15 potential options. After additional research and comparisons, I narrowed my choices down to the eight you see here. I tested each ladder, except for the extension ladder; I relied on input from PPG to make the best selection.

During my testing, I took the time to carry, position, and assemble each ladder and utilize and interact with any accessories or features they had. I noted how easy — or difficult — each unit was to extend or manipulate and how much their weight and sturdiness affected how secure I felt while climbing.

If you're not able to secure your ladder correctly, you should either find a ladder that can or find a different way to access your workspace, like scaffolding.

Since extension ladders lack the built-in support that A-frame ladders have, you sometimes need to secure them for extra support. By securing the top and base, you can reduce the chances of the bottom sliding out or top sliding from side to side.

If your ladder lacks the necessary non-slip feet, you can tie it to an existing structure, or you can create your own by driving a stake into the ground. If you're on a wood deck, you can also nail a temporary cleat to the deck, which will provide a solid backstop to the feet of your ladder.

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety provides more advice for securing a ladder.

The best ladder for cleaning gutters is a model that is at least 4 feet above the step you're standing on, according to Ladders Direct. This allows you to safely reach the gutter without overstretching while still maintaining three points of contact. An extension ladder such as the Werner D6228-2 is a great choice.

The most important thing to remember is to make sure you maintain three points of contact when you're climbing or descending your ladder. This means that two feet and one hand or two hands and one foot are in contact with the steps and handrails. You should also make sure to face the ladder when climbing up or down.

The best ladder brand for you depends on what you're planning on using it for. For extension ladders, Werner and Louisville are known as the top of their class. Gorilla and Little Giant ladders lead the pack when it comes to multi-purpose ladders that can transform into a variety of styles.

You'll want to make sure your ladder has a work platform on which you can place or hang any painting supplies, like buckets, brushes, or roller trays. You should also make sure your ladder has non-marring feet that won't harm your interior flooring, in addition to providing a sturdy foundation.

The 4-to-1 rule makes this easy to figure out. For every 4 feet of height, your ladder should be 1 foot away from the support wall. So if your ladder is 12 feet high, the base should be positioned 3 feet from the wall. This will prevent your ladder from being placed too far out, which can cause it to slip or collapse, or too close, which makes it easier to accidentally fall backward.

The best type of ladder is one that allows you to safely and effectively perform the task you need it for. Extension ladders are ideal for reaching tall heights, although they're less useful for tasks closer to the ground, and can be a challenge to store. Stepladders are best for general use around the house, are stable enough for anyone to use safely, and provide a top cap for keeping tools and accessories within easy reach. Telescoping ladders are the most convenient for storing and transport, although their rails need to be cleaned regularly to keep dust and debris from affecting their operation.

Duty ratings aside (any ladder you use should meet ANSI standards), a fiberglass ladder is the safest ladder to use. Since fiberglass is non-conductive, it's safe to use around any kind of electrical wiring or power lines. Regardless of the ladder you use, always follow the basic rules of ladder safety, outlined here by the American Ladder Institute.

For interior tasks, like painting or hanging wallpaper, a 6 foot ladder is the best height for typical home use. This length is portable enough to carry and store without much trouble, and tall enough to provide users a 10-foot reach.

If you plan on working on the exterior of your home, go with a 24-foot extension ladder. Even when standing four rungs from the top step–as is mandatory for safety–users can still access the outside of a two-story home safely.

Ladders must be stored properly to prevent damage that could compromise their stability and safety during later use. OSHA recommends storing your ladder out of direct sunlight, explaining, "The UV rays from the sunlight actually breaks down the fibers in plastic reinforced ladders, and can cause plastic caps and shelves used on many metal ladders to become brittle over time." These UV rays can also fade important instructional stickers and labels. OSHA also cautions against storing ladders where they're exposed to excessive heat, like near a boiler or furnace, which can warp or melt certain materials.

To protect injury to others, don't store your ladder near doorways, blind corners, or anywhere else they can be accidentally knocked over.

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