Protekt Model 34500 vs Protekt Model 34600 vs Protekt STS Compact 500: Which Sit to Stand Lift Should You Buy?

Choosing between the Protekt Model 34500, Model 34600, and STS Compact 500 sit-to-stand lifts depends on three critical factors: your space constraints, patient weight requirements, and budget.

The Compact 500 ($1,199) excels in tight spaces with its ultra-low 4.9" profile, the Standard 500 ($1,699) offers the best balance of features and reliability, while the Bariatric 600 ($1,899) provides heavy-duty 600-pound capacity with extra-wide support.

Each model serves distinct needs within Proactive Medical's proven sit-to-stand technology platform, but selecting the wrong one could mean compromising patient safety or overspending on unnecessary features.

Finding the right sit-to-stand lift for your patient care needs requires understanding their specific mobility level, space requirements, and how the equipment will function in your care environment. In this guide, we'll help you navigate the three main Protekt models to make the best choice for safe, efficient patient transfers.

Quick Comparison Overview

Feature	STS Compact 500	Standard 500	Bariatric 600
Model Number	34500-COM	34500	34600
Price	$1,199	$1,699	$1,899
Weight Capacity	500 lbs	500 lbs	600 lbs
Base Height	4.9"	4.7"	4.7"
Base Length	33.5"	41.3"	41.3"
Footplate Width	13.9"	13.8"	18.5"
Unit Weight	111 lbs	119 lbs	132 lbs
Turning Diameter	45" (open)	54.2" (open)	54.2" (open)
Stock Level	Only 3 left!	Only 5 left!	Only 4 left!

All three models ship next day and qualify for insurance coverage under HCPCS code E0637. The price range of $700 between the most affordable and premium model reflects significant differences in capacity, build quality, and intended use environments.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Sit-to-Stand Lift

When selecting a sit-to-stand patient lift, certain features are particularly important for safety, comfort, and ease of use.

Weight Capacity vs Patient Safety

The 100-pound capacity difference between standard (500 lbs) and bariatric (600 lbs) models represents more than just numbers. This 20% increase accommodates not only heavier patients but also provides crucial safety margins. Healthcare facilities often underestimate the importance of capacity buffers—the additional 100 pounds accounts for equipment weight, sling materials, and safety factors that prevent overload situations.

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Space Requirements and Maneuverability

The Compact 500's reduced dimensions create significant practical advantages. The 8-inch shorter base length (33.5" vs 41.3") and 9-inch smaller turning radius (45" vs 54.2") enable access to previously unreachable transfer locations. This translates to improved patient care options and reduced need for room rearrangement.

Battery Performance and Reliability

All models share the advanced 24-volt battery system that provides twice the runtime of competing brands. This consistency means facilities can standardize on charging protocols and spare battery inventory regardless of model selection. The performance-class actuators ensure consistent lift speeds even as battery charge decreases.

Best Sit-to-Stand Lifts by Specific Patient Needs

Different patients have unique requirements based on their mobility levels, weight, and care environments.

Best for Space Constraints: Protekt STS Compact 500

This is for you if space is limited and you need a compact design that fits under low furniture with a 4.9" base height.

The STS Compact 500 revolutionizes sit-to-stand transfers in space-constrained environments. Its ultra-low 4.9" base height makes it the only model capable of sliding under most standard furniture and low-profile chairs, solving the common problem of inaccessible patient positioning.

Key Specifications:

• Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
• Base Dimensions: 33.5" length × 24.9" closed width
• Knee Pad Range: 21", 20", or 19" height settings
• Turning Radius: 45" opened (most compact in class)
• Unit Weight: 111 pounds (lightest model)

Space-Saving Advantages: The compact design isn't just about size—it's about accessibility. The shortened base length combined with the tight turning radius makes navigation through doorways and around furniture significantly easier. Healthcare workers consistently report improved maneuverability in cramped home environments and facility rooms.

Performance Features: Despite its compact size, the STS Compact 500 maintains the same 24-volt battery system as larger models, providing 20+ full lift cycles per charge. The performance-class actuator includes emergency quick release functionality, ensuring patient safety during power outages.

Best Use Cases:

• Home healthcare environments with limited space
• Assisted living facilities with standard room layouts
• Patients who primarily transfer from low furniture
• Caregivers prioritizing easy transport and storage
  

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Best Overall Value: Protekt 500 Standard

This is for you if you need a reliable, full-featured sit to stand lift with excellent battery life and fast transfer speeds.

The Standard 500 represents the gold standard in sit-to-stand technology, offering the optimal balance of features, reliability, and performance.

This model consistently receives top ratings from healthcare professionals for its robust construction and dependable operation across diverse care environments.

Key Specifications:

• Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
• Base Dimensions: 41.3" length × 26.4" closed width
• Knee Pad Range: 20.2" to 23.7" height adjustment
• Footplate: 13.8" × 14.5" platform
• Unit Weight: 119 pounds

Advanced Performance Features: The Standard 500 incorporates higher weight capacity than most competing sit-to-stand lifts while maintaining smooth operation through its 3" dual front casters. The fast-speed lift motor reduces transfer time, improving patient comfort and caregiver efficiency. Advanced electronics with auxiliary up/down lift controls provide precise positioning control.

Superior Battery Technology: The 24-volt battery system lasts twice as long as competing brands, minimizing downtime between charges. This translates to fewer interruptions in care routines and reduced maintenance overhead. Built-in battery gauge and overload warnings provide real-time status monitoring.

Build Quality Advantages: Full parts breakdowns and modular design ensure long-term serviceability. The single-piece molded kneepad with handlebar offers enhanced durability. Height and depth adjustable positioning accommodates a wider range of patient sizes and transfer scenarios.

Optimal Applications:

• Healthcare facilities requiring reliable daily operation
• Home environments with standard space availability
• Patients weighing up to 500 pounds requiring regular transfers
• Caregivers prioritizing proven performance and longevity

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Best for Heavy-Duty Use: Protekt 600 Bariatric

This is for you if you require heavy-duty bariatric capacity with extra-wide adjustable kneepads for larger patients.

The Bariatric 600 addresses the specific challenges of transferring larger patients, incorporating enhanced structural design and specialized features that standard models cannot safely accommodate. This heavy-duty platform ensures both patient dignity and caregiver safety during transfers.

Key Specifications:

• Weight Capacity: 600 pounds (20% increase over standard)
• Base Dimensions: 41.3" length × 26.4" closed width
• Enhanced Footplate: 18.5" × 16.6" (34% larger surface area)
• Unit Weight: 132 pounds (reinforced construction)
• Knee Pad Range: 20.2" to 23.7" with extra-wide design

Bariatric-Specific Enhancements: The extra-wide adjustable kneepads represent a critical safety improvement for larger patients. Standard 13.8" kneepads can create pressure points and instability, while the 18.5" width distributes weight more evenly and provides enhanced comfort. The heavy-duty boom design specifically accommodates the additional stress of 600-pound transfers.

Advanced Safety Systems: Enhanced stability features include reinforced actuator mounting and upgraded emergency quick release mechanisms. The wider footplate provides improved balance during transfers, reducing the risk of patient falls or equipment instability. Advanced electronics monitor load distribution and provide overload warnings specific to bariatric use.

Performance Under Load: Despite the increased capacity, the Bariatric 600 maintains the same fast-speed lift motor and 24-volt battery system. The enhanced structural design doesn't compromise transfer speed or battery life, ensuring efficient operation even at maximum capacity.

Specialized Applications:

• Bariatric care facilities and specialized units
• Home healthcare for patients exceeding 500 pounds
• Facilities requiring frequent heavy-duty transfers
• Environments prioritizing maximum safety margins

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Head-to-Head Comparison Analysis

Price vs Value Analysis

Model	Price	Value Proposition
STS Compact 500	$1,199	Best budget option with space-saving design
Standard 500	$1,699	Optimal balance of features and reliability
Bariatric 600	$1,899	Premium for specialized bariatric features

The $500 difference between Compact ($1,199) and Standard ($1,699) models primarily reflects construction robustness and feature completeness. The Standard model's enhanced build quality, larger footplate, and improved maneuverability justify the premium for facilities requiring daily use. The additional $200 for Bariatric ($1,899) provides substantial value considering the specialized engineering and safety enhancements required for 600-pound capacity.

Durability & Build Quality

All three models share core reliability features including 24-volt battery systems, emergency quick release, and modular construction. However, the Bariatric 600's reinforced frame and enhanced components provide superior longevity under heavy-duty use. The Standard 500 offers optimal durability for typical use patterns, while the Compact 500 prioritizes space efficiency over maximum robustness.

Decision Framework: Which Should You Choose?

Choose STS Compact 500 If:

• Space is your primary constraint with low furniture or tight rooms
• Budget considerations make the $1,199 price point attractive
• Home use where maximum portability matters
• Patient weight stays comfortably under 450 pounds
• Transfer frequency is moderate rather than intensive

Choose Standard 500 If:

• Balanced needs require proven reliability without space constraints
• Facility use demands dependable daily operation
• Standard patient population typically ranges 300-500 pounds
• Long-term value justifies the moderate price increase
• Room dimensions accommodate the standard 41.3" base length

Choose Bariatric 600 If:

• Patient weight approaches or exceeds 500 pounds
• Heavy-duty requirements necessitate maximum safety margins
• Frequent transfers demand robust construction
• Specialized care focuses on bariatric patient populations
• Safety protocols prioritize maximum equipment capacity

Common Features Across All Models

Shared Technology Platform

All three Protekt sit-to-stand models utilize identical core technologies ensuring consistent performance and simplified maintenance. The 24-volt battery system provides superior runtime and faster charging compared to 12-volt alternatives. Emergency quick release mechanisms function identically across models, standardizing safety protocols.

Safety Standards Compliance

Each model meets HCPCS E0637 requirements for insurance coverage, ensuring consistent reimbursement eligibility. Advanced electronics with auxiliary up/down controls provide precise positioning regardless of model selection. Emergency stop buttons and overload warnings function uniformly across the product line.

Warranty Protection

Industry-leading warranty coverage includes 2 years electronics, 3 years frame, and 1 year battery protection. The modular design philosophy ensures easy parts replacement and long-term serviceability. Authorized dealer networks provide consistent service quality nationwide.

Universal Sling Compatibility

All models accommodate the complete Proactive Medical sling collection. The 4-sling hook system provides multiple positioning options for optimal patient comfort and safety across standard, bariatric, and specialty sling configurations.

Customer Considerations & FAQs

Space Measurement Guidelines

Before selection, measure your narrowest doorway, tightest turn radius, and lowest furniture clearance. The Compact 500's 4.9" height specifically addresses low-clearance situations, while standard models require 4.7" minimum clearance.

Weight Assessment Protocols

Calculate patient weight plus clothing, medical devices, and sling materials. Add a 50-pound safety margin to determine required capacity. Patients approaching weight limits benefit from the next capacity tier for safety and equipment longevity.

Insurance Coverage Optimization

All models qualify under HCPCS E0637, but documentation requirements vary by provider. Consult with healthcare professionals to ensure proper medical necessity documentation for insurance approval.

Maintenance Simplification

Identical battery systems, charging protocols, and basic maintenance procedures across all models simplify staff training and spare parts inventory. Monthly lubrication points and inspection procedures remain consistent regardless of model selection.

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Our Top Recommendation for Sit-to-Stand Lifts

Top Pick by Category:

• Best Value: STS Compact 500 for space-constrained environments
• Best Overall: Standard 500 for balanced performance and reliability
• Best Heavy-Duty: Bariatric 600 for specialized high-capacity needs

The Protekt Standard 500 emerges as the optimal choice for most healthcare environments, providing proven reliability, comprehensive features, and excellent long-term value at $1,699. However, specific space constraints or patient requirements may justify the Compact 500's space-saving design or the Bariatric 600's enhanced capacity.

For maximum space efficiency, particularly for home environments with low furniture, the STS Compact 500 with its ultra-low 4.9" minimum height is unmatched for accessibility.

By carefully assessing your patient's specific needs, mobility level, and care environment, you can select the right sit-to-stand lift to enhance their comfort, safety, and quality of life during transfers.

Why Choose MedShopDirect

As a top distributor for Proactive Medical Products, MedShopDirect offers expert guidance in selecting the right Protekt sit-to-stand lift for your specific requirements. Our team understands the critical differences between models and can help determine whether you need compact design, standard capacity, or heavy-duty bariatric features for your patient care environment.

Ready to make your decision? Contact our mobility equipment specialists for personalized recommendations based on your specific space, budget, and patient requirements. All models ship next day and include comprehensive warranty protection.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will insurance cover a sit-to-stand lift for my patient?

All Protekt models qualify under HCPCS E0637 when prescribed by a doctor as medically necessary. Coverage varies by provider, but most insurance plans cover 80% of approved amounts.

How do I know which weight capacity to choose?

Calculate patient weight plus clothing and medical devices, then add a 50-pound safety margin. Patients approaching 450 pounds should consider the 600-pound capacity model for safety.

What's the difference between the Compact and Standard models?

The Compact 500 has an ultra-low 4.9" base height and shorter 33.5" length for tight spaces, while the Standard 500 offers enhanced durability and a larger footplate for regular facility use.

Can these lifts be used for floor transfers?

No, sit-to-stand lifts are designed for patients who can bear some weight. For floor transfers or patients who cannot support themselves, you need full-body electric patient lifts.

How long does the battery last between charges?

All Protekt models provide 20+ full lift cycles per charge with their 24-volt battery system, which lasts twice as long as competing brands.

Are the lifts difficult to operate?

All models feature intuitive hand controls and LCD displays. While designed for single caregiver operation, proper training on safe transfer techniques is recommended.

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