Protekt Model 33500 vs Protekt Model 33600 vs Protekt Take-A-Long: Which Electric Patient Lift is Right for You?

Choosing between the Protekt Model 33500, Model 33600, and Take-A-Long electric patient lifts depends on your specific capacity needs, space requirements, and usage environment.

The Model 33500 ($1,299) offers the best overall value with 500-pound capacity and 6-point spreader bar for comprehensive facility use, while the Take-A-Long ($995) excels as a portable folding design that fits in car trunks for travel and homes with storage limitations.

The Model 33600 Bariatric ($1,499) provides heavy-duty 600-pound capacity with enhanced stability for larger patients requiring full-body transfer assistance. All three models feature the advanced 24-volt battery system, emergency lowering mechanisms, and floor lifting capability (standard models) that make Protekt the leading choice for safe patient transfers.

Selecting the right electric patient lift requires understanding the differences between capacity, portability, and advanced features across the Protekt model range. This comprehensive comparison helps you choose the ideal full-body lifting solution for patients who cannot bear weight during transfers.

Electric Patient Lift Comparison: Which Protekt Model is Right for You?

Protekt Take-A-Long: Best Portable Electric Patient Lift

The Protekt Take-A-Long represents a breakthrough in portable electric patient lifts, offering full-body transfer capability in a foldable design that revolutionizes mobility for traveling patients and space-constrained homes.

This is for you if you need a portable folding electric patient lift that fits in car trunks for travel or homes with limited storage space → View Product

Key Portable Features:

• 400-pound weight capacity for most patient transfers
• Foldable design fits in automobile trunks
• 87.3 pounds lightweight for easy transport
• Tool-free assembly and disassembly
• 2-point spreader bar for essential lifting functions

Portability Advantages: The Take-A-Long's compact footprint makes it ideal for home use where storage space is limited. The foldable frame allows easy storage in closets or under beds when not in use, while maintaining full electric patient lift functionality.

Travel-Specific Benefits:

• Automobile trunk compatibility for family trips
• Quick setup in temporary locations
• Lightweight construction for caregiver handling
• Standard charging works in any location
• Emergency features function away from home

Performance Specifications:

• Lifting range: 18.5" to 67.2" height adjustment
• Base dimensions: 41.0" length, 25.6" closed width
• Turning diameter: 55.0" opened, 51.0" closed
• Battery system: High-capacity with overload warnings
• Emergency stop and low battery alerts

Best for these situations:

• Families who travel frequently with mobility-impaired patients
• Homes with severe storage space limitations
• Temporary care situations requiring mobility
• Patients who split time between multiple locations

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Protekt Model 33500: Best Overall Electric Patient Lift Value

The Protekt Model 33500 stands as the gold standard electric patient lift, offering comprehensive features, proven reliability, and exceptional performance that healthcare professionals trust for daily patient transfers.

This is for you if you need a full-featured electric patient lift with 6-point spreader bar and floor lifting capability for comprehensive care facilities → View Product

Advanced Standard Features:

• 500-pound weight capacity handles most patient transfers
• 6-point spreader bar provides multiple sling attachment options
• Floor lifting capability for emergency and specialized transfers
• 109 pounds manageable weight for positioning
• 47.3" base length with 26.4" closed width

Professional-Grade Performance: The Model 33500 incorporates advanced safety features including manual emergency lowering and clip-free sling hookups that improve safety and reduce transfer time. The modular design ensures easy maintenance and long-term reliability.

Technical Specifications:

• Lifting range: 28.3" to 72.0" comprehensive height adjustment
• Base opening: 26.4" closed to 39.3" opened width
• Mast height: 51.3" accommodates various transfer scenarios
• Turning diameter: 63.4" opened, 58.4" closed
• Battery system: 24-volt with extended operational time

Advanced Electronics:

• LCD display with battery status and overload warnings
• Auxiliary up/down controls for precise positioning
• Emergency stop button for immediate operation halt
• Performance-class actuator with smooth operation
• Manual emergency lowering functions without power

Optimal applications:

• Healthcare facilities requiring daily patient transfers
• Home care situations with standard space availability
• Patients requiring regular bed-to-chair transfers
• Care environments prioritizing safety and reliability

Protekt Model 33600: Best Heavy-Duty Electric Patient Lift

The Protekt Model 33600 Bariatric addresses the specific challenges of heavy-duty patient transfers, incorporating enhanced structural design and specialized features that standard lifts cannot safely accommodate.

This is for you if you require heavy-duty bariatric patient lifting with 600 lb capacity and enhanced stability for larger patients → View Product

Heavy-Duty Specifications:

• 600-pound weight capacity (20% increase over standard)
• Enhanced structural design for maximum stability
• 126.5 pounds reinforced construction
• 47.3" base length with 26.4" closed width
• 6-point spreader bar with clip-free sling hookups

Bariatric-Specific Enhancements: The Model 33600 features enhanced stability systems and reinforced actuator mounting specifically designed for the additional stresses of bariatric patient transfers. The wider base opening (39.3") provides improved stability during transfers.

Advanced Safety Systems:

• Enhanced emergency lowering designed for heavier loads
• Reinforced boom construction handles maximum capacity
• Advanced electronics with overload monitoring
• Larger base footprint for improved stability
• Professional-grade actuator maintains smooth operation under load

Performance Under Maximum Load: Despite the increased capacity, the Model 33600 maintains the same fast operation and battery life as standard models. The enhanced design doesn't compromise transfer speed or efficiency.

Technical Specifications:

• Lifting range: 21.5" to 68.6" accommodates low beds
• Base opening: 26.4" closed to 39.3" opened
• Mast height: 51.3" standard professional height
• Turning diameter: 63.4" opened, 58.4" closed
• Floor lifting capability for emergency situations

Specialized applications:

• Bariatric care facilities and specialized units
• Healthcare settings with larger patient populations
• Facilities requiring maximum safety margins
• Situations where enhanced stability is crucial

Electric Patient Lift Feature Comparison Analysis

Capacity and Safety Comparison

Feature	Take-A-Long	Model 33500	Model 33600
Weight Capacity	400 lbs	500 lbs	600 lbs
Spreader Bar	2-point	6-point	6-point
Floor Lifting	No	Yes	Yes
Portability	Foldable	Standard	Standard
Best Use	Travel/Home	General Care	Bariatric Care

Battery and Electronics Comparison

Universal 24-Volt System: All three Protekt electric patient lifts feature the advanced 24-volt battery system that provides:

• 20+ full lifting cycles per charge under full load
• Twice the battery life of competing brands
• Fast charging capability for minimal downtime
• Low battery warnings prevent mid-transfer power loss

Electronic Features by Model:

Take-A-Long Electronics:

• Built-in battery gauge for charge monitoring
• Low battery warning alarm with visual alerts
• Emergency stop button for immediate halt
• Overload warning system prevents unsafe operation

Model 33500 Advanced Electronics:

• LCD display panel with comprehensive status information
• Auxiliary up/down controls for precise positioning
• Advanced overload monitoring with automatic shutoff
• Performance-class actuator with smooth operation

Model 33600 Professional Electronics:

• Enhanced LCD display with bariatric-specific monitoring
• Advanced electronics with load distribution analysis
• Professional actuator designed for heavy-duty operation
• Comprehensive safety monitoring for maximum-capacity use

Electric Patient Lift Space and Setup Requirements

Home and Facility Space Planning

Take-A-Long Space Advantages:

• Compact storage when folded for home use
• 41.0" operational length fits standard rooms
• Tool-free assembly enables quick setup
• Automobile trunk compatibility for transport

Standard Models Space Requirements:

• 47.3" base length requires adequate room dimensions
• 39.3" maximum width when base is opened
• Standard ceiling height accommodation
• Professional maneuvering space for safe operation

Room Preparation for Electric Patient Lifts:

• Minimum 3-foot clearance on all sides for caregiver access
• Level flooring essential for safe operation
• Electrical access for charging station setup
• Storage space for slings and accessories

Delivery and Professional Setup

Delivery Considerations: All Protekt electric patient lifts ship next day, but setup requirements vary:

Take-A-Long Setup:

• Tool-free assembly most components
• Lightweight handling at 87.3 pounds
• Quick folding for storage after delivery
• Minimal setup space required

Standard Models Professional Setup:

• Modular assembly with provided tools
• Professional weight requires adequate handling
• Comprehensive testing before first use
• Training materials included for safe operation

Electric Patient Lift Sling Compatibility and Accessories

Universal Sling Compatibility

All Protekt electric patient lifts work with the complete Proactive Medical sling collection:

Full-Body Sling Options:

• Mesh slings for comfort and breathability
• Solid fabric slings for durability
• Commode slings with hygiene openings
• Divided leg slings for specialized positioning

Capacity-Specific Slings:

• Standard slings accommodate up to 600 pounds
• Bariatric slings designed for larger patients
• Pediatric options available for younger patients
• Specialty slings for specific medical conditions

Essential Accessories for Electric Patient Lifts

Standard Accessories:

• Battery charger with wall mounting option
• Hand pendant for caregiver control
• Emergency lowering tools for power outages
• Instruction manuals and training materials

Optional Enhancements:

• Digital scale (compatible with Models 33500 and 33600)
• Additional battery packs for extended use
• Charging cradle for convenient charging
• Sling storage systems for organization

Electric Patient Lift Price and Value Analysis

Cost-Benefit Analysis by Model

Take-A-Long Value Proposition ($995):

• Lowest initial cost in the Protekt line
• Portability premium for travel capability
• Space-saving design reduces storage costs
• Tool-free setup minimizes installation expenses

Model 33500 Best Overall Value ($1,299):

• Comprehensive features justify moderate price increase
• 6-point spreader bar provides versatility
• Floor lifting capability adds significant value
• Professional reliability ensures long-term cost-effectiveness

Model 33600 Premium Investment ($1,499):

• Enhanced capacity supports larger patient population
• Specialized construction ensures safety margins
• Professional-grade components provide longevity
• Bariatric capability eliminates need for multiple lifts

Long-Term Value Considerations

Warranty Protection:

• Electronics: 2 years comprehensive coverage
• Frame: 3 years structural warranty
• Battery: 1 year power system warranty
• Modular design enables cost-effective repairs

Operating Cost Advantages:

• 24-volt battery system reduces replacement frequency
• Modular construction simplifies maintenance
• Professional support minimizes downtime costs
• Universal sling compatibility reduces accessory costs

Insurance Coverage for Electric Patient Lifts

HCPCS E0635 Coverage Benefits

All Protekt electric patient lifts qualify under HCPCS code E0635 for full-body patient lifting:

Medicare Coverage:

• 80% coverage of approved amounts after deductible
• Medical necessity documentation required
• Approved supplier requirement for coverage
• Rental or purchase options available

Private Insurance Benefits:

• Coverage percentages typically 60-90% when approved
• Pre-authorization may be required
• Network restrictions may apply to suppliers
• Appeals process available for denied claims

Documentation Requirements for Coverage

Medical Necessity Criteria:

• Complete inability to bear weight during transfers
• Bed confinement without lifting assistance
• Home use requirement for coverage
• Physician prescription with detailed assessment

Coverage Optimization:

• Work with approved suppliers like MedShopDirect
• Comprehensive documentation submission
• Medical team coordination for approval
• Appeals assistance when needed

Choosing the Right Electric Patient Lift: Decision Framework

Choose Take-A-Long If:

• Travel requirements make portability essential
• Storage space is severely limited
• Patient weight stays consistently under 350 pounds
• Budget constraints require lowest initial cost
• Setup simplicity is a primary concern

Choose Model 33500 If:

• Balanced performance meets most transfer needs
• Floor lifting capability is required
• 6-point spreader bar versatility is important
• Standard facility use demands proven reliability
• Value optimization balances features and cost

Choose Model 33600 If:

• Patient weight approaches or exceeds 500 pounds
• Enhanced safety margins are required
• Bariatric patient population is primary focus
• Maximum stability during transfers is crucial
• Professional-grade performance is essential

Professional Consultation Benefits

MedShopDirect Expertise: As a top distributor for Proactive Medical Products, MedShopDirect offers expert guidance in selecting the right Protekt electric patient lift for your specific requirements. Our team understands the critical differences between models and can help determine capacity, portability, and feature needs.

Selection Support Services:

• Needs assessment for optimal model selection
• Insurance verification and coverage assistance
• Training coordination for safe operation
• Ongoing support for maintenance and service

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Frequently Asked Questions About Protekt Electric Patient Lifts

Which Protekt electric patient lift model is best overall?

The Protekt Model 33500 offers the best overall value at $1,299, providing comprehensive features including 6-point spreader bar, floor lifting capability, and 500-pound capacity that meets most patient transfer needs.

What's the main difference between the three Protekt models?

The Take-A-Long ($995) is portable and foldable with 400-lb capacity, the Model 33500 ($1,299) offers standard 500-lb capacity with full features, and the Model 33600 ($1,499) provides heavy-duty 600-lb bariatric capacity with enhanced stability.

Can the Take-A-Long lift patients from the floor?

No, the Take-A-Long is designed for bed-to-chair transfers only. For floor lifting capability, you need the Model 33500 or 33600 which both include this essential safety feature.

Are all Protekt electric patient lifts covered by insurance?

Yes, all models qualify under HCPCS code E0635 for insurance coverage when prescribed as medically necessary. Medicare typically covers 80% of approved amounts, while private insurance coverage varies by plan.

What's the difference between 2-point and 6-point spreader bars?

The Take-A-Long's 2-point spreader bar provides basic lifting functionality, while the 6-point spreader bars on Models 33500 and 33600 offer multiple sling attachment options for safer patient handling and wider range of transfers.

How long do the batteries last on Protekt electric patient lifts?

All models feature the 24-volt battery system providing 20+ full lifting cycles per charge under full load, lasting twice as long as competing brands with fast charging capability.

Can I travel with the standard Protekt models?

While possible, only the Take-A-Long is specifically designed for travel with its foldable design that fits in automobile trunks. The standard models are better suited for permanent installation.

What weight capacity do I need for my patient?

Choose based on patient weight plus a safety margin: Take-A-Long for patients under 350 lbs, Model 33500 for patients up to 450 lbs, and Model 33600 for patients up to 550 lbs with maximum safety margins.

Shop Electric Patient Lifts | Contact Patient Lift Specialists | View Sit-to-Stand Lifts

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Meta Description: Compare Protekt electric patient lifts: Model 33500 vs 33600 vs Take-A-Long. Find the right full-body patient lift with our detailed review of features, capacity (400-600 lbs), portability, and pricing ($995-$1,499). Expert guidance for safe patient transfers.