Elevator

For other uses, see Elevator (disambiguation) and Lift (disambiguation).

Not to be confused with Elevation or Escalator.

Outside of a typical elevator, shown in an office building in Portland, Oregon

This elevator to the Alexanderplatz U-Bahn station in Berlin is built with glass walls and doors, exposing the inner workings.

An elevator (North American English, Philippine English) or lift (Commonwealth English except Canada) is a machine that vertically transports people or freight between levels. They are typically powered by electric motors that drive traction cables and counterweight systems such as a hoist, although some pump hydraulic fluid to raise a cylindrical piston like a jack.

Elevators are used in agriculture and manufacturing to lift materials. There are various types, like chain and bucket elevators, grain augers, and hay elevators. Modern buildings often have elevators to ensure accessibility, especially where ramps are not feasible. High-speed elevators are common in skyscrapers. Some elevators can even move horizontally. Smart elevators enable multi-elevator coordination, enhancing the riding experience while reducing costs.