LM800N vs LG800 Vertical Drum Lifters: Which One Should You Choose?

When handling and dispensing steel drums in warehouses, workshops, and industrial plants, choosing the right drum lifter can make a big difference in safety, efficiency, and operator convenience.

The LM800N and LG800 Vertical Drum Lifters are both designed for lifting and rotating 30/55 gallon closed-head steel drums. At first glance, these two models appear very similar. They share the same lifting capacity and are both suitable for use with an overhead hoist or crane. However, the key difference lies in how the drum is tilted and controlled during pouring.

In this article, we will compare the LM800N and LG800 in detail to help you decide which model is the best fit for your application.

What Do LM800N and LG800 Have in Common?

Both the LM800N and LG800 are designed as vertical drum lifters and drum dispensers. They allow a single operator to lift, transport, rotate, and pour drum contents safely and efficiently.

Here are the main features they share:

• Suitable for 30/55 gallon closed-head steel drums
• Maximum weight capacity: 360 kg (800 lb)
• Designed for use with an overhead hoist or crane
• Allow 360° drum rotation in either direction
• Help reduce manual effort, save time, and improve productivity
• Optional special web sling available

Because of these shared features, both models are reliable solutions for vertical drum handling. The main question is not whether they can do the job, but which one offers the better operating method for your working environment.

The Main Difference: Manual Tilting vs Remote Chain Control

The biggest difference between the two models is the drum tilting control system.

LM800N: Manual Drum Tilting

The LM800N Vertical Drum Lifter is designed with a manual tilting mechanism. It features a positive tilt lock on the drum saddle to hold the drum upright during transportation. When the operator releases the lock, the drum can be manually tilted to control pouring.

The drum can be rotated 360° in either direction, and it can also be locked in a horizontal position.

This design makes the LM800N a practical and economical choice for standard drum lifting and dispensing tasks where the operator can directly access the drum.

LG800: Geared Chain Controlled Remote Pouring

The LG800 Vertical Drum Lifter is designed for remote pouring operations. Instead of manually tilting the drum, the operator controls the flip of the drum by pulling a geared chain.

This system offers several advantages:

• Lower effort required during operation
• Easier control at different lifting heights
• Safer pouring from a distance
• More precise drum positioning during dispensing

The LG800 also allows the drum to rotate 360° in either direction, and the drum can be locked at any angle during transportation or dispensing. Its 10-ft pull chain makes it especially useful for applications where the drum is lifted above the operator’s reach.

In simple terms, the LG800 is a more advanced solution for customers who need better control, safer operation, and easier pouring at height.

Which Model Is Easier to Operate?

If ease of operation is a key concern, the LG800 drum dispenser has a clear advantage.

Because it uses a geared chain control system, the operator does not need to directly handle the drum body during pouring. This is especially useful when the drum is positioned high above the ground or when the contents need to be dispensed carefully.

The LM800N drum dispenser, on the other hand, is straightforward and simple to use, but it relies more on direct manual control. For lower-level applications or less frequent pouring tasks, this may be perfectly acceptable. However, for repeated operations or more demanding work environments, remote control can significantly improve productivity and operator comfort.

Which Model Is Better for High-Level Pouring?

For high-position drum pouring, the LG800 is the better choice.

Its remote chain operation allows the user to control drum rotation without needing to reach the drum directly. This makes high-level dispensing easier, safer, and more efficient.

The LM800N can still be used for drum dispensing, but it is more suitable for applications where the operator can more easily access and manually control the drum.

If your work involves lifting drums above shoulder height or dispensing into equipment, tanks, or processing lines, the LG800 will usually be the more practical option.

Safety and Control Comparison

Both models are designed to improve drum handling safety compared with manual handling methods, but the level of control differs.

The LM800N drum lifter includes a positive tilt lock that keeps the drum upright during transportation. This provides reliable support for basic handling and dispensing.

The LG800 drum lifter, however, offers more flexible control during pouring because it can be locked at any angle and operated remotely. This reduces the need for the operator to stay close to the suspended drum and helps improve safety in more complex applications.

For customers who place a high priority on operator safety, precision pouring, and controlled drum positioning, the LG800 offers clear benefits.

Weight Difference Between LM800N and LG800

Another important difference is the net weight of the equipment:

• LM800N: 20 kg (44 lb)
• LG800: 38 kg (84 lb)

The LM800N is lighter, which may be attractive for users who prefer a simpler and more compact unit.

The LG800 is heavier because it includes the additional geared chain control mechanism. This added weight reflects its enhanced functionality and more advanced control system.

LM800N vs LG800: Quick Comparison Table

When Should You Choose the LM800N?

The LM800N is a good choice if you need:

• A simple and economical drum lifting solution
• Manual drum tilting for standard dispensing tasks
• A lighter unit that is easy to handle
• A practical solution for lower-height operations

It is ideal for users who want dependable drum lifting and pouring performance without needing remote control features.

When Should You Choose the LG800?

The LG800 is the better choice if you need:

• Remote pouring control
• Easier drum rotation at height
• More precise pouring adjustment
• Improved operator safety during dispensing
• A solution for more frequent or more demanding drum handling tasks

For industrial users working with elevated dispensing points or looking for a more convenient operating method, the LG800 provides greater flexibility and control.

Final Thoughts

Both the LM800N and LG800 Vertical Drum Lifters are effective solutions for handling and dispensing steel drums. They share the same lifting capacity and are both designed to improve efficiency and reduce manual labor.

The real difference comes down to how the drum is controlled during pouring.

If you are looking for a lighter, simpler, and more economical option for standard drum handling, the LM800N is an excellent choice. If you need remote chain-controlled pouring, easier operation at height, and enhanced safety, the LG800 is the better solution.

By understanding your working height, pouring frequency, and operator requirements, you can choose the model that best fits your application.

If you would like to learn more about these models, feel free to explore the LM800N and LG800 product pages or contact us for professional selection advice.