Roped hydraulic lift systems typically have 2-3 cables that attach to the elevator car and run through a sheave that is on top of the hydraulic cylinder. This type of drive system eliminates the need of costly ground drilling so the elevator hydraulic cylinder is above ground rather in-ground, decreasing the risk of corrosion to the cylinder while speeding up the installation process. Roped hydraulic systems preserve the environment by ensuring oil is not leaked into the ground. These elevators can travel up to 6 floors and run at a speed of 30 feet per minute up to 100 feet per minute with a weight capacity of 750 pounds or more depending on the application.

Direct hydraulic systems are typically installed in a low-rise situation, meaning they can travel up to 4 floors. Direct hydraulic elevators often require a hole to be drilled into the ground below the elevator to accommodate the need for the length of the cylinder. The elevator lift cylinder sits inside a sleeve that has been placed within the drilled hole. The cylinder is attached directly to the elevator car. When the hydraulic pump is activated, it pumps oil into the cylinder, building pressure to allow the car to move in the upward direction. To descend, the hydraulic valve opens, then gravity allows the oil to return back into the hydraulic oil reservoir releasing the pressure that was holding the elevator in place. The direct hydraulic drive has a weight capacity of 750 pounds or more, depending on the application.

Traction systems are usually found in high-rise buildings and even in homes. Traction drives are a motor and gearbox that is installed above the elevator with cables or chains that attach to the car and to counter-weights. The weight of the car and the counter-weights on each end of the cable or chains creates tension on the overhead sheave or sprocket thus the name, traction. Essentially, working like a "see-saw". Traction elevators run at a much greater speed and allow for higher travel than a hydraulic elevator. Traction elevators require a machine room on the rooftop or in an attic often needing a larger space for the equipment than a hydraulic elevator. Traction elevators have a weight capacity of 750 pounds or more depending on the application.