Gas Lift vs Manual Ottoman Beds (+ Electric Options)

Almost all modern ottoman beds use gas-lift struts, but manual prop and electric options do exist. Here's how they compare.

Gas-lift mechanism

The standard choice on the overwhelming majority of ottoman beds. Dual gas struts do most of the lifting work, hold the base open safely, and lower it in a smooth, controlled motion. Reliable, low-maintenance, and easy to service by swapping struts when needed.

Manual prop mechanisms

Older or budget designs sometimes use a manual prop rod instead of gas struts — you lift the base fully by hand and a rod holds it open. These require more physical effort and carry more risk if the prop isn't seated properly.

Electric ottoman beds

A small number of premium frames offer an electric lift, opening the base at the touch of a button. This suits anyone with reduced mobility or strength, though it adds cost and a component that itself requires maintenance.

Which should you choose?

For the vast majority of buyers, a well-rated gas-lift mechanism offers the best balance of ease, reliability and price. Electric is worth the extra cost if lifting any weight is genuinely difficult for you; manual prop designs are generally best avoided in favour of gas lift.

Related reading

See how ottoman beds work and our strut ratings guide. Shop our ottoman storage beds.