LIFTX vs. LIFT5: The Ultimate eFoil Showdown

If you’re looking at the LIFT5 and LIFTX, wondering which one’s the move, you’re not alone. This is Lift Foils’ biggest release yet, and both models have some serious upgrades. But here’s the thing—while they might look similar at a glance, they serve two very different purposes.

The LIFT5 is the evolution of their top-tier eFoil. It’s about pure performance—longer ride times, LCS (Lift Connect System) modular design, and a quiet direct-drive motor that makes you feel like you’re floating on air. This is the eFoil for riders who want the best, period.

Then there’s the LIFTX, which is a different beast entirely. It’s not just an eFoil—it’s a hybrid. Think of it like the lovechild of an eFoil and a high-performance surf foil. Lighter, more maneuverable, and designed for those who want the best of both worlds—power when you need it, glide when you don’t.

So, which one fits your riding style? That’s what we’re here to figure out. Let’s break it down.

What’s New in 2025? LIFT5 & LIFTX Evolution

When you hear "new model release," it’s easy to assume it’s just a minor spec bump—a slightly better battery, a new colorway, maybe some small tweaks. But with the LIFT5 and LIFTX, Lift Foils actually changed the game. These aren't just upgrades; they're a complete evolution of what eFoiling can be.

⏳ Faster Setup: The Lift Connect System (LCS)

Ever lost precious ride time dealing with finicky screws, mast bolts, or wing adjustments? Lift saw the frustration and eliminated it.
The LCS system means no tools, no headache—just a snap-in, snap-out design that gets you from the beach to the water in under a minute.
For travelers and instructors, this is a game-changer—quick swaps between wings and mast sizes let you adjust for conditions on the fly.

⚡ Next-Gen Batteries: Ride Longer, Charge Smarter

Battery life is the #1 question riders ask before buying an eFoil, and Lift went all in with their Gen5 and LIFTX battery lineup.

• LIFT5 Battery: Full-power, long-range (avg. 90 minutes)

• LIFTX Battery: Compact, agile, built for transitions (avg. 45 minutes)

• Safety & Durability: Double-walled enclosure + advanced fault detection to prevent overheating or water damage.

• One-Hand Installation: Clicks into place instantly, no cables or fiddling required.

This isn't just about longer ride time—it’s about trust. No one wants to be foiling miles offshore and wondering if their battery is going to leave them stranded. Lift made sure you don’t have to.

🔇 The Quietest, Smoothest Ride Ever

Let’s be real—nothing ruins the flow state of foiling faster than a loud, mechanical gearbox whine. Lift’s direct-drive motor eliminates the noise. No gearbox, no friction, just pure glide.
For the LIFTX, the new folding prop system takes this even further. Catch a wave, kill the motor, fold the prop, and surf naturally. It’s the closest thing to a seamless prone/surf hybrid experience.

🦅 The Most Adaptable Wing System Yet

Ever wish you could custom-tune your ride depending on the conditions?
The new LCS wings & masts allow you to do just that. Swap high-lift wings for stability or high-aspect wings for pure speed—without tools or delay.

If you ride in varying water conditions, this is a huge step up. One board, multiple styles of riding.

LIFTX vs. LIFT5: Key Differences

Choosing between the LIFTX and LIFT5 comes down to understanding their distinct features and how they cater to different eFoiling experiences. Here's a breakdown to guide your decision:

1. Ride Style and Purpose

• LIFT5: Designed for pure eFoil performance, the LIFT5 offers a longer ride time and a quiet direct-drive motor, making it ideal for riders seeking a high-performance eFoiling experience.

• LIFTX: As a hybrid model, the LIFTX combines elements of eFoiling and surf foiling. It's lighter and more maneuverable, catering to those who desire a versatile ride that offers both powered assistance and the ability to ride waves naturally.

2. Construction and Design

• LIFT5: Features a full carbon fiber construction, providing a lightweight and responsive ride. The Lift Connect System (LCS) allows for tool-free assembly, enhancing convenience.

• LIFTX: Also utilizes carbon fiber, but with a focus on reducing weight to enhance maneuverability. The design facilitates quick transitions between powered and unpowered modes, appealing to riders who enjoy both eFoiling and traditional surf foiling.

3. Battery and Ride Time

• LIFT5: Equipped with the Gen5 Full Range battery, it offers an average ride time of up to 90 minutes, making it suitable for extended sessions.

• LIFTX: Comes with a compact battery, providing an average ride time of up to 45 minutes. This setup is optimized for shorter, more dynamic sessions, especially when alternating between powered and unpowered riding.

4. Propulsion System

• LIFT5: Utilizes a direct-drive motor known for its quiet operation and smooth power delivery, enhancing the overall eFoiling experience.

• LIFTX: Features a folding propeller system that allows riders to switch off the motor and ride waves naturally. This design reduces drag during unpowered sessions, providing a more authentic surf foiling experience.

5. Target Audience

• LIFT5: Ideal for riders who prioritize extended ride times, high-speed performance, and a dedicated eFoiling experience.

• LIFTX: Suited for those who seek a versatile eFoil that offers the flexibility to enjoy both powered cruising and traditional wave riding.

 

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By understanding these differences, you can choose the eFoil that best matches your riding style and preferences. Whether you opt for the performance-driven LIFT5 or the LIFTX, both models offer unique features designed to improve your time on the water.

LIFT5 – The Ultimate eFoil Experience

For riders who want full-throttle, long-range, pure eFoil performance.

🔹 How It Rides

• Smooth, controlled, and effortless—Lift’s direct-drive motor is the quietest in the game, making for an ultra-clean glide.

• Extended range: Up to 90 minutes of ride time with the Gen5 Full Range battery, making it ideal for long-distance cruising.

• Easy setup: Lift Connect System (LCS) means tool-free assembly—snap in the mast, wings, and propeller, and you're riding in under a minute.

🏆 Who It’s For

✅ Pure eFoilers—If your main goal is to fly over water with max efficiency, this is your board.
✅ Speed demons—LIFT5 is designed for faster rides and high-performance carving with precision wings and an upgraded mast system.
✅ Long-haul riders—If you like to explore for miles, this eFoil gives you the most ride time and stability out of any Lift model.

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🌊 LIFTX – The Hybrid Foiling Revolution

For riders who want the best of both worlds: eFoiling + surf foiling.

🔹 How It Rides

• Lighter and more maneuverable than the LIFT5, making it perfect for quick transitions and wave riding.

• Folding Prop System—This lets you power into waves, kill the motor, and surf naturally without drag.

• Compact battery—Up to 45 minutes of ride time with the LIFTX Battery, optimized for short, high-energy sessions.

🏆 Who It’s For

✅ Wave chasers—If you love surf foiling but want electric assist, this board is built for you.
✅ Wake + Downwind riders—Perfect for using the motor to get into position and then gliding naturally.
✅ Adventurers—If you want the flexibility to ride different conditions, the LIFTX adapts on the fly.

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🛠 Performance Specs Side-by-Side

 

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🎯 The Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

🚀 If you want the best eFoil experience possible—get the LIFT5.
🌊 If you want an eFoil that blends powered and unpowered riding—go for the LIFTX.

Closing Section: Final Verdict—Which eFoil Should You Choose?

By now, you’ve seen the LIFT5 vs. LIFTX battle laid out in full—features, performance, and who each board is built for. If you’re still undecided, let’s break it down one last time:

🚀 Go for the LIFT5 if…
✔ You want the best pure eFoil experience—longest ride times, highest speed, and the smoothest power delivery.
✔ You’re all about long-distance cruising and want an eFoil that can handle any condition effortlessly.
✔ You value quiet operation and a no-compromise ride, with maximum control and stability.

🌊 Go for the LIFTX if…
✔ You love surf foiling, wake riding, or downwinding and want the flexibility to turn off the motor and ride naturally.
✔ You need an eFoil that’s lighter, more agile, and designed for quick transitions between powered and unpowered riding.
✔ You want to explore more dynamic riding styles rather than just cruising.

At the end of the day, it comes down to how you want to ride. If you’re all-in on eFoiling, the LIFT5 is the premium choice. But if you’re looking for a hybrid experience that lets you blend power and pure foil riding, the LIFTX is unmatched.

 

 Written by Ryan "Rygo" Goloversic: 

Rygo is a globally recognized kiteboarder, digital marketing expert and an advocate for wakestyle kiteboarding. When he's not writing articles, you can catch him competing on the KPLxGKA world tour or grinding it out in the gym.