most 2 post setups are approx 11' tall with the crossover for the hid or cables. the 4 post is nice but takes up a lot of room. i use the maxjax since i have a 8 ft ceiling and love it. stored in the corner when not in use and returns full use of the garage

 

+1 on the maxjax.
I installed one in my garage several weeks ago and is the best piece of mechanical equipment I have purchased.
The main issue I had was finding a low enough rolling chair to get under the car without stooping over.

 

I have both types of lifts. All the aforementioned pros and cons are correct. I would only consider a certified lift (except Backyard Buddy). Whether 2 or 4 post. If you are going to be wrenching a lot and can only have 1 lift then get a 4 post with accesory scissor jacks. I have a direct lift 4 post (Made by Rotary and is certifed), but if I only could only have one I would really consider the backyard buddy. I have looked over the design and even though it is not ALI certified its design is well engineered and more robust than my direct lift. I would have bought one if I could have only had one, but I also have a 10lb asymmetrical Rotary 2 post with extra height. Feel free to PM me if you want more info as I spent a lot of time researching and talking with installers/repair personnel.

 

This is the 4 post lift I just bought for my new garage build. I will report back in a month when I have it installed.

[url]http://www.gregsmithequipment.com/Atlas-Garage-Pro-9-000

 

http://www.directlift.com/Certification.aspx
http://www.directlift.com/Four-Post-Lifts-C9.aspx

Do some research on the ALI certification. May change your mind on what route to take. I'm just an avid consumer not a spokesman

 

wow, this site is chock full of info!