Abstract: A lift device having a lift structure and a control structure. The lift structure includes a plurality of hydraulic cylinders concentrically arranged. Each cylinder includes a first chamber and a second chamber. At least one of the cylinders includes the second chamber being in fluid communication the first chamber of an adjacent cylinder. The cylinders are operably disposed to extend or retract in response to fluid pressure applied to a first chamber of at least one of the cylinders. The control structure is arranged and disposed to apply a control force to at least one of the cylinders to controllably extend or retract the plurality of cylinders. A portable lift system and method for lifting a platform is also disclosed.