With our help, you’ll be able to find the best electric wheelchairs on the market and see how they stack up against each other in terms of price, features, and pros and cons.
- Best Overall: Cirrus Plus Power Wheelchair
- Best Heavy Duty Power Chair: Pride Mobility
- Best Travel: LiteRider Envy
- Best Lightweight: Forcemech Voyager 2 Wheelchair
- Best Lightweight Foldable: Porto Mobility Ranger D09
Relying on a wheelchair or other mobility device doesn’t come with the limitations and high prices that it once did, thanks to the new era of electric wheelchairs.
Electric wheelchairs are a completely separate product in the world of mobile devices and shopping for the right one means knowing exactly what features are going to make a difference to you.
The specs and features can be confusing if this is your first time looking for a wheelchair which is why we’ve designed this comprehensive buying guide to make the search a little easier.
The best power wheelchair should be reliable, comfortable, and offer convenience, but in addition to those features, you likely have your own specific needs that have to be met which is what makes each person’s search so unique.
Take some time to read through our motorized wheelchair reviews to see which ones have been rated the top performers and which ones might be able to meet your unique specifications.
BEST ELECTRIC WHEELCHAIRS 2022
The electric wheelchair was first unveiled in the 1950s but a whole lot of changes and updates have been made to these devices to bring them into the 21st century.
We’ve gone through countless power wheelchair reviews to find you the most modern, affordable, and accessible in all price ranges and purposes, so you can bring some.
A good wheelchair can change your life and make it a whole lot easier to manage, so it’s one of the most important investments you’ll make for your health and wellbeing.
#1 Best Overall - Drive Medical Cirrus Plus Wheelchair
Our number one pick for the best-motorized wheelchair for the elderly comes from Drive Medical with their Cirrus Plus model.
This wheelchair combines the best of both worlds giving the user the power and speed of a regular electric accessory with the convenience of a folding device.
It’s capable of reaching up to 5mph and is made with a durable carbon steel frame that’s also surprisingly slim and easy to maneuver in all types of settings.
One of the best things about this wheelchair is the top speed of 5mph which puts it ahead of most in this price range.
If you’ve found other chairs to be a little slow and you want to pick up the pace, this one will be the way to go.
Better yet, because the chair isn’t bulky like you’d expect you feel as though you’re going even faster and won’t be weighed or slowed down.
Another great feature that customers loved was the comfort level, thanks to the standard inclusions that come with the chair.
It has a luxurious two-inch foam seat cushion, padded backrest, and completely adjustable upholstery.
You can customize this to your exact needs and it’s easy enough to make further adjustments down the road should you want to try something different.
This is a pretty heavy wheelchair so if you’re looking for something that disassembles easily and can be put in your car or van without much of a fuss, this isn’t the way to go.
The heaviest piece weighs 90lbs which is for the base so you’ll likely need help lifting it.
However, if the weight isn’t an issue and you have assistance for lifting, then choosing something more durable like the Cirrus Plus is the better option.
Other features worth mentioning include two options for seat width of either 16 or 18 inches or a larger 20-inch seat for an additional charge.
The swing-away footrests are convenient for when you need them and they come with calf straps and heel loops.
With a maximum weight capacity of around 300lbs, it will fit most users comfortably, but for larger users, you might need to upgrade to something more suitable.
This wheelchair is a breeze to maneuver thanks to rear-wheel drive, electromagnetic braking, and a massive four-inch clearance from the ground.
It has a turning radius of 30-35 inches and you’ll be able to get around 15 miles on a single battery charge which is a great feature to have considering the lower price range it falls into.
The Cirrus Plus is a surprisingly affordable entry into the portable electric wheelchair reviews, retailing for around $1,500 for the base model.
There are options for upgrades and different specifications so you can truly tailor it to your needs, and Drive Medical offers a one-year in-home servicing from the date of purchase.
If convenience and maneuverability are your main goals, this is the best electric wheelchair that ticks both of those boxes.
WHAT WE LIKE
- Highly durable wheelchair that can lasts over decade
- Overall body comfort when sitting
- Easy to transport and move
- Folds easily and is turns into a compact size
- Runs best on outdoor surfaces
- Highly cushioned seat
- Adjustable and removable armrests
wHAT WE DON'T LIKE
- A bit harder for few people to use control regarding the speed
- Chair moves too fast
- Limited working of the batteries
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Size: 18” Seat
- Foldable: Yes
- Materials: Carbon steel frame
- Weight: 146 lbs
- Speed: 5 mph
- Range: 18 miles
SEE ALSO – Glide walkers for seniors
#2 Best Heavy Duty Power Chair - Pride Mobility
When you’re in search of the most durable and powerful battery-powered wheelchairs, something like the Pride Mobility Heavy-Duty Wheelchair will be the ideal solution.
This seriously tough wheelchair is capable of holding up to 450 lbs of weight and is made for people of above-average build, but can still fold away easily whenever you don’t need to use it. Hence it is one of the best electric wheelchairs for the heavy person on our list.
According to reviews, the power of this wheelchair was what made it so impressive, with users of all shapes and sizes remarking at just how well it traveled up steep inclines.
Thanks to its solid construction and a frame that comes with a 5-year limited warranty you never have to worry about this mobility device failing you.
Another feature that customers loved was the seat with a depth of 20 inches and a width of 22 inches which far exceeds what most wheelchairs have to offer.
You have ample space for sitting and won’t feel squashed which makes the overall experience of using this electric wheelchair even more comfortable.
This is the best option out there for those with above-average physical needs and the size of the chair alone is proof of that.
Although it’s designed to be an indoor and outdoor wheelchair, some of the reviews mentioned its poor performance when outdoors.
Some users found the traction wasn’t that great which can be scary if you’re going up a hill, but if you usually travel on pavement or indoors then it’s perfectly made for indoors.
Other features worth mentioning on this wheelchair include a programmable controller that can be adjusted for different users, adjustable armrests, and flip-up footrests.
This wheelchair runs for around 9.8 miles off one battery charge which is great considering its size.
The wheels are knobby tires with a turning radius of 24″ inches and they’ve added in auxiliary brakes so you can feel safe no matter when you’re going.
Priced at around $3,699.00 the Pride Mobility Heavy Duty Power Wheelchair is one of the costlier options, but if you need something to suit your unique physical requirements then there’s no better or more durable choice.
With a limited lifetime warranty on the frame and round-the-clock customer service, you can purchase this portable wheelchair with the peace of mind that you’re getting something well made.
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wHAT WE LIKE
- Wide seat and highly spacious wheelchair
- Extra room with adjustable armrests
- Easy to transport and move
- Folds easily and is turns into a compact size
- Runs best on both indoor and outdoor surfaces
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Amazing battery life
WHAT WE DON'T LIKE
- A bit harder for big people to adjust on the seat
- Chair creaks a lot
- Tight turning radius
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Size: 26” seat
- Foldable: Yes
- Materials:
- Weight: 190lbs
- Speed: 4mph
- Range: 25 miles
#3 Best Travel: LiteRider Envy
If your number one priority for a battery-powered wheelchair is lightweight construction, you’ll be impressed with the Golden Technologies Ligthrider Envy.
This chair has been designed with the caregiver and end-user in mind because no piece weighs more than 35lbs and it can be easily disassembled and set up again in mere seconds.
According to reviews, the convenience that this chair offers is what sets it apart.
If you’re someone in the market for a lightweight and easy to transport wheelchair and don’t need a lot in the way of weight capacity or extra features then you’ll love this.
In total it weighs around 120lbs but all of the pieces disassemble with ease and they weigh less than 35lbs so you can pack it up without a hassle.
Another great thing is the top speed of 5mph and the impressive battery life.
This chair works with two 22Ah batteries that can be easily changed as needed and you’ll get quite a lot of use out of just the one charge.
Thanks to the lightweight construction it requires less energy to run and therefore it takes very little in the way of maintenance and charging, giving you just over 15 miles of use each time.
There were some negatives to consider though, with the main one being the weight capacity of 300lbs and the somewhat limited power.
While these are both pretty standard complaints on more lightweight wheelchairs it can limit the user somewhat, and it’s only designed for people of smaller stature.
The largest seat option is 20 inches which some might find restrictive as well, so you’ll want to make sure it suits your physical needs before you commit.
Although being pretty standard in its design, there are still loads of great features that the Golden Technologies Lite Rider has to offer.
With four smaller wheels instead and 5-inch ground clearance, you’ll be able to travel more places, and it has a handy travel basket installed to keep all of your belongings close by.
The stadium-style seat gives you a comfortable place to sit and a footplate to keep your feet elevated and out of the way.
This super lightweight powered wheelchair comes in a range of colors including cherry red and paradise blue so if you’re after one with a little more personality this is where you find it.
The Golden Technologies Lite Rider Envy retails for around $1,500 which is pretty standard for a lightweight wheelchair of this quality.
There’s a lifetime warranty offered on the frame and a two-year limited warranty for the rest of the chair so it’s got amazing coverage that proves its quality.
If you want something easy to use and super portable, the Golden Technologies Lite Rider envy is the best power wheelchair for outdoor use.
wHAT WE LIKE
- 300 pounds of users weight
- Can be travelled with airplane and car
- Disassembles into 4 parts for portability
- Folds easily and is turns into a compact size
- 6 colour variation of wheelchairs
- Highly cushioned seat
- Amazing turning radius for small turns
WHAT WE DON'T LIKE
- Chair’s seat is wobbly
- Hair backrest is not comfortable
- Tip wheels are way back
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Size: 20 inch seat
- Foldable: No
- Materials: N/A
- Weight: 123lbs
- Speed: 5mph
- Range: 15.5 miles
#4 Best Lightweight - Forcemech Voyager 2 Wheelchair
Our number one pick for the best-motorized wheelchair comes from Drive Medical with their Cirrus Plus model.
This wheelchair combines the best of both worlds giving the user the power and speed of a regular electric accessory with the convenience of a folding device.
It’s capable of reaching up to 5mph and is made with a durable carbon steel frame that’s also surprisingly slim and easy to maneuver in all types of settings.
One of the best things about this wheelchair is the top speed of 5mph which puts it ahead of most in this price range.
If you’ve found other chairs to be a little slow and you want to pick up the pace, this one will be the way to go.
Better yet, because the chair isn’t bulky like you’d expect you feel as though you’re going even faster and won’t be weighed or slowed down.
Another great feature that customers loved was the comfort level, thanks to the standard inclusions that come with the chair.
It has a luxurious two-inch foam seat cushion, padded backrest, and completely adjustable upholstery.
You can customize this to your exact needs and it’s easy enough to make further adjustments down the road should you want to try something different.
This is a pretty heavy wheelchair so if you’re looking for something that disassembles easily and can be put in your car or van without much of a fuss, this isn’t the way to go.
The heaviest piece weighs 90lbs which is for the base so you’ll likely need help lifting it.
However, if the weight isn’t an issue and you have assistance for lifting, then choosing something more durable like the Cirrus Plus is the better option.
Other features worth mentioning include two options for seat width of either 16 or 18 inches or a larger 20-inch seat for an additional charge.
The swing-away footrests are convenient for when you need them and they come with calf straps and heel loops.
With a maximum weight capacity of around 300lbs, it will fit most users comfortably, but for larger users, you might need to upgrade to something more suitable.
This wheelchair is a breeze to maneuver thanks to rear-wheel drive, electromagnetic braking, and a massive four-inch clearance from the ground.
It has a turning radius of 30-35 inches and you’ll be able to get around 15 miles on a single battery charge which is a great feature to have considering the lower price range it falls into.
The Cirrus Plus is a surprisingly affordable entry into the portable electric wheelchair reviews, retailing for around $1,500 for the base model.
There are options for upgrades and different specifications so you can truly tailor it to your needs, and Drive Medical offers a one-year in-home servicing from the date of purchase.
If convenience and maneuverability are your main goals, this is the best electric wheelchair that ticks both of those boxes.
wHAT WE LIKE
- Sturdy and enough room space
- Seat is cushioned and comfortable
- Works on both indoor and outdoor spaces
- Extremely outstanding customer service
- Joystick is very sensitive and has several speed options
- Catchy wheelchair design
- Lightweight and folds easily
WHAT WE DON'T LIKE
- Battery drains quickly
- Chair backrest is not comfortable
- Extremely underpowered
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Size: 17 x 17 inches seat
- Foldable: Yes
- Materials: Aluminum alloy
- Weight: 43lbs
- Speed: 4mph
- Range: 16 miles
#5 Best Foldable - Porto Mobility Ranger
Most lightweight wheelchairs aren’t known for their durability, so if you’re after something with a bit more strength you’ll appreciate the solidly built Porto Mobility Ranger.
This wheelchair weighs just under 50lbs without its battery but it’s capable of carrying close to 400lbs in weight.
If you’ve been looking for the lightweight and the best folding power wheelchair that’s easy to transport but still needs something reliable and suited to your own size this will be the perfect solution.
According to happy customers, this is one of the better electric wheelchairs on the market that can go outdoors just as easily as it does indoors.
It features non-puncture tires and a fantastic turning radius of 33 inches which is a lot more than most we’ve reviewed.
If you regularly travel outside, on rocky surfaces, grass, dirt, or anything that’s not paved you’ll love the off-road qualities this has.
Another great thing about the Porto Mobility Ranger is the weight, being less than 50lbs in total without the battery.
Users found it was easy enough to lift and get into their car which is thanks in part to the aluminum alloy frame giving it the lightweight feel but still keeping its durability and strength about it.
Comfort was an issue with this lightweight wheelchair which lost it some points.
Some users mentioned that the foam padding was a little thick and even affected the chair when it was time to fold it up and pack it away.
As an upgrade, the Porto Mobility Ranger could go with something a little less bulky and perhaps more cushioned to fix both of these problems in one.
There were a few mentions from customers about battery life and how it didn’t stack up to what was promised.
Although the Porto Mobility Ranger is meant to last for around 16 miles on a single charge, some were getting a lot less than that which isn’t ideal when you’re out and about.
To avoid this issue it’s recommended to run the battery down completely before recharging, and if you have ongoing problems it’s best to return it for a replacement.
This is a feature-packed chair with plenty to brag about including a 12-degree incline limit, 3.7-inch ground clearance, and durable wheels of 8 inches at the front and 12 inches at the back.
When it’s unfolded it tucks up neatly to 38 x 25 x 37 inches which means it can fit in even the smallest model of car without breaking a sweat.
It comes in silver or black and you can upgrade to a larger seat for an extra $100 if you need it, giving you 21 inches of room.
The Porto Mobility Ranger is covered with a three-year warranty on the frame but only six months on the battery, so if you notice issues with it then you’ll want to sort them out right away.
Amazon lists this electric wheelchair for around $2,400 so it’s not cheap, but if you’re after the perfect blend of lightweight construction with a solid design then there’s nothing better on the market.
wHAT WE LIKE
- Ebay to get in and out of the chair
- Easily folds just like mentioned
- Dual batteries provided
- Stable while sharp turns
- Best on uneven terrains and steep surfaces
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Large wheels for high stability
WHAT WE DON'T LIKE
- Footrests are not adjustable
- Chair backrest is not comfortable
- Fairly expensive
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Size: 18.5-inch seat
- Foldable: Yes
- Materials: Aluminum alloy
- Weight: 50lbs
- Speed: 5mph
- Range: 16 miles
An Introduction to Electric Wheelchairs
Electric wheelchairs are one of the most popular mobility devices these days because of the added convenience that a powered motor has.
Although they come in many shapes and sizes, most have the same basic parts which are the motor, controller, battery, and drive, as well as the seat itself and other comfort features like armrests and feet pads.
These wheelchairs come in a few different types and it totally depends on the user as to which one is going to be the right fit.
Within each of these types, you can also select things like wheel size and seat width to suit your specific needs, so an electric wheelchair can be quite customizable.
These are some of the most common styles you’ll see and what type of user they might suit.
- Travel: These electric wheelchairs are made specifically for travel and come with features like folding mechanisms, lightweight frames, and a compact frame that makes them easy to transport.
- Lightweight: Lightweight wheelchairs are usually made with materials like aluminum alloy and easier for caregivers and end-users to carry and transport. Their weight capacity is less than most to make up for the lighter weight.
- Heavy duty: These are designed with a larger weight capacity in mind and suitable for users up to 600lbs and more. They’re usually heavier and made from durable steel, and powered with a stronger motor and drive to suit the weight they’re carrying.
- Full size: This refers to a standard full-sized wheelchair powered by an electric motor. It may not be as easy to transport or fold up but has all of the features you’d find in a standard chair.
READ NEXT – A Complete Guide to Select a 4 wheel walker with seat.
How to Choose the Best Electric Wheelchairs for Elderly?
An electric wheelchair is an expensive purchase. Hence, there are a few things you should keep in mind before buying one:
Motorized Wheelchairs cost:- A Powered wheelchair will cost you around $1,500 to $4,000 and can go up to $15,000. High-end wheelchairs may include recliner options and can also have a mechanism that can bring the user to a standing position.
Indoor and Outdoor Mobility
If you are looking to use the wheelchair at home then, there are few things that you need to keep in mind.
- Figure out the turning radius of the chair
- Think about the seat’s height and width
- Make sure the wheelchair fits through every door so that you don’t get stuck.
- Make sure the wheelchair height is the same as your beds so that you can easily manage getting in and out.
- If you are looking to use the wheelchair outside then, there are few things that you need to keep in mind.
- Many wheelchairs work best on all surfaces, and some do not work on grass, gravel, and bumpy terrains. Make sure it is suitable for terrains you usually use
- Make sure it is light in weight, compact, and easy to fold and assemble while traveling.
Getting In and Out of the Chair
If you are walking small distances, then getting in and out of the wheelchair should be easy. However, if you are not mobile enough then, make sure you consider how easy it is to get in and out of the wheelchair.
Make sure the chair is compatible with your needs.
Comfort
If you are going to spend a lot of your time in a wheelchair then, make sure you buy a comfortable one. Many brands offer electric wheelchairs with great cushioning and backrest options.
Make sure you look into the materials for cushioning before you buy yourself a wheelchair.
Battery
The battery is something you should consider when buying an electric wheelchair. Few wheelchairs are designed with large batteries that may last for weeks on a single charge.
Power
Many wheelchairs are slow and have a jogging pace. But when you have to travel through rough terrains, motor power is very essential.
Look for an electric wheelchair that can help you overcome bumps daily.
However, a stronger motor will drain your battery faster, and a weak motor wheelchair will last longer.
Weight Capacity
You can expect the wheelchair to hold at least 240lbs of the user’s weight. But if you weigh more than 240 lbs then things can get a bit difficult for you. Make sure you check the weight capacity of the wheelchair before you purchase one
Electric Wheelchairs FAQ
Shopping for a new electric wheelchair can be a lot of fun if you know what you’re looking for, but it can also be confusing if you’re new to this type of device.
Portability mobility accessories like electric wheelchairs come in all shapes and sizes which is why the search for the right one can be confusing.
To help you out, we’ve answered some commonly asked questions about electric wheelchairs to give you a rundown on what they’re all about.
Are Electric Wheelchairs Covered By Medicare?
Eligibility for a Medicare-covered scooter or wheelchair has become stricter in recent years.
Where once it was easier to get a prescription from a medical professional for an electric wheelchair now they are only given to seniors and others who meet the criteria of Medicare Part B and where it is medically necessary, otherwise a standard manual wheelchair may be offered.
How To Get A Wheelchair Through Medicare?
In order to qualify for a wheelchair through Medicare, there are strict criteria that must be met and it must be deemed medically necessary to get one.
You must have a face-to-face appointment with your doctor or another qualified health professional and they will be able to write you a prescription for a mobility device.
This can then be taken to a wheelchair store or supplier for a discounted price on a wheelchair.
How Do You Transport A Power Wheelchair?
Most modern power wheelchairs have been designed for transport so they either fold away or disassemble into a smaller size.
Some compact wheelchairs are able to fit on airplanes and others are made for standard size cars, and they might collapse down into a smaller shape or have a few separate parts that can be disassembled.
How To Replace Battery On Electric Wheelchair?
A replacement battery on an electric wheelchair is usually organized through the manufacturer as they have specific requirements to fit the device.
It’s always best to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines when you purchase a new electric wheelchair to see what’s recommended before attempting to replace the battery yourself.
What Is The Range Of Electric Wheelchair?
All electric wheelchairs come with their own features and specifications, including the range which means how far they’re able to travel.
A standard electric wheelchair can go anywhere from a few miles up to 25 miles, and it depends completely on the quality and power capabilities of the device as well as the top speed and condition of it.
Can You Drive Electric Wheelchair On The Road?
An electric wheelchair or standard manual wheelchair should not be driven on the road under any circumstances.
There are some instances where you’re able to travel with your electric wheelchair on a road, like a pedestrian crossing, but otherwise, it’s deemed unsafe for both the user and the other people around you.
What Is The Difference Between Mobility Scooter And Electric Wheelchair?
There are a few key differences between mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs, including the overall shape and wheels.
A mobility scooter uses a tiller and handlebars to steer where an electric wheelchair is operated with a joystick.
There are four wheels on a scooter compared to six or more wheels on a wheelchair, including two main wheels and four smaller ones.
What are the best power wheelchair Brands?
Pride Mobility: It is one of the highest and best leading brands for power wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and lift recliners. Pride Mobility products generally range between $1,00 to $5,000.
Drive Medical: It is the best option when you have to buy medical equipment. They have folding, standard drive, and heavy-duty electric chairs with a limited lifetime warranty. Their products fall in the $1,500 to $2,500 range.
Are Electric Power Chairs Are Airline Approved?
Basically, the type of battery operation decides whether the wheelchair is airline approved or not. However, many wheelchairs are approved for airline travel.
Image Source: Amazon
Why Are Electric Wheelchairs So Expensive?
Lots of research and mechanism goes into building an electric wheelchair. The machines are designed, researched, and made of the highest quality to offer you the best experience.
Once you add the price, you can see why the wheelchairs are expensive.
Can an electric wheelchair support my weight?
Most wheelchairs can accommodate a user’s weight of fewer than 300 pounds. However, there are many best electric wheelchairs for heavy person available online that can carry a weight of 330 pounds.
Amazon Recommended Electric Wheelchairs
Last update on 2023-07-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Right Wheelchair Can Be Lifechanging
An electric wheelchair has the potential to completely change your life and make it so much easier to do the things you used to be afraid to.
Choosing the right one to suit your physical needs and the places and settings you’ll be taking it is essential though, which is why so many people struggle when it’s time to get a new one.
Whether this is your very first electric wheelchair or an upgrade from one you’ve owned for years, you’ll want to take your time making sure you get it right.
A quality wheelchair needs to be tailored to your exact needs but it should also be functional, portable, and convenient above all else, so it’s an investment that you want to take seriously.
Think about what you require from a wheelchair and let that guide you to the right fit.
Some people need a lightweight wheelchair that’s easy to travel with and others need a reliable and sturdy framed device to help them carry a larger than average load, so no two wheelchairs are ever going to be the same.
We’ve reviewed some of the top rated electric and power wheelchairs on the market to show you what the best of the best looks like and give you an idea of the features you should be looking for.
We chose Drive Medical Cirrus Plus Wheelchair as the best option for you. The wheelchair is amazingly built for elders with limited mobility.
A good wheelchair has the potential to completely change your life and give you a new level of freedom, so be sure you don’t skimp and choose something less than what you deserve.
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Last update on 2023-07-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API