The Best Electric Wheelchairs
Becoming a wheelchair-bound is probably one of the most traumatic things an active individual can experience.
However, it doesn’t have to be as hard as you may think.
When in a wheelchair, you need to be as comfortable as possible.
Also, being in that situation already, it really helps if you can stay as included in daily activities as possible.
Classic, manually operated wheelchairs can be difficult to get used to.
They require you to constantly moving them by yourself or to have someone there at all times to do it for you.
Not to mention difficulties that come with arm straight issues.
Some illnesses just don’t allow patients to use their arms and hands the way they did before.
That makes using a non-motorized wheelchair the way you want absolutely impossible.
Luckily, there are a lot of electric wheelchairs on the market.
They are designed to provide you movability and self-esteem boost you need to enjoy life to the fullest.
Moreover, they are pretty easy to operate.
You can be very comfortable in it and still be able to move around all by yourself.
You won’t have any problems driving where ever you want, even if you’re suffering from an illness that affects your arms and hands.
The only thing you need to invest in making your life better is some money and a little time to get used to driving and turning your wheelchair.
In order to make this investment really worth it, here’s a list of the best electric wheelchairs available on the market.
Highest Rated Electric Wheelchairs (by Customer Reviews)
- 1EZ Lite Cruiser - Standard Model - Personal Mobility Aid - Light Weight Folding Power Chair
- 2Porto Mobility Ranger D09-S No.1 Best Rated Exclusive Portable Power Wheelchair, Lightweight, Foldable, Heavy Duty, Dual Battery, Dual Motor Airplane Ready Folding Electric Wheelchair - Free Case
- 3Innuovo N5513A Lightweight Fodable Power Compact Carry Motorized Electric Wheelchairs Chair 50lbs
- 4Golden Technologies Scooter Powered-Wheelchair GP162
- 5ComfyGO Electric Power Wheelchair Scooter Fold & Travel Lightweight Folding Safe Electric Wheelchair Motorized FDA Approved Aviation Travel Heavy Duty Power Wheelchair (Silver)
- 6Compact Mid-Wheel Drive Power Chair, Burgundy
- 7Porto Mobility Ranger D09, No.1 Best Rated Weatherproof Exclusive Portable Power Wheelchair, Lightweight, Foldable, Heavy Duty, Dual Battery, Dual Motorized Electric Wheelchair
- 8Forcemech Voyager R2- Ultra Portable Folding Power Wheelchair - Weights Only 43 lbs - Airplane Travel Approved (Voyager R2)
- 9Drive Medical Cirrus Plus Folding Power Wheelchair with Footrest and Batteries, Black, 18"
- 10Sentire Med Forza FCX Deluxe Fold Foldable Power Compact Mobility Aid Wheel Chair, Lightweight Folding Carry Electric Wheelchair, Motorized Wheelchair, Powerful Dual Motor Wheelchair
1
EZ Lite Cruiser - Standard Model - Personal Mobility Aid - Light Weight Folding Power Chair
This electric wheelchair is a quality lightweight option.
EZ Lite Cruiser electric wheelchair is made of very strong aluminum.
It can carry a user with up to 264 pounds.
Still, the wheelchair itself only weighs 50 pounds, including the battery.
It has a lithium-ion battery that can give you enough power for driving for 10 miles in one charge.
There’s also a possibility for adding another battery with a Dual Battery Connector, both sold separately.
EZ Lite Cruiser is easily foldable, so you don’t have to worry about installing a lift in order to transport your wheelchair by a car or an SUV.
EZ Lite Cruiser has 8 inches rubberized rear wheels to give you a smooth ride with proper traction.
The wheelchair is put in motion by 250 watts brushless HUM motor that can allow up to 5 mph of speed.
The wheelchair is capable to stand upright when folded, which makes storage and transportation much easier.
The seat cover is removable for quick cleaning.
The chair also comes with separate warranties for each part. EZ Lite Cruiser is capable of moving in pretty narrow spaces since its turning radius is only 33 inches.
That’s more than enough for crowded places and getting around the furniture in your home.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Easy folding
- Warranties for each part
- Lightweight
- Small turning radius
Cons
- No headrest
- The joystick can feel too sensitive at first
Jake's TakeEZ Lite Cruiser is aa good choice for smaller apartments and crowded homes.
It has a pretty small turning radius for you to drive precisely.
The joystick can be mounted on both left and right armrest, for your maximum comfort.
However, give yourself some time to get used to it, since it may feel too sensitive.
Also, the wheelchair doesn’t come with any additional features, but you can get whatever you want from the same manufacturer.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
2
Porto Mobility Ranger D09-S No.1 Best Rated Exclusive Portable Power Wheelchair, Lightweight, Foldable, Heavy Duty, Dual Battery, Dual Motor Airplane Ready Folding Electric Wheelchair - Free Case
The Porto Mobility Ranger D09 is made of lightweight aluminum alloy and weighs only 50 pounds without the battery.
Still, it can carry up to 396 pounds of weight.
The wheels are foam-filled, which makes them puncture-free.
Front wheels are 8 inches and the back ones are 12 inches in diameter.
These wheels are capable to handle most surfaces.
The Porto Mobility Ranger D09 has 33 inches turning radius for easy and safe moving in tight and crowded places.
The brushless DC Electric motor can move you up to 5mph.
The chair has a lithium-ion battery that will give enough power for a 16 miles drive.
The wheelchair is easily foldable and air-travel approved.
There’s no need for installing any special lifts in your car or an SUV since it will fit perfectly in a trunk.
The Porto Mobility Ranger D09 comes with a storage basket underneath the seat and removable seat and a seat cushion for quick cleaning.
The wheelchair has separate warranties for each part.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Long-lasting battery
- Polyurethane-filled tires
- Lightweight
- Easy folding
- Additional basket for storage
Cons
- Cannot be used in wet weather
- Replacement batteries are expensive
Jake's TakeThis is a classy looking option for those who aren’t a fans of spaceship-like looking electric wheelchairs.
Polyurethane-filled wheels mean you don’t have to worry about the right pressure in tires or flat tire situations.
However, you have to think about the weather in advance since this chair is not waterproof.
Also, wheels tend to become slippery on wet surfaces, so the breaking can be challenging.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
3
Innuovo N5513A Lightweight Fodable Power Compact Carry Motorized Electric Wheelchairs Chair 50lbs
The Innuovo N5513A Lightweight electric wheelchair gives you the opportunity to choose between two modes.
They can be both manual and electric.
You can easily switch between the modes by yourself.
The chair is made of aviation-grade aluminum and weighs only 50 pounds with batteries.
It supports up to 265 pounds of weight and provides smooth ride and stability.
Two lithium-ion batteries can give enough energy for a 13 miles drive in one charge.
The tires are air-filled.
Front wheels have 9 inches in diameter.
Both seat cushion and a backrest are comfortable and breathable.
In this wheelchair, you’ll be able to get an all-day experience without the pain caused by long sitting.
It also has an adjustable leg rest.
The Innuovo N5513A Lightweight electric wheelchair is easily foldable and convenient when it comes to storage or fitting in a trunk.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Easy folding
- Lightweight
- Release-to-brake joystick control
- Adjustable leg rest
Cons
- Not waterproof
- No headrest
Jake's TakeThis wheelchair is a good choice for people in love with traveling and outdoor activities.
Since they’re extremely lightweight and foldable, you can easily fit them in a car and unfold them in a matter of seconds.
However, you won’t be able to use them in wet weather.
Air-filled tires also require regular maintenance.
The joystick is easy to handle and has a convenient breaking system.
It can also be fixed on both oft he armrests for your complete comfort.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
4
Golden Technologies Scooter Powered-Wheelchair GP162
This is one of the most budget-friendly electric wheelchairs on the market.
Still, by choosing Golden Technologies Scooter/Powered wheelchair you won’t compromise with the quality.
This wheelchair comes to you in four pieces that are easy to assemble together, with the heaviest one weighing only 35 pounds.
The Golden Technologies Scooter/Powered wheelchair can go up to 4 mph.
It comes with two batteries that give enough energy for driving 15 miles in one charge.
The wheelchair has a small turning radius for easy maneuvering in corners and tight spaces.
The chair is pretty easy for transportation since it will disassemble in seconds.
The simple design comes in three different color combinations- basic black with cherry red, green and purple.
Golden Technologies Scooter/Powered wheelchair is designed for extensive use.
It has a soft padded cushion on the seat and back.
Spacious seat makes a long seating much more comfortable.
It also has spacious leg rest and an additional storage basket underneath the seat.
The tires are air-filled and capable of handling bumpy terrains.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Easy disassembly
- Additional storage basket
Cons
- Sensitive joystick
- Disassembly may be a two-person job
Jake's TakeIf you’re on the budget, this wheelchair is a good choice.
It`s a lot less pricey than options so far but still offers the same durability.
It may not look that modern and powerful for younger users, but it will surely benefit the seniors.
Just make sure that they have a good amount of a joystick practice to prevent unwanted movements.
Also, keep an eye for the shipping.
Some customers reported the chair coming to them in broken pieces.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
5
ComfyGO Electric Power Wheelchair Scooter Fold & Travel Lightweight Folding Safe Electric Wheelchair Motorized FDA Approved Aviation Travel Heavy Duty Power Wheelchair (Silver)
The ComfyGO Lightweight electric wheelchair comes with a Bluetooth remote controller that allows you to control the chair from the distance.
The frame is made of aluminum alloy that is used in the airplane industry.
This wheelchair is extremely durable and stable.
It will drive easily over challenging surfaces like grass, snow or gravel.
This frame has slightly more weight than options we reviewed so far- 64 pounds with the battery.
The wheelchair can safely support 365 pounds.
It has a lithium-ion battery that produces power for over 13 miles of driving in one charge.
You can also double that distance by adding one more battery.
The ComfyGO Lightweight electric wheelchair can reach 4 mph.
It comes with a seat belt and an anti-tipper addition on the wheels.
The wheels can absorb vibrations and shocks while driving over bumpy surfaces.
The folding is a one-hand job and can be done within seconds.
The wheelchair folds down in a quite compact size for you to easily transport it.
The joystick is detachable and you can fix it on both left and right armrest.
The chair is ergonomic to make long sitting more comfortable.
Seat and back cushions are both breathable and removable for easy and quick cleaning.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Bluetooth controller
- All-terrain wheels
- Ergonomic design
- Safety features
Cons
- A bit heavier than other options
Jake's TakeThis is a mid prise ranged option for those who love to explore the outdoors.
Heavy-duty wheels will work on some pretty bumpy terrains without causing you any discomfort or pain.
On the other hand, for a travel-friendly wheelchair, this one is surprisingly heavy.
Bluetooth remote controller will make using this chair even easier.
Anti-tipping technology and safety belts makes it perfect for conquering steep terrains.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
6
Compact Mid-Wheel Drive Power Chair, Burgundy
The Compact Mid-Wheel Drive Power Chair from CTM Mobility Scooter is designed to satisfy all of your safety needs.
This wheelchair has an anty-tipping mechanism on the wheels.
The wheels themselves are air-filled and the tires are made of ribbed rubber to prevent slipping on different surfaces.
There’s also a seat belt to add on safety while you’re enjoying your favorite activities outside.
The swing-away joystick will allow you to pull up to any table or a counter.
The CTM Mobility Scooter Compact Mid-Wheel Drive Power Chair has adjustable headrest and footrest for maximum comfort during the long rides.
The maximum speed is 4 mph.
The chair can withstand up to 300 pounds of weight.
The padding on back and seat cushion are quite tick and you can simply clean it with some mild soap and water.
The wheelchair is weighing 206 pounds with batteries.
It comes with a fancy color combination of light and dark grey with burgundy red bottom.
Front wheels are 5 inches, mid-wheels are 10 inches and rear wheels are 8 inches in diameter.
The wheelchair also has a very sharp turning radius of just 22.4 inches.
The batteries can power the chair for up to 14.5 miles in one charge.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Safety features
- Swing-away joystick
- Extra sharp turning radius
- All-terrain wheels
Cons
- A lot heavier than other options
- Sensitive joystick requires some training
- Doesn’t fold easily
Jake's TakeThis wheelchair is a lot heavier than other options out there.
However, it will provide you with much more stability on rough terrains.
For a chair with all-terrain wheels that are supposed to allow you to experience the outdoors with peace of mind, this one doesn’t have that easy folding mechanism.
Overall, this is a chair you’ll have to get used to and to practice to operate for a few days.
If you’re planning some traveling around, it may be the best to leave this one at home and get more compact chair for the road.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
7
Porto Mobility Ranger D09, No.1 Best Rated Weatherproof Exclusive Portable Power Wheelchair, Lightweight, Foldable, Heavy Duty, Dual Battery, Dual Motorized Electric Wheelchair
The Porto Mobility Ranger D09 folding electric wheelchair is a choice for those with a more generous budget.
This model is lightweight and easily foldable.
It only has 50 pounds without batteries and you can easily fit it in a trunk of your car or in an SUV.
There’s no need for installation of additional lift.
The frame has a weight limit of 396 pounds.
Two lithium-ion batteries gove enough power for up to 16 miles of driving at the maximum speed of 5 mph.
However, the maximum speed can be adjusted to fit your needs.
The tires are polyurethane-filled and puncture-free.
Front ones are 8 inches and rear ones are 12 inches in diameter.
The turning radius of Porto Mobility Ranger D09 folding electric wheelchair is 33 inches, which makes it suitable for crowded apartments and getting around the corners safely.
Maintainance-free tires are good in outdoor driving, but keep an eye for bumpy surfaces, since they can cause uncomfortable vibrations.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Easy folding
- 2 batteries
- Foam-filled tires
- Money-back warranty on each part of the wheelchair
Cons
- Much pricier than other options on the market
- Replacement batteries are quite expensive
Jake's TakeThis is a much pricier option that all of the others we reviewed so far.
However, if you can afford it, go for it.
Maintainance-free wheels are capable of driving you safely over almost any terrain.
Still, keep in mind that you may find the exact same features at a more affordable price.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
8
Forcemech Voyager R2- Ultra Portable Folding Power Wheelchair - Weights Only 43 lbs - Airplane Travel Approved (Voyager R2)
The Forcemech Voyager R2 can possibly be the lightest one on the market.
It only weighs 43 pounds without the batteries.
The metal alloy frame can withstand 265 pounds of weight.
Two lithium-ion batteries can support up to 16 miles of driving at the maximum speed of 4 mph.
The tires are polyurethane-filled to prevent any punctuations.
You can easily conquer almost any terrain due to features added for a more comfortable ride.
All wheels have metal alloy core for more durability and you don’t have to worry about them cracking after years of extensive use.
In the front Forcemech Voyager R2 has shock-absorption spring to smoothen the bumpy surfaces.
You can safely drive whenever you want since the chair is already in a light-reflective bright yellow color.
In addition, there are rear reflective lights for night driving.
The folding mechanism is simple and quick, so your chair can fit almost any trunk in no time.
The Forcemech Voyager R2 is plane and cruisers approved.
Front wheels have 7 inches in diameter, while rear ones are 9 inches.
The wheelchair has a 32 inches turning radius.
It also comes with a money-back warranty.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight
- Easy folding
- Foam-filled tires
- Reflective color for night driving
Cons
- Cushions need to be removed in order to fold the chair
- Getting around the footrest can be tricky
Jake's TakeThis is a futuristic-looking option that can provide you with full movability even through narrow places.
It`s a great traveling companion since it folds quickly and you can take it on the plane or a cruiser.
It’s also one oft he lightest wheelchairs you’ll find on the market.
That alone is worth of money.
Being suitable for a night driving is also a nice touch.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
9
Drive Medical Cirrus Plus Folding Power Wheelchair with Footrest and Batteries, Black, 18"
This is another budget-friendly, jet high-quality option on our list. The Drive Medical Cirrus Plus folding power wheelchair is made of carbon steel with a silver finish. The steel frame makes this wheelchair extremely durable. On the other hand, it adds weight. With batteries, this wheelchair has 146 pounds and can support up to 300 pounds of weight. Two lithium-ion batteries and a powerful motor can drive up to 5.5 mph, which makes this chair one of the fastest of all we reviewed. The ribbed tires are capable of handling almost all terrains. The Drive Medical Cirrus Plus folding power wheelchair has a somewhat classic wheelchair look. However, it comes with a number of features. It has an integrated and programmable PG controller and a joystick with adjustable length. Moreover, this wheelchair comes with an additional pouch for storage. For more comfort, there’s a swing-away footrest with calf straps and heel loops. Wheels have a manual wheel lock for extra safety. Cushions on the seat and back are padded. The chair has both electric and manual modes for you to switch between depending on your needs.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Electric and manual mode
- Extra safety features
- Programmable controller
- Budget-friendly
- Flat-free tires
Cons
- Not lightweight
Jake's TakeThis is a budget-friendly option that still gives you enough stability.
In fact, due to all of the safety features, this chair is a great choice for those more physically challenged.
However, it`s not as lightweight and portable as other options on the market.
Also, a classic look may be a downer for some customers.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
10
Sentire Med Forza FCX Deluxe Fold Foldable Power Compact Mobility Aid Wheel Chair, Lightweight Folding Carry Electric Wheelchair, Motorized Wheelchair, Powerful Dual Motor Wheelchair
The Sentire Med Forza D09 electric wheelchair is one of the priciest options on this list.
It comes in alloy aluminum frame that weighs 67 pounds with batteries included.
At the same time, it can withstand up to 360 pounds of weight.
It comes with two lithium-ion batteries that can produce enough power for over 15 miles of driving at maximum speed of 4.5 mph.
The Sentire Med Forza D09 electric wheelchair has a sharp turning radius for easy maneuvering around the corners.
The folding mechanism is quick and simple, with a handle for more practical lighting.
The Sentire Med Forza D09 electric wheelchair is a good option for travelers since it fits perfectly in a trunk of the regular car.
The joystick is on the right armrest.
For getting a left-hand one you’ll have to contact the manufacturer.
This chair comes with some extra features.
There’s a cup holder, a storage bag, a battery bag and a travel bag to keep your wheelchair clean.
The seat and a seat cushion are both removable for quick cleaning.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Easy folding
- Lightweight
- Extra features
Cons
- One of the most expensive options on the market
- Cushions may be too thin for long sitting
Jake's TakeThis is not an option for people on the budget.
Some can say that the price is justified by extra features.
However, how much you really want to pay for a cup holder?
Other than that, this is a durable, good looking model.
Just be sure that the joystick is removable from one armrest to the other or that its already on the right side for you.
The manufacturer doesn’t really makes it clear online.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
Electric Wheelchairs Buying Guide
There’s not just a lot of electric wheelchairs on the market, but they come in different types and variations, from many brands and with many different features.
Also, when buying an electric wheelchair, you need to have a budget in mind.
This is not a small investment but can be the best one you ever made.
It will improve the quality of your life and reassure you that you’re not limited in any way.
However, if you don’t understand how electric wheelchairs work and what they can do, you can get lost in terms and numbers pretty fast.
That’s why we compiled a list of things you want to have in mind while shopping for a perfect electric wheelchair.
Talking and Thinking Beforehand
Before even starting to look at all of the different options, you need to talk to your doctor or physician.
Discuss with them the desire to get an electric wheelchair.
They’ll be able to determine if this is a good choice for you.
You can also find out all the pros and cons that come with this kind of medical help.
Your doctor can also give you some useful advice on using an electric wheelchair and safety tips you need to know.
After you got doctors’ approval, its time to think about your needs.
In order to get a perfect electric wheelchair that will satisfy you completely, you have to ask yourself some questions.
Consider where you’ll be using a wheelchair.
There are outdoor, indoor and options for all terrains.
Also, you need to think about the possibility to transport the wheelchair.
You’re about to move around much more, so you want something you can easily transport in a car or when you travel by bus, a train or even cruisers.
With the right wheelchair, there’s really no limit.
Speaking of limits, one of the most important things is to consider the speed you want to have in a wheelchair.
Finally, think about what seating style will make you most comfortable and if you want a lightweight device you can easily fold when you’re not needing it.
The Weight
This may come to you as a surprise, but most of the electric wheelchairs are much lighter than manual-operating ones.
They are designed to give you more movability and independence.
Therefore, the weight of your wheelchair can make a big difference in whether you gonna enjoy the ride or not.
The weight range of electric wheelchairs out there is pretty wide.
You can find anything weighting form 50 to 350 pounds.
Heavier wheelchairs can be difficult to maneuver sometimes but give you much more stability.
On the other hand, lightweight options will provide more speed, but can be unstable while turning.
Type of Wheel Drive
For an electric wheelchair to fulfill your every need, you need to take a close look at a wheel drive you want.
There three basic types of wheel drive you’ll find on electric wheelchairs and all of them have pros and cons.
Electric wheelchairs with a front-wheel-drive have good turning capability.
Front-wheel drive also adds stability while maneuvering.
However, these electric wheelchairs have the lowest speed limits from all three options.
Electric wheelchairs with a mid-wheel drive are the best ones in turning from all three types.
On the other hand, they can be unstable in starting and stopping.
Also, they are not a good choice if you’re expecting to drive over uneven surfaces a lot.
Electric wheelchairs with rear-wheel drive are the most popular ones and they are the type that can mostly be found on the market.
These are the fastest electric wheelchairs, which most users find very desirable.
On the other hand, the rear-wheel-drive is pretty bad at turning when compared to the other two types of wheel drives.
Type of Batteries
Possibly the most important part of your electric wheelchair is the battery.
You`ll rely on its durability since the battery is a power source of this type of wheelchair.
When choosing the battery type, you need to consider maintenance requirements.
Some batteries need more work around them than the others.
If that’s too much for you, you can always opt for ones that don’t need maintenance to work at full capacity.
There are four basic types of electric wheelchair batteries.
AGM batteries require no maintenance.
They are shock-resistant, spill and leak proof and allowed on the plane.
These batteries are saturated with the acid electrolyte on the absorbent glass mat sandwich in between the plates.
This form reduces the chances of damage by vibrations and jarring.
On the other hand, AGM batteries are the most expensive option you can get.
The price is much higher since they are the most convenient battery type for extensive use.
Gel batteries are also a no-maintenance type.
They work well at low temperatures and are also leak-proof.
Get batteries are very long-lasting.
They are allowed on the plane as well.
These batteries are filled with a mixture of pure water, fumed silica, sulphuric acid, and phosphoric acid to create a thixotropic gel.
Wet batteries are the least expensive option of all of the electric wheelchair batteries.
They are lighter than AGM and gel batteries.
On the other hand, they do require some maintenance.
You`ll need to fill the battery with distilled water from time to time.
Wet batteries use a chemical reaction between sulphuric acid and lead to create electric energy.
If you choose this option, keep in mind that wet batteries tend to leak and are not allowed on the plane.
Lithium-ion batteries are a top choice by the electric wheelchairs manufacturers lately.
They have a long life cycle and can provide much energy in just one charging.
They are also lightweight and don’t add much to the weight of a chair itself.
In comparison, while a lead-acid battery can store 25 watt-hours per kilogram of battery, a lithium-ion battery can store up to 6 times the energy.
Lithium-ion batteries are completely safe to use, environment-friendly and non-hazardous.
Watch For The Armrests
Armrests are something that gets easily overlooked while choosing a wheelchair.
However, they can really improve or totally destroy your electric wheelchair experience.
Besides being there as a place to rest your arms, armrests can have a more important place in your everyday life.
Armrests can add support in sharp turns and sudden stops as you can use them to stabilize the whole wheelchair.
With the help of good armrests, you can lift and move your body in a chair for more comfortability.
Finally, armrests can serve as a supporting point while reaching for things or picking things up from the floor.
If armrest fits you perfectly, by resting your arm on them you can aid in improving your posture and relieve the spine and intervertebral discs from pressure with minimum force.
What will matter the most while choosing an armrest is the level of function that you have and the activity level you want.
The Controller
Electric wheelchair controllers are also known as “joysticks”.
They are used for driving the wheelchair.
You can control stopping and starting, turning, the speed you want and a direction you’re going in.
There are two types of electric wheelchair controllers you can choose from.
Modular controllers have separate components for all of the functions and elements they control.
That means a lot of buttons and sticks.
Integral controllers have all of the components in one place with a single joystick.
This type of controller is less expensive than the modular one.
Finally, some wheelchairs that come with a modular controller have the option of replacing it up for an integral one if that is what benefits the user the most.
Finally, integral controllers look and feel more sophisticated.
Seating and a Leg Rests
When seating for a long time, leg rests may mean the difference between comfort and discomfort.
Also, they can play a crucial role in your good posture and overall health.
If your legs tend to swell or hurt, leg rests will allow you to adjust them into a resting position that suits you, including straight outward.
Leg rests come with a calf pad or padded area that is adjustable for as much comfort as possible.
Some electric wheelchairs also have powered recline system.
You`ll be able to elevate the leg rests and independently recline into a laying back position.
It all comes down to your own needs.
If you need assistance to adjust your legs, you’ll benefit more of the powered recline system and be able to make yourself comfortable on your own.
Accordingly, this feature costs much more than a manual adjusting leg rest.
However, if you’re buying a wheelchair that you gonna spend much time in, it’s definitely worth every penny.
An electric wheelchair can be further customized by adding a seat and back cushions that will feel supportive and comfortable.
The Wheels
There are two basic types of wheels on all of the electric wheelchairs.
The main difference is in tires they use.
Air-filled tires are also known as pneumatic ones.
These tires provide a smooth ride on uneven terrains and bumpy surfaces.
Air-filled tires absorb the shock and create a gentle experience of riding.
They are also stable due to deep-tread that increases tire traction.
On the other hand, air-filled tires will require regular maintenance.
You`ll also need to be sure that they have proper air pressure in them in order to function normally.
Air-filled tires can also go flat if they are punctured, so keep an eye on the surface.
Foam-filled tires are the other type you can get.
They are filled with polyurethane.
Foam-filled tires do not leak or rupture.
They also cannot be punctured.
Therefore, you don’t have to fear the flat tire situations when you need them the least.
These tires are easy to take care of since they require little to no maintenance.
On the other hand, those are not meant for bumpy surfaces.
Foam-filled tires cannot go over a rough terrains smoothy.
They can even cause major discomfort when they hit some serious bumps.
Conclusion
With a list of the best options you will find on the market right now and some important things to know before making your choice, you should be pretty confident when looking for a wheelchair that will change your life.
After all, its only goal is to make your limits disappear.
Keep in mind that all you have to do is to make a good choice once.
The electric wheelchair is a big investment.
However, with a right one, you’ll be able to move whenever you want without any assistance.
Not the mention the confidence boost a good-looking model can bring you.
All of the features you can get are worth of your time browsing and, ultimately, your money.
Whether your intent to use it from time to time or to make it your permanent form of transportation, you’ll find what you’re looking for in an electric wheelchair in at least one model on our list.
What's your take on Electric Wheelchairs? You think they're just a luxury or a must-have item? Don't hesitate to share your comment below with your opinion!
