Our Editors independently research, test, and rate what we feel are the best products. We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases.
If you’re having trouble with the upper body strength needed for manual wheelchairs, then there is a solution: electric models. However, there are countless models on the market today so it can be difficult digging through them all to find the best electric wheelchair for you.
That’s why we’ve spent over the last month testing countless models, so you don’t have to. Let’s get started! Also see our Electric Wheelchairs Buyers Guide.
Best Electric Wheelchairs
| Sentire Med Forza D09 | Forcemech Voyager R2 | Porto Mobility Ranger D09 | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | |||
| Frame | Aluminum aircraft alloy | Aluminum alloy | Aluminum alloy |
| Motor(s) | Two, 250-watt | One, 200-watt | Two, 250-watt |
| Chair Weight | 5 pounds | 43 pounds | 50 pounds |
| Customer Ratings | 4.7 / 5.0 Stars | 4.4 / 5.0 Stars | 5.0 / 5.0 Stars |
Also see: Electric Wheelchairs Comparison Table
Quick Answer: The 5 Best-Rated Electric Wheelchairs – 2020
- Sentire Med Forza D09
- Forcemech Voyager R2 – Ultra Portable Folding Power Wheelchair
- Porto Mobility Ranger D09
- Innuovo N5513A Electric Wheeelchair
- CTM Mid-Wheel Drive Power Chair
Electric Wheelchairs Reviews
#1- Sentire Med Forza D09
- Frame: Aluminum aircraft alloy
- Motor(s): Two, 250-watt
- Chair Weight:5 pounds
- Voltage: 24V
With style and durability wrapped into one, there’s no questioning why the D09 consistently ranks as one of the top power chairs money can buy.
With the ability fold up and down in a mere 5 seconds, you don’t have to worry about it being an inconvenience, even while traveling.
The chair is compact enough, that it fits in the majority of trunks. For quick transportation, you’ll also a handle right under the seat.
Expand To See More Weighing just under 60 pounds, it’s actually pretty lightweight, all things considered. The frame is comprised of silver aluminum aircraft alloy, with matching footrests. This means that it’s anything but clunky, while remaining nice and sturdy – requiring little to no maintenance. The ergonomic design makes this seat comfy for hours upon hours of use. Thanks to the long-lasting battery life and shock absorbers, you can take it on grass, gravel, snow, pavement, and more with no issue. The model comes with two 250-watt motors so powerful that you can take on just about anything. The easy-to-detach cord on the joystick makes it quick to remove, too, so you can place it on your favored side.
#2- Forcemech Voyager R2- Ultra Portable Folding Power Wheelchair
- Frame: Aluminum alloy
- Motor(s): One, 200-watt
- Chair Weight: 43 pounds
- Voltage: n/a
Coming with Dual 200-watt brushless motors and dual 6.6Ah lithium batteries, you’ll get a max travel distance of up to an impressive 16 miles on a full charge. The lightweight wheelchair incorporates an ergonomic design to keep your body properly aligned while providing a supreme level of comfort.
Expand To See More As each wheel is made with metal alloy core, you can use it with confidence knowing they’ll be able to handle anything that comes their way. Furthermore, shock-absorption springs are added into the front to provide a smooth and seamless ride. You really can take this power wheelchair with you wherever you need to go. As it’s an FDA-certified product, get ready to take it on airplanes, cruise ships, and more. You’ll also find rear reflective lights to ensure your safety in all lighting conditions and add extra visibility. While we don’t think that will be too much of a problem considering the highly visible yellow color of the chair, it’s never a bad idea to have more safety features.
#3- Porto Mobility Ranger D09
- Frame: Aluminum alloy
- Motor(s): Two, 250-watt
- Chair Weight: 50 pounds
- Voltage: DC 24V
It draws many similarities to the Sentire Med Forza D09, but with some notable differences. First off, it’s a bit less expensive, which is never a bad thing!
The frame comes in either Silver or Black, depending on your personal tastes and preferences, with “Ranger” located in red right on the side to make for an edgy style.
Expand To See More The heavy duty best folding wheelchair folds in just seconds and is quite compact, making it air-travel-approved. There’s no need to use a lift on your car, either. It easily fits into trunks of cars equal or bigger than a Honda Civic/Toyota Prius/Chevy Cruze. The fact that it only weighs 50 pounds makes it a breeze to carry, too. With a turning radius of a mere 33 inches, you can use it with precision and speed, moving around tight spaces seamlessly. Made for indoor and outdoor use, you’ll find 8” front and 12” rear puncture-resistant wheels so you can easily go “off-roading”. Supporting users up to 396 pounds, it also works with the majority of consumers who need mobility and comfort.
#4- Innuovo N5513A Electric Wheeelchair
- Frame: Aviation Aluminum
- Motor(s): Two, 250-watt
- Chair Weight: 50 pounds
- Voltage: 24V
Coming with a foldable footrest and a 7.5-centimeter-thick seat cushion, you’ll always be in the lap of luxury. This design is ergonomic so that your spine will be protected while the thick cushion helps to protect against bedsores.
Expand To See More The innovative joystick design along with the electric magnetic braking system also helps ensure your safety while giving you excellent control with the ability to stop in less than a second. The adjustable anti-leaning rear design also ensures stability and strength. The frame is comprised of aviation aluminum which makes it so light, easy to transport, and solid. You can expect many years of use out of this electric chair, making it more than worth it. To expand on how easy it is to transport, it only takes 3 seconds to fold it down! That means you can easily stow it on a plane, in a car trunk, and so on.
#5- CTM Mid-Wheel Drive Power Chair
- Frame: n/a
- Motor(s): 420-watt
- Chair Weight:1 pounds
- Voltage: 12V
We’ll admit that they’re not revolutionizing anything here, but we do appreciate the chair being reliable and comfortable.
This best wheelchair for elderly people can easily navigate tight indoor and outdoor environments with a max speed of 4 mph. Climbing curbs isn’t an even an issue, thanks to the 2.5-inch ground clearance.
In addition, it can climb hills up to 8 degrees, which is quite impressive. Needless to say, you’ll be able to take on all kinds of uneven and even rocky terrain without fail.
Large anti-tip casters in the front will ensure you’re stable and confident every time.
Expand To See More With luxurious padding on the seat and a smooth backrest, you’ll be nice and comfortable even after hours of use. The adjustable footrest and headrest will also help with this, keeping your spine aligned. Coming with enough battery life to travel up to 19 miles or more on just one full battery, you can take back your independence and do whatever you want. With the capacity to hold up to 300 pounds, it’s not all that impressive, but rather the average. However, it is important to note that this transport wheelchair weighs a whopping 206 pounds, which is by far the heaviest model on our guide. This means that if you’re looking for a chair to use while you’re traveling, it’s best to look at the previous 4 we’ve reviewed.
Electric Wheelchairs Comparison Table
| Price | Frame | Motor(s) | Chair Weight | Customer Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sentire Med Forza D09 | $2,815.49 | Aluminum aircraft alloy | Two, 250-watt | 5 pounds | 4.7 / 5.0 Stars | |
| Forcemech Voyager R2 | $2,298.00 | Aluminum alloy | One, 200-watt | 43 pounds | 4.4 / 5.0 Stars | |
| Porto Mobility Ranger D09 | $2,549.00 | Aluminum alloy | Two, 250-watt | 50 pounds | 5.0 / 5.0 Stars | |
| Innuovo N5513A Electric Wheeelchair | $1,999.00 | Aviation aluminum | Two, 250-watt | 50 pounds | 4.5 / 5.0 Stars | |
| CTM Mid-Wheel Drive Power Chair | $1,991.00 | n/a | 420-watt | 1 pounds | 4.8 / 5.0 Stars |
Electric Wheelchair Buying Guide
Now that you’ve had the chance to read through the detailed reviews made above, have you decided which is the best transport wheelchair for you? If you haven’t then there’s no need to worry.
We know it can be hard deciding when there are so many amazing products to choose from. That’s why we’ve decided to take it upon ourselves to write up the comprehensive buying guide, below.
Weight of Chair
First off, it’s a good idea to take the weight of the actual chair into consideration. What will you be using it for, or rather, where will you be taking it?
The chairs on our guide range from 40 pounds all the way to 206 pounds, which is quite a large difference. That means that the lighter models are obviously going to be more convenient.
These are perfect if you’re someone who needs to take their powered wheelchair with them on an airplane, cruise ship, or in a car that doesn’t have a lift.
If you do have a lift and don’t plan on taking them on airplanes, then heavier models may be just fine for you.
User Weight Limit
Even if you have the best power chair ever created, it’s not going to do you any good if it doesn’t support your weight. So, before you do anything else, figure out what your current weight is.
After this, make sure that the wheelchair you have your eye on is more than capable of supporting it. Typically, the highest weight limit is about 400 pounds, while the industry average is 300.
Frame
Almost every single one of the models on our guide feature a frame made of aluminum alloy, save for #5. Aluminum alloy is the top choice due to it being very lightweight and sturdy.
You can expect these models to last you years upon years of regular use. Not only that, but aluminum alloy is relatively affordable, keeping the costs down for you.
Aside from the material, also take a look at if the model is foldable. If it’s not, then you’ll know you’d only be able to transport if with the aid of a lift. If they can fold, you’ll be able to keep it in a car trunk, airplane, and more.
Each model varies with how quickly they can fold, too.
Wheels
Wheels tend not to vary too much, but you do want them to be puncture-free or puncture-resistant, especially if you’ll be using it outdoors frequently.
This is where you should really think about where you’ll be using your chair. Are you just using it on evenly-paved sidewalks and indoor environments, then your wheels don’t have to be as heavy-duty.
On the other end of the spectrum, if you’re going to be riding on New York City streets or on unpaved trails, then you need wheels that can handle rocky and uneven terrain.
They should be able to roll over obstacles with ease, and ensure a smooth ride every time. If they have built-in shock absorbers, that’s even better as it will ensure your comfort and minimize impact, which can cause fatigue and soreness.
Comfort
That brings us to our next point, which is comfort. Comfort is another one of the most important factors, as you’re going to likely be using it for hours on end. Look for a seat that has adequate padding.
This padding can also help to minimize vibration and impact, while avoiding soreness or bedsores. The back should also be nice and comfortable, while supporting the spine and keeping it properly aligned.
If the model comes with a headrest and/or footrests, then these should have the ability to be adjusted exactly to your preferences and your body.
Battery
Each chair will come with a different type of battery, with different wattages. Some will have one, some will have two included.
If you’re lucky enough to get two batteries, this is ideal as you can use one while charging the other, so you literally never run out of charge.
That means you’ll never have to plan your life around waiting for your charger to load up a battery.
Maximum Speed
Different wheelchairs often come with different maximum speeds. However, the best wheelchair brands come made with your typical controller options to let you make adjustments to go faster and slower.
The standard speed range is 4 to 9 miles per hour, but you’ll occasionally find some with less or more.
Maximum Range
The max distance of the chair is the range that depends on the power wheelchair model. The range is usually between 15 and 25 miles.
The type of battery, your weight, the battery’s size and age, and the type of terrain you’re riding over all affect the distance you can get out of it.
Price
How much are you planning on spending on your new electric wheelchair? Before you start window shopping, it’s a good idea to have this number in mind.
Wheelchairs vary widely in price, so you should at least give yourself a price range to go off of. However, it’s important to note that when it comes to the models on our guide, an increase in price doesn’t necessarily mean an increase in quality.
Warranty
A 3-year warranty seems to be pretty standard among powered wheelchair brands, though it’s not a rule. With that being said, we highly recommend going for a warranty that has, at minimum, 3 years.
Think of a warranty as the manufacturer’s way of vouching for how durable a product is.
Frequently Asked Questions On Electric Wheelchairs
Q: How long do power wheelchairs last?
A: The battery life is dependent on a lot of different factors such as the kind of terrain you’re using it on and how much you weigh. However, the standard is around 5 years.
To keep your battery lasting as long as possible, make sure to bring the chair to get serviced at least once per year.
Q: How far can my wheelchair possibly travel?
A: This, once again, depends on the chair. You can typically expect a wheelchair to get at least 8 hours or 10 miles, at minimum. If it’s a higher-quality design, you should expect much more out of it: around 20 miles.
Again, the condition of your battery will influence your results.
Q: Will Medicare pay for a power wheelchair?
A: Medicare Part B will cover power-operated vehicles, walkers, and wheelchairs as durable medical equipment, or DME.
However, you’ll need your doctor to submit a written order stating that you have an actual medical need for this wheelchair.
Q: Can you push an electric wheelchair?
A: While you’ll obviously be able to control the chair on your own, you may need to move it to transport it. You can use levers to disengage the drive motors so that you can push it manually.
Electric Wheelchairs – Buyer’s Tips
#1: Try to charge the battery as you sleep to get a full day of normal usage out of it during the day.
Keep in mind that this is referring to relatively young batteries. If yours need replacing, then you may want to consider buying another.
#2: Power wheelchairs that are used frequently will actually last longer than those left alone.
While this may seem counterintuitive, the motors and batteries do need regular charge going through them to properly function. If you’re not going to be using it for a while, at least charge the batteries up fully once a month to keep them active.
#3: Keep tires fully inflated to make rolling easier.
This also helps extend the time needed between battery changes, will extend mileage and lengthen lifespans of the tires and tubes.
Summary
Now that you’re practically an expert in everything related to the best electric wheelchairs, which one will you be using?
While each of the aforementioned chairs are the top models currently, it’s most important that you select the perfect product for you. Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll see you again soon!
Notice:
HealthWellness365 is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. HealthWellness365 earns fees from products sold through qualifying purchases by linking to Amazon.com. Amazon offers a commission on products sold through their affiliate links.In March 2019 Amazon announced that Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts (HSA/FSA) would be accepted as new forms of payment for eligible product purchases. Using HSA/FSA funds to purchase on Amazon can be a great way to reduce taxes and reduce overall healthcare costs for items not covered under medical insurance. Users of such medical savings plans are issued a debit card by their provider, which can be added to their payment methods in their Amazon account.
Whether items sold on Amazon are deemed as eligible for HSA/FSA plans remains the responsibility of the buyer and their particular health plan provider. It’s ultimately up to the IRS and participating health plan providers to deem which medical and health products are considered eligible for the payment plans.
But the eligibility is quite broad and inclusive of thousands of products that are sold on Amazon and considered Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts plan-eligible. See this IRS document for more information about Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p969.pdf
