Views: 2 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2023-09-29 Origin: Site
Portable electric wheelchairs provide mobility and independence for those who need it. With lightweight frames and compact designs, portable power chairs allow users to travel and get around with ease. This guide covers everything you need to know about portable electric wheelchairs from types, features, prices, and more to help you find the right mobility solution.
Portable electric wheelchairs, also called power chairs, are motorized mobility devices that are lightweight and foldable. Here is an overview of portable power chairs:
Benefits
Compact size for portability and travel
Maneuverable for indoor and outdoor use
Powerful enough to handle varied terrain
Customizable features and accessories
Provide independence and mobility
Drawbacks
More expensive than manual chairs
Require maintenance of batteries
May not handle very rough terrain well
Limited battery life per charge
Key Features
Foldable frame for portability
Detachable or flip-back armrests
Adjustable seat height and depth
Durable and lightweight materials
Swing-away joystick control
Powerful motor and battery system
Types
Travel power chairs
Heavy-duty portable chairs
Standard portable power chairs
Custom customizable chairs
Users
Those with mobility impairments
Elderly and disabled individuals
Anyone needing mobility assistance
Price Range
$2000 to $8000 for new portable power chairs
$500 to $3000 for used and refurbished chairs
Using this guide, you can find the ideal portable electric wheelchair to enhance your mobility.
There are several types of portable power chairs designed for different needs and situations.
Travel power chairs are the most lightweight and compact.
Features:
Weights as little as 40 lbs
Folds into a very small size
Best for travel via car, bus, train, or plane
Limited range per charge (5-10 miles)
Examples:
Invacare Traveler Plus Power Wheelchair
Drive Medical Fly Lite Wheelchair
Pride Mobility Go-Go Folding Wheelchair
These provide more power and durability for outdoor terrain.
Features:
Heavier duty frames, motors, batteries
Better suspension for shock absorption
All-terrain tires or tracks for rough surfaces
Range of 12-25 miles per charge
Weights approximately 100-200 lbs
Examples:
Permobil F5 Corpus Power Chair
Pride Mobility Maxima Power Chair
Drive Medical Titan Power Chair
Standard portable chairs balance travel size with comfort and power.
Features:
Weights 50-100 lbs
Good for travel and daily activities
Moderate range up to 15 miles per charge
Customization options available
Examples:
Invacare Pronto M41 Power Chair
Golden Compass Sport Power Chair
Drive Medical Cirrus Plus Power Chair
Fully customizable chairs allow you to tailor the fit and features.
Features:
Choose seat size, controls, tires, accessories
Made to individual specifications
Provides optimal fit and function
Wide selection of options for mobility needs
Examples:
Permobil Custom Power Chairs
Quantum Custom Power Chairs
Adaptive Star Custom Wheelchairs
This table compares the types of portable power chairs:
| Type | Weight | Range/Charge | Usage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Travel | 25-50 lbs | 5-10 miles | Transport and travel | $2000-$4000 |
| Heavy-Duty | 100-200 lbs | 12-25 miles | Outdoor and rough terrain | $4000-$8000 |
| Standard | 50-100 lbs | Up to 15 miles | Daily use and transport | $3000-$6000 |
| Custom | Varies | Varies | Personalized fit and features | $4000-$10,000 |
Portable power chairs come with a variety of features to look for depending on your specific mobility needs.
The more compact and lightweight, the easier to transport and maneuver.
Travel chairs fold to very small sizes.
Standard portable chairs still fold into compact shape.
Measure dimensions in folded and open positions.
Lightweight materials like aluminum reduce weight.
Lower weights of 30-50 lbs ideal for lifting and travel.
Wheel types impact maneuverability, comfort, and terrain handling.
Drive wheels in front or rear impact maneuverability.
Larger wheels work better outdoors and on uneven surfaces.
Anti-tip wheels provide stability on inclines.
All-terrain tires and tracks for rough ground and grass.
Air or solid tires determine comfort and flat resistance.
Motor power and speed settings allow custom use.
Powerful motors climb inclines and handle heavier users.
Adjustable speed settings for safety.
Higher top speeds allow active outdoor use.
Monitor battery charge, power, and drive ranges.
Seat configurations provide optimal positioning, support, and comfort.
Adjustable seat height, depth, width, and angle.
Custom molded seats and backrests for ergonomic support.
Headrest, lateral trunk supports, and leg rests available.
Thicker cushioning adds comfort during extended use.
Key features optimize portability for travel and storage.
Quickly fold and unfold frame with flip-up armrests removed.
Quick-release or detachable wheels.
Locking casters for stability when folded.
Carry handles or straps to lift and transport.
Batteries easily removable for lightness.
Intuitive controls allow easy steering and speed adjustment.
Standard joystick control near armrest.
Touchpad, head array, or sip-and-puff controls available.
Adjustable speed dial or settings.
Locking or keystart mechanisms for safety.
Lithium battery systems impact range, weight, and life.
Longer-lasting lithium batteries versus lead acid.
Higher voltage systems provide more power and range.
Quick-charging or extended life batteries available.
Easily removable batteries for charging and transport.
Backup batteries can double operating capacity.
Optional accessories provide customization for specific needs.
Cell phone, cup, and bag holders.
Positioning belts and straps for added support.
Respiratory holders for oxygen.
Flags, baskets, pads, and lights.
Custom coloring and upholstery.
This chart compares features of portable wheelchairs:
| Feature | Benefit | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Size/Weight | Easier to transport and lift | Measure folded size. Lighter is better for portability. |
| Wheels | Handles terrain. Maneuverability. | Drive wheel placement impacts turning radius. Larger is better for outdoors. Anti-tips add stability. |
| Power/Speed | Ability to climb hills. Adjustable use. | Balance power and speed range for needs. |
| Seating | Comfort and ergonomic support. | Highly adjustable or custom seating. |
| Portability | Easy to fold, carry, transport. | Quick folding and locking mechanisms. Detachable parts. |
| Controls | Intuitive steering and speed control. | Joystick, touchpad, or other intuitive controls. |
| Batteries | Range per charge. Power. | Lithium batteries are lighter with longer ranges. |
| Accessories | Customization and usability. | Many options like bags, lights, trays, pads. |
With many types and options for portable chairs, choose one that best fits your unique mobility needs and usage.
If you plan to travel often or carry in small spaces:
Prioritize compact folded size and very low weight.
Focus on travel power chairs with airplane transportability.
Ensure it fits your vehicle and has easy folding.
If you primarily need daily usage with occasional transport:
Standard portable chair offers a balance.
Look for easy disassembly into light pieces.
Fits in minivan and accessible vehicles.
For full-time seated usage:
Seek maximum comfort features and adjustability.
Custom molded, padded seating for support.
Suspension, cushions, and recline accessories.
For occasional limited usage:
Basic cushion and backrest likely sufficient.
Focus more on ideal power and portability.
If using outdoors, up hills, or over uneven terrain:
Seek more ground clearance, all-terrain tires.
Consider a heavy-duty for very rough conditions.
Opt for increased battery capacity.
If only using indoors and paved surfaces:
Standard portable has adequate power.
Focus more on turning radius and smaller size.
Determine any required accessories or options like:
Custom seating for positioning, support.
Specific controls if needed.
Oxygen, ventilator, or rehab accessories.
Safety flag, lights, baskets or bags.
Phone holder, cup holder, or tablet mount.
Standard portable chairs cost $3000-$6000 new or $1000-$3000 used.
Travel chairs run $2000-$5000 new based on features.
Heavy-duty and custom chairs are $4000-$10,000 based on customization.
Set a target budget and requirements, then find optimal models in your price range.
This comparison table of the different types of portable wheelchairs can help determine the right solution for your individual mobility needs:
| Usage | Travel Chair | Standard Chair | Heavy Duty | Custom |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primarily indoor use | Good option, very compact | Best balance for home use | Too heavy for daily indoor use | Overkill for only indoor use |
| Travel by car or plane | Excellent, most compact | Removes some parts to transport | Too large and heavy | Can customize for transport |
| Outdoor use | Limited, lacks power for hills and terrain | Works for mild outdoor use | Ideal for rough conditions | Can customize features for outdoor access |
| Daily full-time use | Lacks comfort features for prolonged sitting | Best comfort-power balance | Very comfortable but heavy | Optimizes seating and power needs |
| Tight space maneuvering | Excellent turning radius | Good maneuverability | Larger size limits tight turns | Can optimize maneuverability |
| Budget conscious | Lower cost option | Mid-range price standard option | Higher priced for features | Most expensive custom option |
Portable power chairs range in price from $2000 for basic travel models up to $10,000 or more for heavy-duty custom chairs with all options.
For new portable electric wheelchairs, here are the general price ranges:
Travel or ultra-light chairs: $2000 - $5000
Standard portable power chairs: $3000 - $6000
Heavy duty or custom chairs: $4000 - $10,000+
Pricing depends on features like range, seating, speed, and optional accessories. High-end models with maximum customization can cost up to $15,000 or more.
| Type | Light Duty | Standard | Heavy Duty | Fully Custom |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Price Range | $2000-$4000 | $3000-$6000 | $4000-$8000 | $6000-$15,000 |
For pre-owned portable power chairs, expect to pay:
Travel or light chairs: $500 - $2000
Standard portable chairs: $1000 - $3000
Heavy duty chairs: $1500 - $5000
Pricing varies based on model, age, features, and overall condition. Work with reputable sellers of professionally refurbished used chairs to ensure quality.
| Type | Light Duty | Standard | Heavy Duty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Used Price Range | $500-$2000 | $1000-$3000 | $1500-$5000 |
Since portable power chairs are considered a medical necessity, many financing options exist:
Medicare, Medicaid, VA often provide full or partial funding if qualified.
Private medical insurance may cover a portion of costs.
Rent-to-own programs through vendors.
Payment plans and low-interest loans.
Grants and charities based on financial needs.
Seek funding sources first before using out-of-pocket payment for expensive power chairs.
There are several options for purchasing portable power chairs new or used:
Medical equipment dealers - Offer wide selections of major brands and customization. Best to try in-person before buying.
Online retailers - Large online vendors have lower prices but may lack in-person service.
Private sellers - Can find discounted used chairs from individuals but no manufacturer warranty.
Rental companies - Offer used refurbished chairs for sale at discounted prices. Limited selection.
Medicare providers - Can purchase chairs pre-approved by insurance for funding support.
Shop around and compare pricing between local retailers and online wheelchair vendors. Always test models in person before purchasing if possible.
Some of the top portable power chair manufacturers include:
Invacare - Wide range of portable and travel wheelchairs.
Pride Mobility - Leading power chair brand with portable models.
Permobil - Offers heavy duty and customizable portable chairs.
Drive Medical - Budget friendly standard and travel chairs.
Golden Technologies - Specializes in affordable portable chairs.
Quantum Rehab - Subsidiary of Pride focused on rehab chairs.
Hoveround - Known for standard and customizable power chairs.
Kaye Products - Specializes in lightweight travel wheelchairs.
While less known, some quality portable electric wheelchair suppliers offer lower prices direct to consumers without the overhead and markup of bigger medical retailers. Always compare warranty coverage between brands.
Custom seating offers optimal comfort and support through adjustments and molded foam.
Power recline, tilt, and elevating leg rests.
Custom molded to shape of user's body.
Choice of seat depth, width and height.
Laterals, headrests, calf pads for positioning.
Basic seats provide basic comfort at lower price points. Seek width, depth and height adjustments at minimum.
Maximum battery range allows longer use between charges.
Lithium batteries offer longest lifespan and range per charge.
Higher voltage battery systems provide more capacity.
Dual battery setups essentially double range.
Quick charging lithium batteries can restore range rapidly.
Range of 10-15 miles meets most daily needs.
For travel, you may need backup batteries or charging to ensure sufficient runtime.
Larger air-filled wheels with suspension optimize comfort and performance.
10-14 inch drive wheels for more ground clearance.
Pneumatic or solid tires balance comfort and maintenance.
Full independent suspension for maximum smoothness.
All-terrain tires for handling grass, hills, gravel, gaps.
If mainly using indoors on smooth surfaces, lower cost solid wheels likely sufficient.
Optimize control positioning and programmability for the user.
Swing away or alternate joysticks if needed.
Touchpads, head arrays, or other control options.
Programmable user settings like speed and acceleration.
Presets like slow indoor or fast outdoor modes.
Evaluate range of movement and hand dexterity to determine optimal control type.
Lights and other accessories customize and expand wheelchair usability.
Safety lighting like headlights, turn signals, and reflective strips.
Mirrors for observing behind the wheelchair.
Bags, baskets, and pouches for carrying items.
Trays and cupholders for convenience.
Weather protection features like canopies and tires.
Assess your daily usage to select useful accessories suited for your activities and terrain.
Ensure adequate weight capacity for the primary user and items carried.
Standard capacity supports 200-300 lbs.
Bariatric options support 300-500 lbs.
Measure weight with user in chair for accessories.
Determine weight needs to find a power chair that provides sufficient capacity and stability.
Select portable electric wheelchairs from reputable brands that provide strong warranties.
Frame and parts coverage for 1-5 years.
Motor and gearbox warranty 2-5 years.
Labor coverage for repairs and service.
Battery warranties 6-12 months typically.
Strong warranty coverage provides peace of mind and protects against costly repairs.
