As a medical professional, I have a problem recommending an electric wheelchair for most of my patients. I believe that a good electric wheelchair does more than help a disabled person. It transforms life for the disabled person in as much as it transforms life for the person that is the patient’s caretaker. As someone who has a disability, I can tell you that using an electric wheelchair is a privilege not to be taken for granted.
If you want a good quality electric wheelchair, then expect it to be on the high side. If you don’t know what you want and are scared to buy anything cheap, then do not worry. We have researched the best electric wheelchairs for you.
Top-quality electric wheelchairs are very expensive. A good quality electric wheelchair should cost in the range of £1500. A self-contained power chair with a 360-degree joystick, features such as independent power-assist and power-assist brakes and runs on 120V AC is usually not less than £1000. These chairs are usually good for moderate use, are good for children and great for the elderly. You should, therefore, not expect to buy an inexpensive wheelchair.
Some wheelchairs will offer the wrong function. Some could be manufactured by people who know little about the function of the equipment they produce, and some of them are difficult to use and not comfortable.
Some electric wheelchairs are difficult to fold and fit in cars. Some would not fold, and some are too complicated for their owners to operate. It would be best if you had a wheelchair that is flexible in any situation. It should be comfortable for the user and easy to manoeuvre.
Prices for electric wheelchairs vary depending on quality, model, specifications and features. Make sure you visit an Amazon reliable seller, so you do not get fleeced.
How much is electric wheelchair too much to spend? You would be surprised by the quality of a wheelchair from the lowest price. Take time to compare prices, features and read reviews. Some wheelchairs have a huge range of features and may only also be the cheapest option. But you would never know that unless you compare prices.
These are all factors that affect your choice. They should all be considered before you make a purchase. Below are the top 10 safest and reliable electric wheelchairs UK users can get online. These electric wheelchairs have been rated by users, and these people know how to use these wheelchairs and what good they are.
Table of Contents
1. DGPOAD Electric Wheelchair
DGPOAD uses a sturdy carbon steel frame, and this suggests it’ll not deform easily in long-term use, and it can bear 150kg / 330lb. It weighs only 34kg / 74.9 lbs. which makes it fit effortlessly in the trunk of most vehicles. It has a smart joystick with 360 ° anti-electromagnetic interference. Swift, with its electromagnetic braking mode- it stops immediately and will not slip after freeing your hand.
One of the features I cherish about DGPOAD is its quiet 250W * 2 brushed motor and smooth operation. The left and right armrests can be opened and closed at will, making it easier for users to get on and off.
Features
- Battery: 24V * 20A, 15-25km lithium battery.
- Motor: 250W * 2
- Travel speed: 6 km/hour.
- Battery weight: about three kg/6.6 lbs.
- It has a remote control.
Read More: Best Mobility Scooter UK
2. AIR PUMP Electric Wheelchair
It is one among the lightest designs within the heavy-duty portable power chair class- made from the aircraft-grade aluminium alloy frame. It fits for all road types like grass, ramp, deceleration strip, brick, muddy, snow, and bumpy road.
The individuality of this durable piece is many, and among it’s its 500-watt ultra-powerful motors delivering to the foremost on all-terrain surfaces which afford you with all the energy you’ll need even on hills and slopes. One of the features I look out for in wheelchairs is the class of brake. This wheelchair surpasses my brake standard because it has an intelligent electromagnetic brake to ensure user’s safety.
Also, it’s a neutral option allowing it to be used as a manual chair so caregivers can opt to push it manually when the necessity arises. Its uniqueness extends to its lithium batteries which produce lots of power for an extended time.
Features
- Max Weight Capacity: 300 lbs.
- Premium breathable seat and back cushions.
- Motor: brush motor
- Motor power: 500w
- Battery: 12A24V lithium battery.
3. FanYu Mobility Scooter
Fanu is carefully weld for excellent durability and reliability. It’s equipped with a host of safety features that make it one of the safest brands to trust for elderly persons. It is a multipurpose chair that can be used as a mobility scooter, stretcher, manual wheelchair, power wheelchair, lifting devices, and mobility stair climbers for manual wheelchairs. It is effortless to load into your vehicle for transportation or storage. On a single charge, the battery can power up to 800 stars (45 Storeys) and an additional 25km road journey. It is exquisite on tight, spiralled and flared stairs and a must-have for people with special needs such as cerebral palsy, autism and other conditions. It optimizes their independence, movement, ease and safety in the home, at school, out and about.
Features
- Load: a 125-150kg person
- It comes with a stairlift.
- It comes with a powerful charger- 26A lithium battery
- Headrest
- Weighs 46kg
4. ZHANGYY Electric Wheelchair
This is not only a disabled person’s delight but caregivers best choice too. One person can operate this easily folded chair with 82cm long wear-resistant rubber track, easy to climb stairs, steps, lightweight stair evacuation chair. It is built with a durable powder-coated frame an ergonomic lifting handles which reduce stress on caregivers. Its neoprene seat and stable platform make it extra soothing and comforting.
Most chairs cannot be used in a confined space. Still, unlike this dual locking rear wheels, sharper turns increase range of motions are made possible with its rotation casters as well as easy stabilization of user loading and unloading with its dual locking features. Its commendable features extend to four-point seat belt restraints, headrest strap, headrest cushion, battery charger, battery power cord and a heavy-duty lithium-ion battery.
Features
- Machine net weight: 26 ± 2 kg
- Track angle: 30°
- Maximum load weight: less than 160 kg
- Rising speed: average 40/min (±5)
- Flat speed: 10 kilometres per hour
5. Elderly Electric Wheelchair
If you’re considering a chair for the elderly, someone with lower limb disability, hemiplegia, paraplegia then LAYG is a top reliable choice. It can be folded within 5seconds and compact to fit into small trunks.
Its 2 Units of Powerful 250W Motors are reliable and stable for both indoors and outdoors. There are buttons for most operations, such as speed indication and its joystick can be mounted on either left or right, which makes it easy to both left and right-handed people. LAYG also comes with Intelligent Safety Brake System as well as parking handbrake which prevents parking and rolling as experience in some low standard wheelchairs.
Features
- Maximum load: 100kg
- Controller: intelligent universal controller
- Maximum load: 120kg
- Motor: 250W * 2
- Traveling speed: 6km / h
6. ZHENAO Wheelchair
ZHENAO is unique for its anti-odour, user-friendly, unisex pull-out potty design. The pain that comes with the most unconventional wheelchairs is disabled with its high backrest protects the neck and shoulders of the user.
Its pedal is removable, which helps save space and can be used as an ordinary wheelchair.
The brake is less complicated for older adults, it is built with interlocking brakes, and handbrake function on both sides of the wheelchair and these can be controlled easily when needed. The rear wheel is designed to protect the user when subjected to pressure.
Features
- It has a toilet function tray.
- Made of high carbon steel.
- Net Weight: 25Kg.
- 24 inch Rear Wheel.
7. Deluxe Electric Wheelchair
This aluminium alloy made electric wheelchair folds up in 5 seconds without disassembling and is remarkably compact to fit in most small trunks. It has a handle under the seat for comfortable lifting.
They are decked with two (2) 250-watt motors for a powerful ride. The joystick can be installed on the right or left side, and it has an easy-to-detach cord which makes it easily removable. Cleaning a wheelchair can be tasking but not Deluxe. It comes with under the seat storage and a removable seat and seat cover for easy cleaning. This sturdy wheelchair features a sharp turning radius that makes razor-edged turning a walk-over.
Features
- Travel Speed: 5 MPH (Adjustable).
- Climbing Slope: 25° slope or 40 Max.
- Battery Capacity: 6Ah x2.
- Motor Power: 250W*2.
- Brake System: Intelligent Electromagnetic Brake.
8. YuCar Electric Wheelchair
The inclined electronic system is ergonomically designed for comfort with long-lasting battery life and shock absorber for ride convenience. It comes with an easy-to-detach cord on the joystick to easily remove and place on the right or left side and can walk up to 15Km when fully charged.
It comes with a power drive, intelligent controller and other mobility aid components. This happens to be one of the life-saving brands I recommended for my disabled friend after a series of wrong choices, and it’s been living to its name ever since.
Features
- Lithium battery, removable to independent charging.
- Motor power: 250W * 2
- Battery capacity: lithium battery 13A 24V/ 15km; 20A 24V/25km.
9. PowerStroll Electric Wheelchair
Pulling a heavyweight wheelchair shouldn’t be added to the burden of being on a wheelchair. This dual lightweight power stroll eliminates the strain of pushing a heavy wheelchair and affords a smooth work on hills, ramps and gradients.
It can easily be fitted and removed and adapts to suit most wheelchair sizes as well as being compatible with most drive wheelchairs. It’s outfitted with a handset with a variable speed dial and direction button.
Features
- Weight capacity: 115kg (18st).
- Total product weight: 14kg (31lb).
- Weight of battery pack only: 7kg (14lb).
- Gradient: 6 degrees.
10. WISGING Electric Wheelchair
This is not just a home wheelchair. It is becoming for all different road types such as grass, ramp, brick, muddy, snow, and bumpy road. It also has an FDA approval, and it is convenient and straightforward for aviation travel; thanks to its ultra-lightweight- it is just 59 lbs. with battery! It’s easy to fold design reduces it in seconds to a compact unit about the dimensions of a suitcase for storage or travel and possesses antiseptic, breathable seat and back cushions.
It also comes alongside a travel bag, making transporting even more comfortable and convenient. It travels at a maximum speed of 3.73 mph and features a 12.4-mile range with a battery charging time of 6-8 hours. Its armrests are often raised for simple side access to the seat.
The tires are solid PU, wear-resisting. The front-drive wheel could rotate 360 degrees which makes it easy for turning.
Features
- 24V 250W*2 Brushless Motors.
- It has two 6AH Lithium battery.
- Wheelchair weight: 59lbs with battery.
- Maximum Speed: 3.72 mph/h.
- Weight Capacity: 286lbs.
Electric Wheelchairs for UK Buying Guide
Some occurrences are inevitable in life. Losing one’s ability to walk is one of those occurrences, and that shouldn’t be the end of life. Some lose their body functionality to illness, old age accident or natural complications and depending on life aid could be the temporary or the only option.
One of the life aids is a wheelchair. One would think with a wheelchair, life is more straightforward for a disabled person but waits until you hear their experience with some of these wheelchairs. I am not oblivious of the struggles being faced by disabled people with wheelchairs having worked in a hospital. Some cause body pain to the user; some cannot be folded and fit in a car trunk; some are just too complicated to use. These do not, in any way, aid life.
The best I can do to support is to review wheelchairs and come out with the best wheelchairs UK users can pick off the net. Therefore, this objective article analyses some reputable electric wheelchairs with life-aiding functions such as lift, track, adjustable, toilet function. Their strengths and weaknesses and what to look out for before you make your selection and I believe it will put an end to the bad experience you might have had with wheelchairs in the past.
A wheelchair is not a thing to buy just because it has excellent features. It’s not a cloth that one picks for its appeal but a life-saving good that must be selected based on how it can facilitate the life of the user. While exploring wheelchairs brands, I came across a thousand and one wheelchairs that look good with the significant peculiarities and innovations. Still, I had to turn many of them down before coming down to the listed ten. I have come up with six buying guides that can assist you in choosing your wheelchair or for your loved ones. These tips are relevant to users’ safety.
Body Size, Shape, and Build.
A determining factor in buying a wheelchair that must not be tampered with is the physical build of the user. The age, gender, body weight, height of the user must be considered. Is the user a child or an adult? A reputable vendor will ask you these questions, but it’s better to know for yourself, especially if you are buying online. It is crucial to have a consultation with mobility specialists for an evaluation to ascertain which options are most viable and logical.
Ease of Use
A wheelchair should not be complicated to use either with the help of a caregiver or by the user. It should be easily folded and not be too complicated to assemble. Before picking one, read and sieve reviews from verified buyers and be sure you’re buying an adjustable chair.
Features of the Wheelchair
What are the sizes and dimension? Does it come with adjustable seats? Or maybe with a lift, does it have an adequate arm and footrests? Are the wheels durable? Can I store and transport the chair with ease? Does it come with a toilet function, especially if the user is an older person? Be sure if the features suit the need of the user in general? These and many more personal question should be answered before making a choice.
The Underlying Diagnoses and Medical Needs
No one in his right senses wakes up one day and decide to use a wheelchair. Old age effected my father’s need of one while an accident induced my friend’s. People are on wheelchairs for several reasons. The reason a person is on the wheelchair must be considered before making a wheelchair choice. The need for a paralyzed individual is different from a temporary user who broke a bone or two.
Lifestyle and habits
What will you or the user be doing in the chair? Just moving around when necessary, sitting alone or there are specific tasks in mind? The answer will determine a suitable wheelchair. It may be that what you need is a transportation wheel from one place to another and not a wheelchair that supports all life’s activities and vice versa. Another thing to look out for is the wheelchair’s compatibility for air travelling; should the user be one that travels by air.
The lay of the land
How is the terrain of where the user will be using the wheelchair? Will the wheelchair be used at home alone or beyond? The surface of the places the wheelchair will be used determines the wheelchair variances like shocks and wheel.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
Can I get a grant for a wheelchair or from NHS?
Ask your GP, physiotherapist or hospital personnel to refer you for an evaluation to the nearest wheelchair service. Before you can get an NHS wheelchair, you will need to do this.
If you need a wheelchair and if so, what kind, the local wheelchair service will determine.
Maybe you will be able to get a voucher. This helps you to pay for the privilege of a wheelchair of a different kind.
What is a freewheel lever, and how do I use it?
When engaged, freewheel levers allow your mobile device to be pushed. If the need for the user to be made arises, it can be put into freewheel mode from an electronic way.
Can I use my wheelchair in the rain/snow/water?
Prolonged direct exposure to water can lead to malfunctioning. Water causes electrical elements to erode and the unit’s frame to rust. This can also affect your product’s warranty.
Can I buy used wheelchair for sale?
You can buy a used electric wheelchair on the internet. Buying used wheelchairs is not as difficult as you might think. There are different classes of used wheelchairs. Some are obtained as donations and some have been used by a disabled person. If you want to buy a used wheelchair, check out what they are used for. If the types of equipment they are fitted with are wheelchair specific, then that means they are more expensive to buy. If you find one, it might be a good deal. If you want to try before you buy, go to a Gumtree or eBay UK.
Conclusion
You might be like me, you might have bought several wheelchairs for yourself, or a loved that didn’t live to its name and you are overwhelmed. The time of beating yourself over has ended as the wheelchairs above have been tested, and the feedback from users I consulted are great.
The list of the wheelchairs to be reviewed are meant to be as long as possible, but I took my time to consider top factors like usability, dissembling rate, price, wheel types, features, the pros, battery power. These considered factors reduced the long list of wheelchairs to ten. These ten brands scored higher points under each aspect, and I wasn’t disappointed when I got one for my dad. It’s been three years, and no issue whatsoever has been recorded.
For recommendation, considering the price, I’ll go for DriveDevilbiss Drive Lightweight Dual Wheel PowerStroll as it has the lowest price and the fact that it made a list having considered those essential factors make it a worth buying chair. A moderate choice for me will be AIR PUMP Lightweight Folding Electric Wheelchair is generous to me as it surpasses my brake standard and can travel to an impressive 20Km, has an intelligent electromagnetic brake to ensure passenger safety, can be used manually and electronically.
FanYu Mobility Scooter might be the most expensive on the list, but it’s also the most expansive with its unrivalled features. It is a multipurpose chair that can be used as a mobility scooter, stretcher, manual wheelchair, power wheelchair, lifting devices, and mobility stair climbers for manual wheelchairs. Its battery lasts longer than most wheelchairs’
