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Seniors Mobility AidsWheelchairs

Top 10 Foldable Power Wheelchairs for Safe Travel (Reviews)

Written by Dayna C
Last Updated :

Traditional wheelchairs require significant upper body strength to propel yourself or a caregiver to push you around. That limits your mobility and makes it hard to travel outdoors in a wheelchair.

Moreover, if you can’t move your arms much, manual wheelchairs become hard to use. Not to mention that unfoldable wheelchairs are too heavy for transportation.

Here’s where you might start to consider trying electric wheelchair models that fold so that you can travel in your wheelchair wherever and whenever you want.

Nowadays, power chairs come with a wide variety of features and assortments to suit everybody’s needs, improve quality of life, and make it easy to reach your destination fast.

However, this variety of features might overwhelm you when it comes to choosing the right motorized wheelchair.

That’s why we will give you an insight into some of the best foldable power wheelchairs, according to customer reviews, experts’ opinions, sales data, and users’ experience.

READ MORE: Best Wheelchair for Amputees

This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

Best Foldable Power Wheelchair Top Picks at a Glance

Don’t have time? Here is a quick comparison of our favorites!

Winner!
Preview
Pride Jazzy Passport Power Chair
Top Benefit
TSA and FAA Approved
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Budget Choice
Preview
Drive Medical Cirrus Plus Power Wheelchair
Top Benefit
Seat belt and electromagnetic brakes for safety
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Safety Choice
Preview
EWheels Folding Power Electric Wheelchair with Storage Bag EW-M45 Lightweight Long Range Up to 15.5 Mile Range Black
Top Benefit
With joystick controller and back storage pocket
Check Latest Price

10 Best Folding Power Wheelchairs with Reviews

Motorized wheelchairs give you greater independence and speed, but they aren’t the most affordable chairs.

As such, it’s important to think everything through and ensure that you’re getting a type of wheelchair that suits your specific needs.

Think about what you expect from your wheelchair and where you’ll use it. Read the description carefully and consider the measurements before purchasing.

Now, let’s see the very best power wheelchairs that will get you anywhere you want in a breeze.

1. TOP CHOICE: Pride Jazzy Passport Power Chair

Pride Jazzy Passport Power Chair

If you are looking for airline-approved foldable wheelchairs, look no further than Pride Mobility’s foldable power chairs.

The Jazzy Power Chair is easy to transport because it folds in seconds in a few steps. When folded, it isn’t bigger than a small suitcase, and you can fit it in your vehicle, trunk, or closet with no problems.

Physical Attributes

Caregivers appreciate that they can roll the Jazzy Power Chair when folded. You can carry it to airports, hospitals, and hotels without worrying about how it will fit through doorways.

Moreover, the lithium-ion battery is removable, which makes this model great for people in wheelchairs who love to travel.

This model offers a turning radius of 24.5 inches, making it great for getting by in crowded places or maneuvering around obstacles.

You’ve got a dual braking system so you can go up slopes, inclines, or ramps without fearing for your safety.

The foam seat cushion ensures your comfort, while the large footrests give your feet plenty of space for convenience.

Also, the Pride Jazzy Power Chair has numerous storage options for your belongings, such as a backseat pocket and an under-seat mesh bag.

You also get a mesh cup holder to keep your drinks close and prevent slipping while on the go. The lap seat belt adds another layer of security, so you don’t have to worry about falling.

If you fly often, you can also get a Jazzy model with a lithium-ion battery safe for flights.

Pride Jazzy Passport Power Chair

TRY CHECKING: Grit Freedom Chair Cost

Measurements and Size Options

At quite an affordable price, this model truly has everything a person needs! But you have to remove the battery before you fold the chair, and the battery weighs 7 pounds, so it’s a lighter task. 

We also like Pride Mobility’s Jazzy Passport, which has a lightweight but durable aluminum frame and weighs only 54 pounds without the battery. It also has an astonishing weight capacity of 250 pounds!

Pride Jazzy Power Chair measures about 31” x 16” x 23.5” when folded, while its overall measurement is 40″ x 23.5″.

Pride Jazzy Passport Power Chair

Benefits & Drawbacks of Pride Jazzy Passport Power Chair

BenefitsDrawbacks
LightweightBattery can’t last as long as some other models
3.6 mph speedModerate weight capacity
Numerous storage pockets
Safe to travel battery
TSA and FAA Approved
Minimal Assembly Required

How it Compares to Others

The maximum speed is 3.6 mph, and you can travel up to 9.6 miles per battery charge. It’s not as much as other models, but the 12-inch rear tires give you plenty of traction on different surfaces.

Expert Tips

We also like that this power chair meets TSA and FAA requirements for personal mobility devices for traveling.

Still, the manufacturer recommends that you check with your airport to ensure you meet the travel requirements.

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READ MORE: Evolt Power Wheelchair

2. BUDGET CHOICE: Cirrus Plus Power Wheelchair

Cirrus power chair

Drive Medical is one of the leading companies on the market, offering a wide variety of products for adults, seniors, and people with disabilities.

Unsurprisingly, their Cirrus Plus EC folding chair makes the list of the best foldable power wheelchairs. This wheelchair has some fantastic features that make it stand out in a crowd.

Physical Attributes

This wheelchair can go up to 15 miles without recharging for starters and can reach a remarkable speed of 5 mph. That’s impressive when compared to other travel power wheelchairs.

Moreover, the chair has padded upholstery, padded armrests, and a foam seat cushion for maximum comfort and a smooth ride for the rider.

The armrests are also adjustable and removable for convenience, while the swing-away footrests ensure the chair can be folded into a compact shape. You may want to check out the guide on how to fold the wheelchair if you need help folding it.

It also boasts 8-inch front wheels, 12.5-inch rear wheels for optimum traction, and electromagnetic brakes. Thus, you don’t have to worry about stopping on rocky paths and rough terrain.

This electric power wheelchair is also made of carbon steel for maximum durability and to prevent chipping/cracking when you use public transportation.

Moreover, Drive Medical’s product has a power failure alarm and a lifetime warranty on the frame. It also has heel loops, calf straps, and wheel locks for added safety.

Measurements and Size Options

Drive Medical’s Cirrus Plus wheelchair measures 42.5″ x 24″ – 28″ and weighs 146 lbs. It features a double cross frame for an increased weight capacity of up to 400 pounds.

Benefits & Drawbacks of Cirrus Power Wheelchair

BenefitsDrawbacks
AffordableA bit heavier than other models we’ve mentioned
Durable battery, 400 lbs capacity
Seat belt and electromagnetic brakes for safety
Padded back upholstery with storage pouch and cushioned seat
Extremely comfortable and has a pretty design

How it Compares to Others

The most important part is the programmable controller, which ensures you can move the chair in whatever direction. The joystick’s length can be adjusted to your individual needs.

Expert Tips

It’s not among the most lightweight power wheelchairs, with a base weight of 90 pounds, but it’s still portable and has a pouch for storing personal items under the seat.

For this budget, this is probably the best wheelchair you can find, and it’s a low-maintenance one!

Drive Medical Cirrus Plus Power Wheelchair
2 Reviews
Drive Medical Cirrus Plus Power Wheelchair
  • Foldable, lightweight frame makes portability and transportation easy and convenient
  • Integrated, programmable pg controller
  • Adjustable height flip back arms and detachable arms
  • Attractive carbon steel frame with silver vein finish
  • Top Speed: 5 mph, Maximum Range: 15 miles, Turning Radius: 35 inches, Climbing Angle: 6 degree, Ground Clearance: 4 inches

3. SAFETY CHOICE: EWheels Folding Power Electric Wheelchair

EWheels Folding Power Electric Wheelchair with Storage Bag EW-M45 Lightweight Long Range Up to 15.5 Mile Range Black

EWheels has an excellent folding wheelchair with impressive features and a stylish design that won’t disappoint if you’re looking for portable power wheelchairs.

Physical Attributes

Safety features are important if you plan on using the wheelchair outside. That’s why the EW-M45 boats an intelligent electromagnetic brake to give you extra security on uneven terrains.

As such, EW-M45 makes a great travel power wheelchair for people who are always active and love to stay on the road. The joystick controller makes it easy to control the chair.

When it comes to speed, this model is pretty standard and has a maximum speed of 3.7 mph. Still, it’s going to get you to your destination faster than a traditional manual wheelchair.

Moreover, the EW-M45 has a 19-inch-wide seat with a specialty foam design for optimum comfort no matter how long you sit there.

We also like that EWheels back seat pocket for storing items while you’re on the road. You can keep your personal effects close by in case you need to use them.

More importantly, Ew-M45 is airline-approved, so you should go through airport security quickly. The large wheels also allow caregivers to push the chair if it’s raining and they have to shut off the power.

However, it’s quite expensive, and some customers note that they had difficulties removing the batteries when traveling by plane.

Measurements and Size Options

EW-M45 weighs only 59 pounds and folds so that you can carry it with you no matter where you’re going. The folded dimensions are 23″ x 13″ x 31,” and it’s easy to fold/unfold the chair in a few steps.

Even though this model weighs only about 59lbs, its maximum weight capacity is 400 pounds. This is over 100 lbs more than most standard models.

EWheels Folding Power Electric Wheelchair with Storage Bag EW-M45 Lightweight Long Range Up to 15.5 Mile Range Black

Benefits & Drawbacks of EWheels Folding Power Electric Wheelchair

BenefitsDrawbacks
Great battery lifeExpensive
With joystick controller and back storage pocket
Great customer service
Lightweight design
Foam seat and large foot platform
Warranty and technical support
Easy assembly/disassembly
Maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds
15 miles of travel range, ideal for travel– no need for vehicle lifts or disassembling a scooter

How it Compares to Others

It has a turning radius of 31″, large 12-inch rear wheels, and 8″ front wheels to ensure maximum smooth performance on different terrains, both indoors and outdoors.

But what makes this model stand out is its astonishing travel range. The two 12V lithium-ion batteries can last up to 15.5 miles without needing to be recharged!

Expert Tips

In case of problems, you can also reach to EWheels customer support. They’ve got dedicated technical support to answer questions and resolve common problems.

You also get a warranty on the frame, electric components, and battery, making this a truly luxurious wheelchair.

EWheels Folding Power Electric Wheelchair with Storage Bag EW-M45 Lightweight Long Range Up to 15.5 Mile Range Black
  • EWheels Folding Power Electric Wheelchair with Storage Bag EW-M45 Lightweight Long Range Up to 15.5 Mile Range Black

4. Porto Mobility Ranger D09 Lightweight Foldable

Porto Mobility Ranger D09 Lightweight

Porto Mobility Ranger is a professionally designed and well-crafted frame of the Next Generation Lightweight and Foldable Electric Power Wheelchairs.

Physical Attributes

It is made with high-quality lithium-ion batteries filled with the most advanced cell technology available. It provides a significant 20-mile increase in range and is certainly approved by airlines. It’s convenient to charge batteries without having to take your chair off the board.

Measurements and Size Options

Porto Mobility Ranger wheelchair measurement is about 34″ x 23″ x 36″ 50 lbs with weight capacity of 396 lbs.

Benefits & Drawbacks of Porto Mobility Ranger D09 Lightweight Foldable

BenefitsDrawbacks
LightweightFootrest is not adjustable
Sturdy
Small turning radius

How it Compares to Others

It has a small turning radius of about 32 inches. It moves effortlessly in narrow spaces, making it great for indoor use while fitting through any door. It’s smooth, with no dead spots and great steering.

Expert Tips

If you need assistance, technicians can come to your residence at a moment’s notice. Customer service is also available even when you’re overseas.

Porto Mobility 2024 Ranger Discovery Lightweight Foldable Weatherproof Exclusive Electric Wheelchair, Portable, Brushless Powerful Motors, Dual Battery, All Terrain (Silver, Standard)
  • LIGHTWEIGHT & HEAVY DUTY: This Award Winning Portable Power Wheelchair folds in 3 seconds. It’s Heavy Duty, Super Lightweight and Compact - only 13” high when folded, can fit in compact car trunks.Both Armrest raise up and footrest fold up flush for easy entry and exit This top of the line Power Wheelchair With A 400 Lb Weight Capacity And Only Weighs 50 lbs. High Strength Aircraft Quality Aluminum Alloy. Weather-resistant finish, driving the Ranger outside is convenient.
  • SIDE BATTERIES: Slide in Dual Side Batteries you can pop out quickly if needed when transporting, makes the chair lighter because 8 lbs matter. Lithium -Ion, Safe, Dry, filled up with the highest quality cells. Provides extra distance up to 20 miles.You could go to Amusement Parks , drive all day long and still have much battery left to use.Airline Approved. Controller set expertly contact us if the joystick is too sensitive we can loan you programmer to slow it down for easier or slower use.
  • POWERFUL MOTOR & STURDY: World Class real 250W Brushless Dual motors enormous torque & power and will challenge any road type , climb up steep hills.Ranger D09 with Posi-traction features different terrains are easy and almost effortless.Will smoothly ride through grass, gravel, mud, dirt, snow and even some sandy surface.electromagnetic brake to ensure safety.RANGER D09 includes: 1 x Electric Wheelchair 1 x 360 Degree Joystick 2 x Lithium 1 x Travel Case 1 x Charger 1 x Tool Kit 1 x Storage Bag
  • SMALL TURNING RADIUS Only 32 inches- Gets around tight areas easily perfect for indoor use, will fit through any door. its responsive, No dead spots - excellent steering.the ability to go in ALL Directions with the NEW 360 degree Joystick, not only can you drive your Ranger Wheelchair with just one finger, you can also navigate your Ranger Power Chair into tight spaces that require sensitive turning abilities! Literally turns on a dime.Joystick can be operated by a Caregiver with a bracket.
  • Fully Assembled: Power Chair is one of a very rare category you need a professional and anytime-ready Customer service, backing you up even when you are overseas. No need to worry about who or where would service. Up on a request, We can send you professional technicians to your house when you need service. Our company mission constitutes that our customers are privileged and will be treated specially. Our Warranty: 3 year for Frame, 1 Year for Motor and Controller and the Batteries

5. Sentire Med Forza FCX Deluxe Power Wheelchair

Sentire Med Forza FCX Deluxe Fold

The Forza FCX folds without disassembly. Finding a lightweight, solid, and strong electric wheelchair is not simple, but Sentire Forza FCX has done it with such a trustworthy model.

Physical Attributes

The Forza FCX is designed for comfort and functionality. Its convenient folding feature and lightweight aluminum body make it easy to store and travel.

Its durable front casters and forks can take a beating, whether the ground is soft or hard or whether you’re bearing a lot of weight.

Measurements and Size Options

The Forza FCX product measures 40″ W x 28″ L x 38″ H and can support up to 163kg or 360 lbs.

Benefits & Drawbacks of Sentire Med Forza FCX Deluxe Power Wheelchair

BenefitsDrawbacks
Long lasting lithium batteriesNot recommended for tight spaces
Adjustable backrest heightDifficult to control
Lightweight

How it Compares to Others

With two 250-watt motors, this durable automobile offers a tough ride. The cord can be detached and conveniently placed on the right or left side to be used as needed.

Expert Tips

Joystick is designed for use by right-handed individuals. Contact their customer service if you require a joystick that has been custom-built for left-handed use.

Sentire Med Deluxe Electric Wheelchair,600 W Peak Rapid Power Motor, Dual Battery, Up to 25 Miles - Lightweight Foldable, Compact and Portable - Motorized Mobility for Travel and All Terrain Use 2024
305 Reviews
Sentire Med Deluxe Electric Wheelchair,600 W Peak Rapid Power Motor, Dual Battery, Up to 25 Miles - Lightweight Foldable, Compact and Portable - Motorized Mobility for Travel and All Terrain Use 2024
  • ✔ PORTABLE; Weighing a modest 67 lbs when loaded with two batteries, this ultra lightweight electric wheelchair is designed to go wherever the adventure takes you; What’s more, our clever motorized folding power chair features a smart folding design for easier transport; This portable wheelchair lightweight folding solution also features 4 suspension comfy springs for a smooth ride,foldable padded footrest and armrests for extra comfort, compact for trunk space
  • ✔ POWER TO MOVE; Our all terrain wheelchair features a generous five inch ground clearance, allowing you to explore new destinations and go further with your travel wheelchair; With two 300 W peak brushless motors and a sharp turning radius, this premium folding wheelchair is built to go the distance
  • ✔ STRONG; This electric wheelchair from Sentire Med features a rock solid design with a lightweight durable aluminum frame; Our electric wheelchairs for adults feature anti tip wheels and 4 comfort suspension springs designed for all terrain ; When you need a lightweight folding wheelchair that will hold up under any conditions, choose Sentire Med
  • ✔ QUALITY; Each portable wheelchair has undergone stringent quality inspection and hundreds of hours of development with leading mobility experts; Our power wheelchair is crafted to the highest standards; The Sentire Med promise is this; if we wouldn’t use this motorized wheelchair ourselves, we won’t sell it
  • ✔EVERYTHING INCLUDED; Our foldable wheelchair comes with everything you need; This wheelchair for adults includes 2 TSA flight approved batteries, fast charger, a cup holder, cane hook as well as a side storage bag; Better still, Sentire Med’s lightweight electric wheelchair also comes with a backrest pocket and travel bag. You also get our A+ customer service with your purchase.

6. Drive Medical Blue Streak Wheelchair

Drive Medical Blue Streak Wheelchair with Flip Back Desk Arms

Blue Streak wheelchairs by Drive Medical are equipped with cutting-edge design elements like premium swing-away leg rests and detachable desk arms that fold back for easy transport and greater mobility.

Physical Attributes

The 18-inch-thick padded seat is ergonomically designed for comfort, making it easy and pleasurable to move around independently. Solid rubber tires mounted on composite wheels provide a ride with a constantly smooth feel.

Measurements and Size Options

Drive Medical Blue wheelchair measurement is 36 x 24 x 42 inches; 41.25 pounds.

Benefits & Drawbacks of Drive Medical Blue Streak Wheelchair

BenefitsDrawbacks
Premium designNot sturdy enough for long term use
Not sturdy enough for long-term useOthers find “clicking” noise
Transport and storage

How it Compares to Others

The push-to-lock mechanism provides an extra measure of safety.

Expert Tips

Check with your physician if the wheelchair suits your condition better.

Drive Medical Blue Streak Ultra-Lightweight Wheelchair With Flip-Backs Arms & Swing-Away Footrests
  • Lightweight Folding Wheelchair: These cutting-edge wheelchairs for adults and seniors make independent mobility enjoyable via specialized features; just 41 pounds, the portable wheelchair folds to a compact 12.5-inch width for transport or storage
  • Durable Design: This transport wheelchair features durable tires enhanced with push-to-lock functionality for added safety; model features a 18-inch seat, swing-away footrests, and flip-back desk arms
  • Smooth, Stable Ride: Easy to push with solid yet lightweight wheels, this single axle wheelchair is easy to maneuver and fits through most doorways
  • Flipback Armrests & Swing Away Footrests: Lightweight wheelchair features padded “desk” style arms that make it easier to sit at a desk or table and flip back for transfer; swing-away footrests are removable
  • Dimensions: Overall: 42 inches in length x 24 inches wide x 36 inches in height; closed: 12.5 inches wide; seat: 16 inches depth x 18 inches wide; armrest: 8 inches in height; weight capacity: 250 lbs

7. Medline Lightweight & User-Friendly Wheelchair

Medline - MDS806550E Lightweight & User-Friendly Wheelchair With Flip-Back

The Medline Smartly Designed Wheelchair is light and easy to handle, yet it can also hold adults weighing up to 300 pounds.

Physical Attributes

For customers who need to use the desk on the go, it’s a great option that provides flip-back desk arms with leg rest extensions for more comfort. The adjustable backrest glides up and down for tailored support.

Measurements and Size Options

Medline wheelchair dimensions are 31.5 x 25.5 x 36.5 inches; 34 pounds.

Benefits & Drawbacks of Medline Smartly Designed Wheelchair

BenefitsDrawbacks
Breathable nylon upholsteryNot sturdy for long-term use
Flip-back, desk-length arms
Adjustable

How it Compares to Others

The adjustable backrest allows customers to configure the level of support. Three seat widths are available: 16, 18, and 20 inches.

Expert Tips

Keep the seat width proportional to the user’s weight and size. 

Medline Lightweight Wheelchair for Adults With Swing-Back, Desk-Length Arms, Elevating Leg Rests; 18W" x 16"D Seat
  • UNMATCHED COMFORT: This user-friendly folding wheelchair for seniors and adults features a comfortable, height-adjustable seat (from 18” to 20” H); chair weighs 34 lbs., with a 300 lb. weight capacity
  • STURDY AND DURABLE: Experience effortless maneuverability with this lightweight wheelchair for indoor/outdoor use; durable frame ensures stability and reliability for navigating various terrains
  • USER-FRIENDLY: Swing-back, desk-length arms for easier lateral transfer and access to tables and desks; elevating leg rests for greater comfort
  • HIGH-QUALITY MATERIALS: The wheelchair features a breathable nylon upholstery that is soft to the touch and easy to clean
  • DIMENSIONS: 30”L x 25.5/27.5”W x 38”H (assembled)/30”L x 10.5”W x 38”H (folded)

8. Everest & Jennings Traveler L4 Wheelchair

Everest & Jennings Traveler HD Heavy Duty Wheelchair

The Everest & Jennings folding wheelchair is one of the most famous brands in the manual and electric wheelchair industry. E&J now offers a comprehensive array of wheelchair products, ranging from manual to power chairs.

Physical Attributes

The L4 Traveler, a Medicare-approved K0004 wheelchair, is a lightweight, high-strength chair built for both home and rehab use.

Non-marking polyurethane rear tires and precision bearings help to improve the longevity of the wheelchair.

Measurements and Size Options

The product dimensions are 12 x 37 x 32 inches; 31.8 pounds.

Benefits & Drawbacks of Everest & Jennings Traveler L4 Wheelchair

BenefitsDrawbacks
Black nylon upholstryCan be hard to control
Carbon steel frame
Premium adjustability

How it Compares to Others

The seat height and seat back are adjustable to two settings, and the seat is available in three widths (16″, 18″, or 20″).

Expert Tips

See more product features on their official link.

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Everest & Jennings Traveler HD Heavy Duty Wheelchair

9. Featherweight 33 lbs. Power Chair

Featherweight 33 lbs. Power Chair

The Feather Power Chair is very light, weighing only 33 pounds. Below are some additional great details.

Physical Attributes

Feather Power folds down to a small size. It is extremely light, so it can be moved easily, even in cars or other difficult areas.

The speed is about 3.7 miles per hour. With one battery charge, you can drive 13 kilometers! The battery is lithium-ion.

Measurements and Size Options

Product dimensions are 41.73″ x 23.62″ x 35″. The product weight is 33 lbs and can support up to 242.5 lbs.

Featherweight 33 lbs. Power Chair

Benefits & Drawbacks of Father Power Chair

BenefitsDrawbacks
Fits into any car /13-miles rangeNo storage available
Airplane approvedOthers find it unbalanced
Lightweight

How it Compares to Others

This is a better option if you are looking for more portability that is easy to carry indoors and outdoors.

Expert Tips

They offer great customer support if you need assistance with their product.

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10. AirWheel H3S Auto Folding Smart Chair

Airwheel H3T Full Automatic Folding Smart Wheelchair

The Airwheel H3S is a motorized, folding power wheelchair with remote control using a mobile app. Use your mouse to move the smart wheelchair!

Physical Attributes

The H3T/S motorized wheelchair meets any standards for quality care and conforms to ergonomic, comfortable, dependable, and safe care practices.

Its thickened soft cushion is made to help those who sit for long periods of time, and the breathable fabric is easy to clean.

Measurements and Size Options

Product dimensions: 43.3″ x 24.4″ x 38.5″. Item weight: 65 lbs.

Benefits & Drawbacks of AirWheel H3S Auto Folding Smart Chair

BenefitsDrawbacks
Easy to transportCould have been made in better materials
Dual ride modes: Electric mode and manual mode

How it Compares to Others

It is built with excellent precision and high speed – DC brush motor and smart dual-motor design.

Expert Tips

The “Medical Device Database” in Italy and Poland, etc. has approved and registered the Airwheel Electric Wheelchair.

Benefits of Power Wheelchairs

Let’s discuss the pros of power wheelchairs over manual ones. Foldable Power Wheelchair Benefits Electric wheelchairs, also called power chairs, have improved vastly in recent years thanks to advances in science and technology.

But why should you choose an electric foldable wheelchair over a manual one?

A power wheelchair is a mobility device with a joystick that helps users to get around. As such, you don’t have to rely on body strength to push the wheels or have someone with you all the time to do it for you.

Power wheelchairs give you greater independence and make it easy for you to reach a destination without tiring your arms.

What is more, a power wheelchair is great for navigating through tight spaces and ascending/descending hills, rocky terrains, or inclines. It also performs better on rough surfaces at home.

But one of the biggest advantages of folding power chairs is speed. No matter how fit you’re, it’s going to take you forever to travel 10-15 miles in a manual wheelchair.

Depending on the model, power chairs can travel up 4-8 miles per hour, which will shorten the time you need to reach any destination.

If you travel and like to see the world, explore new areas, and have adventures, foldable power wheelchairs will be your favorite companions on your trips.

Motorized chairs are better than mobility scooters, rollators, or other walking aids because they can be used indoors and outdoors.

Travel wheelchairs and transport chairs tend to be less expensive and lighter than full-size electric wheelchairs. But they don’t have the same features and might require a caregiver to move you around.

Power wheelchair manufacturers also give you many customizing options to users and come with extras, such as storage space, cup holders, etc.

Moreover, Medicare covers electric wheelchairs, but you’ll have to check with your doctors and the manufacturer to ensure the wheelchair is eligible.

How to Choose the Best Foldable Power Wheelchairs Today

There are so many electric wheelchair options and brands that you may wonder what features to look for when shopping for a wheelchair.

We are aware that different users demand different accessories/features for the best lightweight foldable power wheelchair.

That’s why we’ll discuss the most common specifications to consider and how to choose the best lightweight folding wheelchairs.

Weight Capacity and Comfort

Power wheelchairs come in different sizes and weight capacities. This might not seem like an important feature at first, but you should pay attention to it.

Overweight or obese adults should look for a chair that can handle their weight and provide enough support. Otherwise, you might end up with a wheelchair that cracks in a couple of months.

Comfort is also essential when you spend the better part of your day in a wheelchair.

The right seat width and seat cushion foam ensure plenty of space for comfort and prevent stiffness and tenseness.

Battery Life

When we’re talking about power wheelchairs, the most important features are the battery and motor power.

If you are using your wheelchair when traveling, it is pretty clear that you need a chair with strong and long-lasting batteries. Otherwise, you’ll have to recharge it every couple of hours.

Even if you’re using your wheelchair around the house, you don’t want it to let you down when you need it the most. The longer the battery life, the better the driving range.

Most power chairs last an average of 10 miles and need to be recharged every eight hours, but some brands can go as far as 20 miles.

Keep in mind that you might have to remove the batteries to fold the chair. Some battery packs aren’t the lightest, so check the battery weight before purchasing and how to maintain them.

Speed

Most power wheelchairs can travel at around 3.6 miles per hour, but some can go as fast as eight miles per hour.

The amount of speed you need depends on the wheelchair’s purpose. If you’re often traveling and need to reach your destination quickly, choose a faster electric wheelchair.

Traction and Brakes

Using power wheelchairs outdoors means you will encounter a wide range of terrains, some uneven, others rocky or slippery. Inside the house, you also have different surfaces.

What you need is a power wheelchair with front-wheel drive, large wheels, and reliable brakes to provide enough traction.

Moreover, larger wheels ensure a smoother ride and make the whole experience more pleasant on outdoor terrains.

Portability

Folding electric wheelchairs are portable by definition. However, some power chairs weigh more than others or don’t fold into a very compact shape.

Always consider the folded dimensions if you’re thinking about flying with your portable wheelchair or have to store it in tight spaces.

Easy to Use

Motorized wheelchairs have programmable controllers which allow you to drive and maneuver with them. But this feature has little meaning if the joystick is hard to use or takes you forever to figure it out.

Accessories

For the ones who appreciate comfort, power wheelchair accessories can mean a lot.

Depending on the model, powered wheelchairs might come with padded armrests, storage pouches, or wheelchair covers/bags. For some, footrests are the number one accessory because the best footrests ensure the rider’s comfort no matter how many hours you spend sitting.

Other accessories include cup holders, strong armrests, lift-up handles, thicker cushions, travel pouches, etc.

Just make sure to double-check which accessories are included, as sometimes you have to order separately.

FAQs

Does Medicare pay for folding power wheelchairs?

Yes. Part B of Medicare covers durable medical equipment (DME) like power wheelchairs. 

How much does a power wheelchair cost?

Power Wheelchair cost varies depending on the brand, functionality and type of quality materials used. Price ranges from $1,500 to $4,000 up to $15,000.

Conclusion

You can’t imagine the changes a new electric wheelchair might bring into your life and how much it can improve your freedom of movement.

We tried to take as honest assessments as possible of each of the products we reviewed in this article, and we believe that they’re the best lightweight folding power wheelchairs.

We hope you’ve found the best one among our foldable power wheelchair reviews.

Our Choice

Now that you’ve gone through our foldable power wheelchair reviews, we will talk about the best pick among these hottest power wheelchairs on the market.

As we mentioned, important features in power wheelchairs are size, weight capacity, types of wheels, and battery life. When we consider all these features, the Pride Jazzy Power Chair is the winner. This model has everything a person can look for in a wheelchair.

It’s lightweight, FAA and TSA-approved, and well-constructed. It has a great turning radius for maneuverability, great battery life, and excellent speed.

Moreover, its dual braking system makes it great for outdoor terrain, and when folded, you can roll it behind you.

Jazzy Power Chair also has excellent customer reviews and boats excellent customer support.

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man in a foldable power wheelchair

What do you think about these top folding electric wheelchair reviews? Have you ever used a motorized chair? Tell us in the comment section!

About Author

Dayna C
Dayna has an incredible passion for helping others and a background as an in-home caregiver for the elderly. She left the field temporarily three years ago to stay at home with her twins, but found that she really missed working with senior citizens. She launched LoAids as a way to help not just her own loved ones and former clients, but ALL seniors live life to the fullest in their golden years.  Follow her on LINKEDIN and TWITTER. Read her LATEST POSTS. Learn more about her HERE.

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