Folding electric wheelchair are less heavy than traditional wheelchairs and mobility scooters. These wheelchair models are designed for portability and convenience in mind for users on the go.
We have reviewed 9 folding power wheelchairs and here is our list of the top 3 power chairs you should consider.
Many consumers are purchasing these convenient lightweight mobility devices for travel. Some models are sturdy and durable enough for everyday use yet light enough to be highly portable and safe for airline travel or taken on a cruise ship.
Here is how we selected the 3 best folding power wheelchairs:
Expert Reviewers: 2
Products Considered: 9
Hours of Research: 15 hours
Products Reviewed: 3
Updated: January 19, 2023
Check out the Best 3 Folding Power Wheelchairs and our reviews below for each one. Learn more about our top picks, features, pros & cons, specs, prices, and if you should buy it.
EWheels EW-M45 Power Wheelchair
PROS
- Ships assembled
- Lightweight weights 58 lbs with the batteries
- weighs 50 lbs without the batteries
- Ideal for travel
- 12.5" solid rear tires
- Impressive weight capacity of 400 lbs
- Up to 35 Miles per charge
- Reliable and well-built
- Colors: Silver; Orange & Black; and Black
- Airline Approved battery
- FDA Cleared Medical Device
- 3-year warranty
CONS
- Not ideal for petite or small frame users
EW-M45 is a lightweight folding power wheelchair by EWheels Medical. It's compact, portable for travel, and easy to transport.
FEATURES
- 400 lbs. weight capacity!
- Weight w/batteries: 58.4 lbs.
- Weight w/o batteries: 50 lbs.
- Available in three colors: Orange & Black; Black and Silver
- Folded size 23” x 13” x 31”
- Unfolded Size 38” x 23” x 37”
- The joystick can be mounted on left or right
- Intelligent Electromagnetic Brake
- Roomy 19” Wide Seat
- FDA Approved
- No assembly required
- Airline and TSA Approved
- Removable batteries
- Assembled in the USA
KEY SPECS
- Turning Radius: 31.00"
- Top Speed: 3.70 mph
- Battery Charge Distance: 15.50 miles
- Two 12V/6AH Lithium Batteries
- Two 180W Brushless Motors
Built with extremely durable construction, and two powerful motors, EW-M45 should be on your list of power chairs to consider. Fold it in the trunk for easy transport and go for an adventure with 12.5" solid rear tires and the longest driving range of any other models we have reviewed.
It's packed with features and specs not found on similar models, EW-M45 is an excellent choice for a foldable power wheelchair. No wonder why its a popular model and a top seller for 2022.
WHILL Model Fi
PROS
- Frame folds in seconds
- Weighs just 58.9 lbs. with battery and 52.9 lbs. without the battery
- Ideal for travel
- 5 color options
- Smart key to lock and unlock the device remotely
- Powerful motor and front omni wheels
- Reliable and built very well
- FDA Approved
- TSA and Airline Approved battery
- Remote capability with WHILL smartphone app
- Named CES 2022 Best of Innovation Award Winner
CONS
- May not be suitable for non-tech savvy users
The perfect travel power chair has arrived. The WHILL Model Fi is a lightweight, foldable electric wheelchair that weighs 58.9 lbs and has a weight capacity of up to 250 lbs.
FEATURES
- Frame folds in seconds
- 30.7" Turning Radius
- Up to 12.4 mile range on full charge
- Weighs just 58.9 lbs. with battery and 52.9 lbs. without the battery
- Safely climbs up to 10° inclines
- 5 Color Options
KEY SPECS
- Drive Range: 12.40 miles
- Top Speed: 3.70 mph
- Heaviest Piece: 58.9 lbs.
- Turning Radius: 30.00"
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs.
- Weight: 58.9 lbs.
Learn more about WHILL Model Fi.
The Model Fi comes loaded with features, including a remote key lock, an interchangeable controller, and an adjustable max speed for added comfort and safety.
WHILL Model F is a foldable electric wheelchair that is designed to be used by anyone, including active seniors and adults using their smart phones as well as people with mobility issues who have difficulty walking.
The WHILL Model Fi is our number one choice for a great folding power chair. It's packed with impressive specs, features and new technologies which makes it the perfect travel folding power wheelchair on the market today.
Vive Health Power Wheelchair
PROS
- Powerful, dual-motor wheelchair
- Affordable and offers great value for the price
- Folds in seconds for traveling
- Adjustable armrests and footrest
- Ideal for travel
- Neutral or manual mode
- Ship fully assembled
- Limited Three-Year Guarantee
CONS
- Not an FDA Approved Medical device
- Only has a maximum driving range of 6.2 miles per charge
- Low user weight capacity of 260 lbs compared to similar models
- May be too heavy to lift for most users
Stylish, affordable and exceptionally durable, Vive Health Power Wheelchair smoothly navigates most surfaces with powerful dual motors, a universal joystick controller and large, flat-free tires. It weighs 67.8 lbs with a weight capacity of 260 lbs.
FEATURES
- Powerful, dual-motor wheelchair
- Folds in seconds for traveling
- Intuitive joystick with speed controls
- Thick padded seat cushion with adjustable armrests
- Adjustable armrests and footrest
- Includes battery and charging cable
- Neutral or manual mode
- TSA approved and ideal for air travel
- Ship fully assembled
- Limited Three-Year Guarantee
Learn more about Vive Health Power Wheelchair.
KEY SPECS
- Top Speed: 3.70 mph
- Maximum Drive Range Per Charge: 6.2 miles
- Weight Capacity: 260 lbs.
- Total Weight: 67.8 lbs
WHAT ARE FOLDING POWER CHAIRS?
Folding power chairs are a type of wheelchairs that may be folded into the back of the trunk or your SUV and can be used for travel and easy transport. Portable and compact, folding power chairs can be stored anywhere and do not require additional storage. Simply put it away in your closet or garage.
PERFECT FOR TRAVEL
Folding electric wheelchairs are perfect for travel. Simply fold in the back of your trunk or SUV for easy transport. Take a vacation on a cruise ship and even fly domestic or abroad with your folding power chair. Some of the latest folding power wheelchairs are TSA and airline approved due to their spill proof and flame proof batteries.
SHOP FOR FOLDING ELECTRIC WHEELCHAIRS
BENEFITS OF FOLDING ELECTRIC WHEELCHAIR
Here are some of the benefits of lightweight power wheelchairs:
- Less heavy than traditional wheelchairs and mobility scooters
- More compact than mobility scooters
- Perfect for travel and users on the go
- Easy storage. No need to purchase separate storage area.
- Compact and portable. Easy to place in and remove from a trunk or SUV.
- No additional equipment. No costly vehicle adaptations such as ramps or hoists or lifts are needed.
BUYING A FOLDING POWER WHEELCHAIR
When purchasing a folding power wheelchair, consider where you will be using it the most, indoors or outdoors, what features you require, specification considerations like folding measurements, total weigh and weight capacity, and what is your budget. Buying the right folding power wheelchair in 2022 that best fits your needs and lifestyle, will provide you with comfort and mobility for your daily activities.
Answering the following questions will help you make an informed decision before buying a folding power wheelchair.
- Do you plan to use a folding power wheelchair outdoors, indoors or both?
- Will you be transporting your wheelchair in cars, airplanes or cruise ships?
- What is the maximum weight capacity and wheelchair weight preferred?
- What top speeds will you need the wheelchair to be able to reach?
- Do you need special seating options for extra comfort?
- What is your budget?
FEATURES
Here are some of the main key features of a folding power wheelchairs:
- Portability – Perfect for travel, users on the go and great for storage
- Durability – Built with high-quality materials and durable of getting you around to move freely with no problems.
- Comfort – Folding power wheelchairs are designed for comfort and convenience in mind.
- Maneuverability – Look at specifications of turning radius to determine the maneuverability. Your chair should be maneuverable in helping you run errands, go shopping, visiting the park, and going to see your family or friends.
COST
The average price for a new folding power wheelchair is $1,500 to $3,900. The price depends on the size, model type, weight capacity, and features. Higher-end and more expensive models will have more features, technology, and customized options.
CONCLUSION
It is always a good idea to consider your needs and how your new folding electric wheelchair will be able to improve your lifestyle. Shop around and do your research first when buying. Determine your exact wheelchair folding measurements and other required specifications. Take into consideration the above top features and tips when making your decision about what type to purchase.
Need help deciding? Speak to a product specialist today at 1-800-711-1940 or browse our selection online.