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What is the lightest folding power wheelchair?

Are you wondering what is the lightest folding electric wheelchair? The lightest folding power chair on the market is Journey Air Elite Folding Power Chair.  

It weighs only 26 lbs (29 lbs with the battery), has a weight capacity of 240 lbs and is considered to be one of the lightest folding power chairs in the world. 

Shop for Journey Air Elite Foilding Power Chair - $2,999

There is a growing demand for lightweight fold-up power wheelchairs, particularly among baby boomers and those who are planning to travel in 2023.

Portable and compact folding electric wheelchairs that weigh less than 49 lbs are one of the most popular types of models that consumers are looking to purchase. 

Due to their folding design, these wheelchairs are easy to transport, making it simple for users to take them on trips or store them in tight spaces.

Other Comparable Lightweight Folding Models: 

  1. Journey Air Folding Power Chair - 37 lbs ($1,999)
  2. Pride Jazzy Carbon Power Wheelchair - 43 lbs ($2,499)
  3. Zoomer Power Folding Chair - 49 lbs ($2,899)
  4. Travel Buggy DASH Ultra-Lite Power Chair - 39 lbs ($2,199)
  5. Travel Buggy CITY 2 PLUS - Heaviest piece 40 lbs ($2,799)

 Prices Updated: July 18, 2023

Journey Air Elite FEATURES AND SPECS

  • One of the lightest folding power wheelchairs on the market 
  • Approved for airline travel 
  • Up to 240 lbs weight capacity
  • Ride up to 10 miles on one single charge with a lithium-ion battery
  • Quick and easy folding
  • Joystick can be mounted on left or right side
  • Can travel on grass, carpet, gravel, dirt and more
  • Large rear 10.5" flat-free tires

Key Specs

Total Weight: 29 lbs 
Weight without battery:  26 lbs
Folding size:  28.3” L x 29” W x 11.4” H 
Weight capacity: 240 lbs
Speed: 2.8 mph
Drive Range: 9.3 miles
Motor: Dual motors (24V, 150W)
Battery: Lithium-ion (24V, 10Ah)

 PROS

  • Ideal for indoor and outdoor use 
  • Compact, portable and has a long driving range of 9.3 miles
  • Airline-approved and designed for travel
  • The lightest power chair on the market right now

 CONS

  • Not designed for all-day use 
  • Not designed to go over rough terrain

Journey Air Elite Folding Power Chair is perfect for shopping, getting around the neighborhood, or getting your errands done. It's portable, and can be stored in the back of any truck, SUV, or closet for storage.

If you are looking for the lightest folding power chair on the market, Air Elite is a great choice!

Order your own Journey Air Elite Folding Power Chair online today or give us a call at 1-800-711-1940. Our phone agents are standing by to answer any questions you may have.  

 

Benefits of Lightweight Folding Power Chairs

  • Portability: These types of electric wheelchairs are easy to transport, making it simple for users to take them on trips or store them in tight spaces.

  • Convenience: They can be quickly and easily folded and unfolded with any disassembly. 

  • Weight: The lightweight aspect of these wheelchairs makes them easier to carry and lift, reducing the physical strain on the user or caregiver.

  • Versatility: They are designed to navigate various surfaces and environments, including home, office, outdoor settings, and public transportation.

  • Improved Quality of Life: By offering increased mobility and independence, lightweight folding power wheelchairs can significantly improve the quality of life for users, enabling them to engage in activities and social events they might otherwise be unable to attend.

  • Safety: Most power wheelchairs come equipped with safety features like anti-tip wheels, seat belts, and braking systems, providing users with an added layer of security.

  • Better Battery: Modern power wheelchairs with lithium-ion batteries typically have a longer battery life, are airline-safe, and allow users to travel longer distances without needing a recharge.

  • Cost-Effective: Over time, investing in a lightweight folding power wheelchair can be more cost-effective than frequently renting or replacing less durable and heavier mobility aids.

What to Consider When Buying a Lightweight Electric Wheelchair

Before buying a lightweight folding power wheelchair, there are several factors you need to consider to make an educated purchasing decision.

  • Weight: Verify the wheelchair's weight and make sure it's light enough for you to pick it up.
  • Seat Width: Check to make sure the seat is wide enough for you to fit in comfortably. 
  • Ease of Folding: Check how easily the wheelchair can be folded and unfolded. This is particularly important if the user or caregiver has strength or dexterity limitations.
  • Dimensions: When folded, the wheelchair should fit in the intended storage space, such as a car trunk, closet, or other areas.
  • Battery Life: Review the specifications to see how long the wheelchair can be used on a single charge and consider whether this aligns with the user's lifestyle and requirements.
  • Terrain Compatibility: Depending on where the wheelchair will be used, ensure it is capable of handling those environments (e.g., rough surfaces, outdoor use, etc.)
  • Comfort: The seat should be comfortable, especially if the user will be sitting in the chair for extended periods. Look for chairs with adjustable backrests, armrests, and footrests.
  • Maintenance: Investigate the level of maintenance required and whether you have the resources and ability to provide it.
  • Safety Features: Check for safety features such as seat belts, anti-tip wheels, brakes, and whether they meet the user's needs.
  • Customization: Some wheelchairs offer options for customization, like seat height, armrest location, control panel position, which could be important for the user's comfort and ease of use.
  • Warranty & After-sales Service: It's essential to know the warranty coverage, where to go for repairs, and how responsive the company is in providing after-sales service.
  • Price: While not always the case, price often reflects quality and functionality. Be sure to balance the cost of the wheelchair with the features and benefits it provides.
  • Reviews: Read reviews from other buyers to learn more about the product's real-life performance, reliability, and customer service experiences.

    Cost 

    The average price of a lightweight folding power wheelchair is between $1,795 to $3,799. 

    The price depends on:

    • Features
    • Materials used for the frame and components
    • Total weight
    • Battery type
    • Weight capacity

    The more features, technology, folding options, and materials used to develop a lightweight power wheelchair the more money it will cost.   

    Conclusion

    At BestPowerWheelchair.com, we have spent hundreds of hours researching and testing the lightest folding electric wheelchairs on the market in 2023 to recommend the best picks to our customers.

    We ranked the above power chairs based on their total weight, folding options, features, specifications, consumer reviews and feedback.

    Our goal is to make it easy for you to pick the best product and be confident in your decision.

    Additional Resources: