Choosing the right wheelchair can greatly enhance your mobility, comfort, and independence. With a wide variety of options and models available, finding one that fits your lifestyle, physical needs, and budget can be overwhelming.
Before you buy a wheelchair, it’s a good idea to set a budget and check out the different models and specs that are out there. Picking the right wheelchair isn’t just about choosing a style; it’s also about understanding what will make you comfortable and mobile.
We have created this buying guide to help you find the right wheelchair. Use the information below to compare, research, and discover the best options for your needs.
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Best Wheelchairs to Buy by Category
Compare the top wheelchair options based on your needs. What wheelchair should you buy? We did the research and selected the best-performing and top-selling models for each category. Whether you need an electric or manual wheelchair, lightweight, heavy-duty, foldable, or reclining, these are the top choices below.
Manual
Manual wheelchairs provide lightweight and cost-effective mobility solutions for users who can self-propel or require caregiver assistance.
1. Featherweight Manual Wheelchair 19 lbs - $649
Feather Chair weighs only 19 pounds fully assembled and an impressive 13.5 pounds with the optional pop-off wheels removed. This lightweight wheelchair has a 250-weight capacity. Self-propelled or with the assistance of a caregiver.
2. ComfyGO X-1 Manual 32 lbs - $469
The Standard model of X-1 ComfyGO Manual Lightweight Wheelchair with 17.5″ Wide Seat weighs only 32 lbs and has a weight capacity of 220 lbs. It is also airline-approved for travel.
3. Heartway Spring Tilt-in-Space - $1,743
The Spring uses a Tilt-In-Space seat that operates manually and the seat reclines up to 30 degrees. The ergonomic seat width is available in 16", 18", and 22". It Has a weight capacity of 300 lbs and weighs 84 lbs with 24" quick-release drive wheels.
Lightweight
Lightweight and portable, these models are ideal for easy transport and storage. Perfect for individuals with some upper body strength who require a lighter frame for mobility.
1. Featherweight 33 lbs - $2,295
Featherweight only weighs 33 pounds with a 250-pound weight capacity. Its powered by a lithium-ion battery that weighs just 2 pounds. You can travel up to 13 miles on a full charge. The battery is also airline-approved, allowing you to take it onto an airplane.
2. ComfyGo Phoenix Carbon 26 lbs - $2,999
Constructed from top-tier carbon fiber materials and equipped with two powerful motors, it offers a seamless and dependable ride. The remote-controlled ComfyGo Phoenix Carbon weighs 26 lbs and has a weight capacity of 240 lbs.
3. Journey Air Elite 26 lbs - $3,145
Air Elite Folding Power Chair has a weight capacity of 240 lbs. and weighs 29 lbs with an airline-approved battery. It can be used indoors and outdoors with its rear 10.5" flat-free tires and anti-tippers. It easily navigates multiple terrains such as grass, carpet and gravel roads.
Folding
Foldable designs allow for easy storage and travel, making them a great choice for users who frequently transport their wheelchairs.
1. Pride Jazzy Ultra Light 38 lbs - $2,999
Pride Jazzy Ultra Light weighs just 38 lbs with the batteries and 33 lbs without. It supports a weight capacity 300 lbs with a drive range of 16 miles. Easy folding and unfolding with a durable all-carbon-fiber frame. It's also one of Pride Mobility's lightest Jazzy power chairs.
2. Journey Air Elite 37 lbs - $1,999
At only 37 pounds with the battery, the Journey Air Lightweight Folding Power Chair is one of the lightest power chairs in the world. It has a weight capacity of 240 lbs and can travel up to 10 miles.
3. MAJESTIC IQ-7000 Auto Folding Remote Controlled - $2,249
The MAJESTIC IQ-7000 AF (Auto Folding) wheelchair from ComfyGo is a beautifully designed electric wheelchair that folds automatically with a remote control. IQ-7000 wheelchair is airline-approved, weighs 67 lbs with a weight capacity of up to 350 lbs, a seat width of 19", and a top speed of 4 mph.
Affordable
Shop for budget-friendly and affordable wheelchairs to keep up with your active lifestyle without breaking your bank account. Budget-friendly wheelchairs offer basic functionality with standard materials, while more expensive models provide lightweight designs, durability and offer advanced features.
This budget-friendly and affordable power chair weighs 65 lbs and has a max speed of 3.7 mph with a 15.5-mile driving range and 330 lbs weight capacity. It's airline-approved and comes in four colors: blue, red, black, or purple.
Vive Health Comact power chair offers a comfortable padded seat and a universal joystick controller that can be mounted on either the left or right armrest, both of which are height adjustable for easy transfer. It weighs 95 lbs and has a weight capacity of 220 lbs.
3. Journey So Lite C2 Ultra - $695
Made from military-grade magnesium, this lightweight yet incredibly strong wheelchair can support up to 250 pounds. With its 14 pound frame, it's effortless to maneuver, whether you're pushing it or sitting in it.
Heavy-Duty
Built with reinforced frames and larger weight capacities, heavy-duty (bariatric) wheelchairs provide durability and comfort for larger individuals.
1. Merits Atlantis Heavy Duty Up to 600 lbs - $4,910
The Atlantis Heavy Duty Power Chair by Merits Health gives you durability and comfort with the added benefits of heavy-duty construction and design with a 600 lbs weight capacity. The Atlantis is also equipped with a 31.5-inch turning radius, 12-inch drive wheels, and a high-powered motor.
2. Shoprider 6Runner 14 450 lbs - $5,769
The Shoprider 6Runner 14 is a heavy-duty power chair that is designed for everyday use for users weighing less than 450 lbs. It features a mid-wheel drive system and six points of contact with the ground for added stability.
3. Merits Health Travel-Ease up to 450 lbs - $1,643.74
The Travel-Ease Folding Power Chair from Merits Health is available in four different seat widths, from 16" to 22" wide. This powerful folding electric wheelchair also has 300 - 450 lbs weight capacity options.
Travel
Travel wheelchairs are lightweight, compact, and designed for easy transport, making them ideal for frequent travelers, car trips, and air travel.
It's operated with one hand with a joystick that can be installed on the left or right side of the chair. Zoomer Folding Power Chair weighs only 39.6 lbs with the battery and has a weight capacity of 300 lbs. Zoomer folds up to 12″ and loads easily into your car’s trunk or back seat.
2. Pride Jazzy Carbon - $2,539
Travel lite with the all-new Jazzy Carbon Folding Power Wheelchair from Pride. It weighs only 43 lbs and has a weight capacity of 300 lbs. It is Ultra-lightweight and built with carbon fiber. Pride Jazzy Carbon also comes with a front suspension for a smooth ride.
3. Golden LiteRider Envy - $1,775
LiteRider Envy is a super compact, rear-wheel drive power chair for consumers looking for high quality at a great value. The total weight of the unit is 123 lbs, with the heaviest piece weighing only 37 lbs and a 300 lbs weight capacity. Golden LiteRider Envy disassembles in seconds into two lightweight, transportable pieces and fits easily into the trunk of virtually any vehicle.
Reclining
These wheelchairs come with adjustable reclining backrests for enhanced comfort, especially for users who need to sit for long durations. Reclining wheelchairs also help with pressure relief, improve circulation and provide better head and neck support.
1. MAJESTIC IQ-9000 Auto Recline Remote Controlled - $2,249
MAJESTIC IQ-9000 Auto Recline Remote Controlled Electric Wheelchair weighs 52 lbs without the battery, has a weight capacity of 310 lbs, comes with two seat width options 17.5" or 20". Easy to fold and and is also cruise ship and airline approved. Comes with 9 different colors and 4 frame colors.
2. Travel Buggy CITY 2 PLUS - $2,999
The newly redesigned CITY 2 PLUS is a popular foldable power wheelchair from Travel Buggy. This model has a reclining back seat up to 115 degrees and can be broken down into three easy-to-load pieces that easily fit in the back of any vehicle. When disassembled, the heaviest piece weighs only 40 lbs. CITY 2 PLUS also has an expandable seating width 19.5" - 23".
ComfyGO X-9 is a remote-controlled electric wheelchair with an automatic reclining backrest and lifting leg rests.Featuring independent control of the backrest and right/left leg rests, this wheelchair provides a customized experience for every user. Easily loadable in car trunks for easy transport. The X-9 weighs 92 lbs with a weight capacity of 310 lbs
Elevating
Equipped with a powered seat lift mechanism, elevating seat wheelchairs allow users to raise or lower their seating height, improving accessibility to counters, shelves, and social interactions.
Pride Jazzy Air 2 elevates up to 12” in just 11 seconds. Enjoy face-to-face social interactions while safely driving at speeds of up to 4 mph while elevated, allowing you to participate in the action. Customizable with seat options, joystick mount, foot leg rests and battery upgrades. It also comes in 10 different colors to match your personality.
3. Merits Vision Sport - $2,637
The budget-friendly Vision Sport mid-wheel power chair has a turning radius of 20” inches, an 18-mile driving range, full suspension, and top speed of 5 mph. This wheelchair has the option of adding a power elevating seat. It produces a smooth ride and features a comfortable 18” or 20” inch seat.
What to Consider When Buying a Wheelchair
When selecting a wheelchair, it’s important to evaluate these factors to ensure you get the best model for your needs:
- Manual vs. Electric – Manual wheelchairs require physical effort or a caregiver, while power wheelchairs provide independent mobility with minimal exertion.
- Budget – Prices range from $469 for manual models to $4,000+ for high-end electric models. Choose one that suits your financial situation.
- Weight Capacity – Make sure the wheelchair supports your weight safely and comfortably.
- Seat Size – Choose a wide, cushioned seat with adjustable armrests for optimal comfort. Seat sizes start from 16" to 32" wide.
- Portability & Storage – If you travel often, consider a foldable or lightweight model for easy transport.
- Indoor vs. Outdoor Use – Standard models work well indoors, while all-terrain or heavy-duty options are better suited for outdoor environments.
- Comfort & Adjustability – Features such as padded seating, adjustable footrests, and reclining options can improve overall comfort.
- Wheel Type – Larger rear wheels are better for self-propulsion, while smaller wheels make transport chairs more compact.
- Turning Radius – A tighter turning radius is crucial for maneuvering in narrow spaces and crowded areas.
- Battery Life – Electric wheelchair models average 10–20 miles per charge. The lifespan of batteries is two to three years.
- Safety Features – Look for anti-tip wheels, secure braking systems, seatbelts, and stability-enhancing features.
Additional Features to Look For
- Storage Options – Some wheelchairs come with storage pouches or under-seat compartments for carrying essentials.
- Weather Resistance – If using outdoors, consider models with rust-resistant frames and durable wheels.
- Easy Assembly & Disassembly – Especially important for travel-friendly models.
- Warranty & Customer Support – Choose a reputable brand with good warranty coverage and reliable customer support.
Conclusion
Selecting the best wheelchair depends on your mobility needs, lifestyle, and budget. Decide between a manual or a power chair with various options to suit your requirements.
Consider factors like weight capacity, seat size, and durability, and you can buy a wheelchair that will improve your mobility and your daily life.
Still Need Help?
Call us at 1-800-711-1940
Shop for All Wheelchairs for Sale
Additional Resources
- What is the lightest folding power wheelchair?
- What is the best power chair for up to 600 lbs?
- 3 Best Elevating Power Wheelchairs for 2025
- 3 Best Lightweight Wheelchairs for 2025
- 3 Best Reclining Power Wheelchairs for 2025
- 3 Best Heavy-Duty Power Wheelchairs for 2025
- 3 Best Affordable Wheelchairs for 2025
- 3 Best Folding Power Wheelchairs for 2025
- 3 Best Travel Power Wheelchairs for 2025