What is an electric wheelchair & who is it for?
For those with significant mobility challenges, an electric wheelchair can be totally life changing. Unlike traditional manual wheelchairs or mobility scooters, electric wheelchairs are designed to provide an enhanced level of independence, comfort and seamless manoeuvrability.
Electric wheelchairs are unique in that they offer tailored solutions for individuals who require advanced and ongoing support in their daily lives. Whether simply at home, out in the community, or whilst travelling, electric wheelchairs can act as a powerful extension of your own body.
With intuitive controls and customisable features, these devices offer freedom and independence to their user. Electric wheelchairs are amazing mobility aids that can open up a world of possibility, empowering users to move through life with greater ease and confidence.
What is an electric wheelchair?
An electric wheelchair, also known as a powered wheelchair, is designed for people who cannot self-propel a manual wheelchair or who require more assistive technology from their mobility aids.
These customers will usually have more restrictive disabilities which require additional support from a mobility device. This can include a higher level of technology and fully adjustable features.
Electric wheelchairs are controlled via a joystick for effortless movement in various environments. This makes them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, depending on the model.
They're also highly customisable, offering a huge range of features to meet individual needs. This includes everything from adjustable seating to advanced suspension systems. It's these tailored and more complex features that set electric wheelchairs apart from mobility scooters.
Key features of electric wheelchairs
Modern day electric wheelchairs have been designed with some amazing features. These are what make them stand out as a truly versatile and life-enhancing mobility aid.
Advanced manoeuvrability: With a tight turning radius, these chairs are perfect for navigating confined spaces. This makes them ideal for indoor use.
Customisable seating: Many models come with adjustable backrests, footrests and headrests. This ensures the user maximum comfort for extended use.
Joystick control: A simple, intuitive control system allows for precise navigation, even for those with limited dexterity.
Terrain adaptability: Whether it’s smooth indoor flooring, or uneven outdoor terrains, there are a huge variety of electric wheelchairs to suit all kinds of lifestyles and locations.
Compact & portable design: Many electric wheelchairs are foldable. This makes them travel friendly, and easier to store and transport.
How to choose your electric wheelchair
Electric wheelchairs are slightly more advanced than mobility scooters when it comes to features and functionality. They offer so much more than everyday movement and can be adapted to suit their user’s very specific needs.
This makes choosing an electric wheelchair a very personal decision. If your mobility has started to interfere with everyday tasks, you might be eligible for help from an Occupational Therapist – or an ‘OT’.
An OT can advise on which electric wheelchair would best suit your level of mobility to help you be more independent when it comes to day-to-day activities. In the UK you can access occupational therapy for free via the NHS. You can also choose to enrol this this service privately, through The Royal College of Occupational Therapists.
If you don't have access to an OT, we always recommend speaking to one of our in-house experts before you settle on your chosen model. Our friendly team have helped thousands of customers find the right fit for them, based on their individual needs and lifestyle.
Before you give them a call, consider the following points and make a checklist in your mind of what you do and don't want for your own eclectic wheelchair:
Lifestyle needs: Will your electric wheelchair be used primarily indoors or outdoors?
Portability: Do you need to transport your electric wheelchair frequently? If so, look out for a foldable or lightweight model.
Battery life & range: Check the specs of your electric wheelchair to ensure the battery is powerful enough, and the range long enough, to support your daily travel requirements.
Comfort: Use the specs list under each product on our website to check for the comfort features that are important to you, such as adjustable seating and ergonomic design for long-term use.
Electric wheelchair versus mobility scooter: key differences
From everyday errands to advanced support, both a mobility scooter and a powered wheelchair can offer life changing movement and freedom. But what's the difference between the two?
Though fairly similar, the key differences tend to be between design, functionality and purpose. Though small, these details will impact who will benefit most from a mobility scooter versus a powered wheelchair.
Here’s a quick overview of the main differences to be aware of:
Design and control
Electric wheelchair: Similar to a traditional wheelchair but motorized, with a joystick or control panel for operation and more wheels for stability.
Mobility scooter: More of a compact vehicle with three to four wheels and a tiller for steering.
Manoeuvrability
Electric wheelchair: Highly manoeuvrable, its smaller turning radius makes it ideal for indoor use and tight spaces.
Mobility scooter: Best for outdoor use with good stability on even surfaces. A larger turning radius for more of a ‘driving’ feel.
Seating & comfort
Electric wheelchair: A dedicated focus on postural support. Offers various seat and backrest options to enhance comfort and positioning.
Mobility scooter: Seats are often wide, elevated and occasionally fitted with a swivel function for easier access.
Portability
Electric wheelchair: Generally less portable, though some lightweight or foldable models are available.
Mobility scooter: Many models can be folded down or disassembled into smaller pieces for easy transport and storage.
Intended use
Electric wheelchair: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments. Enjoy smooth navigation in narrow spaces and the ability to handle uneven surfaces with specialised models.
Mobility scooter: Designed predominately for outdoor use, such as parks, pavements and shopping centres. Class 3 scooters – aka on-road and all-terrain models - are well equipped for rough terrains and more cross-country use.
Who is an electric wheelchair for?
Electric wheelchairs are designed for anyone who needs a high level of mobility assistance, without sacrificing independence or comfort. This makes them ideal for individuals with:
Neurological conditions: Such as multiple sclerosis or muscular dystrophy.
Spinal injuries: Where manual wheelchair use is impractical or impossible.
Severe arthritis or joint issues: That limit strength and mobility.
Elderly users: Who require more comprehensive support for everyday tasks.
Customer stories
Scholarly Support
“Emily is 17 and uses her powered wheelchair to maintain her strength and avoid pain when she’s at school. Emily keeps her device on school grounds, which is handy when travelling from one classroom to the next.
Her brother, Zack, is 13 and keeps his powered wheelchair at school too. The model that he uses is perfect for navigating the school’s corridors and lifts. It also fits neatly under the school desks, so Zack can remain sitting comfortably during his lessons.
There's no doubt that having powered wheelchairs for the duration of their school years has greatly benefited both Emily and Zack. Their powered wheelchairs have helped to minimise the pain and fatigue caused by their disabilities, and they've gone on to achieve brilliant things academically.”
Nigel, Kent
A Helping Hand
“My grandmother was delighted when we recently swapped her mobility scooter for a powered wheelchair. She loved her Invacare Leo, but a growing discomfort in her hands eventually made it too painful to use the scooter’s handlebars.
Her new powered wheelchair is controlled via a joystick, which is much easier for her to use. We chose a model that was similar in size and weight to her old scooter, so she could still use it around the shops without any bother. It's also small enough to use at home, which is helpful for when she wakes in the night and needs to move around.”
Joe, Kent
Top picks for electric wheelchairs
We’ve called upon our in-house expert, William, to talk us through some of his top recommendations for electric wheelchairs.
Don't forget that as a specialist product, which electric wheelchair is best for you will be very much based on what you need and want to support your everyday life.
William’s top 3 electric wheelchairs:
Quickie Q200 R
Best for: Indoor use and tight spaces.
Features: Compact design, superior manoeuvrability & customizable seating.
TGA WHILL Model C
Best for: Stylish and versatile mobility.
Features: Sleek design, smooth ride and excellent range.
Quantum Q6 Edge 2.0
Best for: Both indoor and outdoor use, including rougher terrains.
Features: Fully adaptable and fitted with front and rear suspension for a smooth, comfortable drive.
Price: £2,570
Our expert opinion
Electric wheelchairs are more than just mobility aids – they can be a gateway to greater independence and improved quality of life. Whether you need a reliable chair for indoor use, a model that can handle diverse outdoor terrains, or something portable for travel, there’s an electric wheelchair to suit every lifestyle.
At Mobility Giant, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit. Browse our range online, use our Scooter Finder™ Tool, or get in touch with our friendly team for expert advice.