Best Wheelchairs 2020 (The Ultimate Guide)

Wheelchairs serve as a saving grace for approximately two million Americans to help carry out day-to-day tasks, many of whom would be unable to live or function independently without them. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to go about finding a wheelchair that best meets your needs and reveal the 10 best wheelchairs of 2020.

WHEELCHAIR BUYING GUIDE

If you or a loved one suffers from impaired mobility, a wheelchair can provide increased freedom and an improved quality of life. Today’s wheelchairs come with a wide range of features that allow you to customize the device to your specific needs. The following is an overview of the most popular types of wheelchairs on the market as well as factors to consider when choosing a wheelchair.

What Are Wheelchairs?

Wheelchairs come in various shapes, sizes, and configurations, but there are all essentially wheeled mobility devices that allow you to sit and propel yourself manually, with the aid of a caregiver, or by an automated system. If you’re limited in your mobility due to a physical or psychological illness, injury, or disability, wheelchairs can offer you greater freedom and independence. [source​]

Types of Wheelchairs

Modern technology has made it possible to create wheelchairs for virtually any situation or need, including chairs specifically designed for athletic and all-terrain use. The following looks at the most popular types of wheelchairs: [source​]

Non-Electric Wheelchairs

As the name implies, non-electric or manual wheelchairs are propelled by pushing the wheels with your hands or by a caregiver using the handles on the back of the chair. Since there are no motorized or electronic parts, these chairs are easy to maintain, relatively inexpensive, and lightweight for easy transport and storage. In the absence of a caregiver, you must have sufficient upper-body strength, mobility, and stamina to propel yourself.

Transport wheelchairs are the lightest and most portable manual wheelchair models. Unlike standard wheelchairs that feature large rear wheels to help propel yourself, these devices have four small wheels and require the help of a caregiver. You can find these wheelchairs often used in hospitals, medical offices, airports, and malls. There are suitable if you only need a wheelchair when shopping or other situations that entail a lot of walking.

Ultra-lightweight manual wheelchairs are specifically designed to be able to compete in sports, such as basketball, tennis, or marathons. These chairs have a low center of gravity for increased stability and allow you to stop or change directions quickly.

Power Wheelchairs

Power or electric wheelchairs are propelled by a battery and motor, allowing you to control the speed and direction of the device using a push button or joystick. These devices are suited for those with limited upper-body strength and mobility and can be customized for a wide range of needs. For example, some models of electric wheelchairs can easily travel on gravel, raise up to allow you to reach shelves, or even climb stairs.

The motor, battery, and heavy-duty frame make these devices quite heavy, so there are not as portable as manual models. The sophisticated technology also means a higher price tag and more maintenance.

Power-Assist Wheelchairs

Power-assist wheelchairs are a cross between a manual wheelchair and a fully powered one. These devices are largely self-propelled but have software-driven motors that intuitively respond to the amount of pressure applied to the wheels. This functionality helps reduce fatigue when traveling long distances and allows for more control when traveling over uneven terrain and down inclines.

What to Look for in a Wheelchair

Whether you intend to use a wheelchair for full-time or occasional use, it’s important to find one with the right combination of features for your physical needs and lifestyle:

Purpose

Where, when, and how often you use your wheelchair is perhaps the primary consideration when making your selection:

• Standard non-electric wheelchairs are ideally suited for indoor environments and flat terrain, and work for both short and long-term use.
• Transport wheelchairs aren’t typically intended for long-term use but rather short outings or traveling.
• Due to the expense, electric and customized wheelchairs are best suited for those who require round-the-clock mobility assistance.
• If you plan to use your wheelchair over uneven terrain, a model with a suspension system will provide you with added comfort.

Features

Footrests – The majority of wheelchairs come with either fixed or removable footrests. In most cases, removable footrests are preferable as they make it easier to get out of the chair or transfer to a bed. If you have swelling or poor circulation in your legs, you may want to consider a model with legrests that elevate up to 90 degrees.

Armrests – Adjustable and desk-length armrests allow you to get closer to tables and desks while flip-back or removable armrests make it easier to get into and out of the chair. If you plan to spend considerable time in your wheelchair, you may want to consider a model where the armrests have extra padding. You can also buy lambskin covers to make the armrests more comfortable.

Fabric – Most wheelchair seats are covered in vinyl, nylon, or fabric. While fabric is typically the most comfortable, quality vinyl is easier to clean and more durable. Nylon seats are extremely durable but you’ll probably want an added cushion to improve the comfort level.

Brakes – If you plan to use your wheelchair outdoors in areas with inclines and various types of terrain, you may want to consider a wheelchair with a braking system that allows you to slow down or stop suddenly if necessary (not to be confused with the wheel locks that hold the chair in park while exiting or transferring from the chair).

All fully electric wheelchairs can be slowed or stopped with a simple move of a button or joystick. If these types of wheelchairs fall outside your price range, the technology in power-assist wheelchairs will also allow you to slow down or stop by applying slight pressure to the wheels.

Weight Capacity

Most standard wheelchairs have a weight capacity of 200 to 250 pounds. Heavy-duty and bariatric models with reinforced frames and wider seats are available for larger individuals — some supporting up to 700 pounds. Of course, these chairs are more expensive and heavier, which makes them harder to transport.

Height, Width, and Depth of Seat

Both manual and electric wheelchairs come in various widths to accommodate different body types. The standard seat height for wheelchairs is 20 to 21 inches, which is adequate for individuals of average height.

If you’re over 6 feet tall, you may want to consider a seat with more height and depth to accommodate your longer frame. If you’re under 5 feet tall, you may want a shorter, shallower seat to make it easier to get out of the chair.

Comfort

Wheelchairs normally come with a 1.5-inch vinyl or fabric seat, which is usually sufficient for limited use. If, however, you plan to use the chair for more than a couple of hours a day, you may want to invest in a cushion. To this end, you can find gel and foam cushions designed for comfort, contoured cushions to help correct postures, and air or gel cushions to help prevent pressure ulcers. [source​]

Transport

Most transport and standard manual wheelchairs are collapsible and lightweight enough to fit into a larger car or SUV. If you’re considering an electric model, you will also need to consider the added cost of a lift and van.

The majority of standard and transport wheelchairs weigh between 25 and 40 pounds but ultra-light models made from aircraft-grade aluminum can weigh as little as 19 pounds.

Accessories

If you plan to spend a lot of time in your wheelchair, optional accessories such as cup holders, side pockets, or trays that slide onto the arms can make daily activities more convenient.

Safety

• If you plan to use your chair outdoors or on hilly terrain or inclines, consider a chair with treaded tires to provide more traction.
• Look for hand brakes located on the handles of the chair and an extended wheel lock handle to make it easier for you or your caregiver to control speed or stop suddenly when needed.
• Anti-tip bars are also highly recommended. Not only do these bars make it easier for a caregiver to navigate over curbs and entryways, but they also prevent the chair from tipping over backward when sitting down.

Fit

While the Americans with Disabilities Act requires public spaces to be wheelchair accessible, older buildings and many homes may have narrow hallways, doors, and tight turns that make it difficult to navigate a wheelchair through.Thus, before purchasing a chair, make sure to measure the doors and halls at your home, work, school, and other places you frequent to ensure they can accommodate the wheelchair.

Cost

Small, “no-frills” transport wheelchairs and standard manual wheelchairs are the least expensive and normally cost anywhere from $100 to $800. In contrast, electric wheelchairs and wheelchairs made from high-performance materials or that include customized features can cost thousands of dollars.

When choosing a wheelchair with any type of motor or electronic features that could malfunction, make sure to take the seller’s and manufacturer’s warranties into consideration.

10 BEST WHEELCHAIRS OF 2020

Keeping the above criteria in mind, we’ve compiled the following list of standard and transport wheelchairs that we believe offer the best combination of amenities and functionally for the money:

Drive Medical Blue Streak Wheelchair

The Blue Streak by Drive Medical is sturdy and versatile enough for light to moderate use while still affordable. Its features are basic and functional and thus primarily intended for individuals who only need a wheelchair occasionally, such as when traveling or shopping. While the Blue Streak can be used outside on smooth surfaces, it’s really best-suited for indoor use.

Our Rating:

Pros

• Lightweight and small enough for most users to transport independently
• Economical, which makes it a good choice when budget is a major concern
• Armrests flip back, allowing you to transfer in and out of the chair with ease
• Standard footrests swing back and can easily be removed
• Easy-to-clean vinyl seat and a metal frame built to resist chips and cracks and thus low-maintenance

Cons

• Relatively short footrests may not be long enough for taller individuals

• Armrest and legrest padding may wear and crack under heavy use

• Chair has a relatively low weight limit of 250 pounds and thus not meant for bariatric use

• Seat has minimal padding, so an extra cushion may be required if using the chair for more than a couple of hours

Drive Medical Cruiser III Wheelchair

While the Cruiser is a more substantial chair than the Blue Streak, it’s still best suited for indoor use. This model can be customized in several ways, including seat size and adjustable seat depth, custom back inserts and accessories, and traditional or elevating legrests.

Our Rating:

Pros

• Armrests swing back and can detach, allowing you to transfer independently
• Dual axle allows you to transition from a standard height to a hemi-level seat, making it easier to propel the chair using your feet
• Comes in three seat sizes that can accommodate users up to 350 pounds
• Chair weighs 25 to 38 pounds without the leg riggings and thus light enough for most users to lift into a car or SUV relatively easily
• Chair has an adjustable rail and upholstery, allowing you to adjust the seat depth from 16 to 19 inches
• Smooth plastic tires make it easy to navigate over most types of indoor flooring

Cons

• Plastic-made footrests can break easily
• Fastener used to adjust the seat can start to lose its grip over time or rub against the skin
• As a lightweight chair, it may skid or slide slightly if you try to get up unassisted even when the wheel locks are engaged

Drive Medical Lightweight Steel Transport Wheelchair

Easy to fold and fit into the trunk of most vehicles, this transport wheelchair is designed for convenience and ease of transport, making it ideal for outdoor excursions. That said, outdoor use should be restricted to smooth, paved surfaces or sidewalks. It’s also not the best choice for daily use.

Our Rating:

Pros

• Chair only weighs 26 pounds and thus light enough to take almost anywhere
• Chair comes with padded armrests and a seatbelt for comfort and safety
• Easy to clean and maintain steel frame and vinyl seat
• Depending on the seat width, overall width of the chair is between 21 and 24 inches and thus narrow enough to maneuver through most store aisles and hallways

Cons

• Chair only comes in 17 and 19-inch seat widths, which still may be too narrow for some individuals under the 250-pound weight limit
• Armrests are fixed so you have to be able to stand in order to exit the chair
• Footrests swing out of the way but aren’t removable
• Footrests aren’t sturdy and secure enough as they can come off when trying to stow the chair in a vehicle or swing around unexpectedly

Drive Medical Silver Sport Wheelchair

If you’re looking for a well-built and sturdy wheelchair designed for occasional to moderate use, the Silver Sport is a safe bet. Like the Steel Transport wheelchair, the back and seat of this model also collapse and fold, making it easy to transport in most vehicles.

Our Rating:

Pros

• Durable steel frame and composite wheels
• Includes a back pocket for storing small belongings while out and about
• Available with swing away or elevating footrests
• Height of footrests and length of legrests can be adjusted without using special tools
• Easy to clean steel frame and vinyl upholstery

Cons

• While the seat itself is 18 inches, the posts of the armrests narrow the opening to 16 inches at the front, which may be a little too snug for individuals with a larger frame or for extended use
• Armrests are fixed so you have to be able to stand in order to exit the chair
• Chair has a relatively low weight limit of 250 pounds and thus not meant for bariatric use
• Chair weighs nearly 40 pounds, which may be hard for some users or caregivers to lift easily
• Being relatively heavy with untextured tires, it can be difficult to navigate on carpets, especially if your upper-body strength is limited

Invacare Tracer EX2 Wheelchair

Ideal for moderate use, the Tracer EX2 is a solidly built chair that offers a smooth, comfortable ride on a variety of surfaces. While it’s easy to transport and store, it does lack some of the amenities you may want if you need a chair to use around the clock, such as a storage pouch.

Our Rating:

Pros

• Features an extended brake handle, allowing you to stop the chair quickly and easily
• Seat can be adjusted to standard and hemi-level height based on your needs
• Available with both fixed and removable arms either in desk or full length and thus easily customizable
• Made from an exceptionally durable and strong carbon steel frame and 14-gauge cross braces

Cons

• Doesn’t include a “step bar” in the back to help caregivers navigate over curbs and thresholds
• Weighs 37 pounds without the front riggings, thus requiring someone with a decent amount of upper-body strength to lift it into a vehicle
• Chair has a relatively low weight limit of 250 pounds and thus not meant for bariatric use
• Although the chair seat and back are supposed to have an inner lining to prevent stretching, they can still stretch with extended use

Karman LT-980 Ultra Lightweight Wheelchair

If your primary goal is to use your wheelchair on outings, the Karman LT-980 is worth considering. Weighing only 24 pounds, this model is one of the lightest wheelchairs available, allowing you or a caregiver to easily fold and stow it in a vehicle while spending the day shopping or visiting sights.

Our Rating:

Pros

• Despite being ultra-lightweight, it can still accommodate users up to 250 pounds
• Chair is light enough that even individuals who may not have a lot of upper-body strength can still propel themselves independently
• Can be customized with a storage pouch, seatbelt, and cup holder for added convenience and safety
• Offers the choice between removable standard and elevating footrests

Cons

• Chair is so light that it may push back when caregivers assist users into the chair from the front (this problem can be avoided by purchasing the optional anti-tip device)
• Even when adjusted, the footrests are relatively short, which may be problematic for taller individuals
• Tires don’t offer a great deal of traction, which can make navigating ramps or small inclines difficult
• Arms can’t be removed to facilitate transferring
• While sufficient for average-sized individuals, the 18-inch seat may not be comfortable for those with a larger frame
• Seat padding is a little thin for extended use, which may require an extra cushion when planning to sit for more than a couple of hours

Karman Ergo Flight Wheelchair

Made from aircraft-grade aluminum and weighing at just under 20 pounds, the Ergo Flight is a breeze to take with you for a day’s errands as it’s the lightest wheelchair of its type on the market. Despite its light weight, the Ergo Flight is still durable enough for regular use.

Our Rating:

Pros

• Backrest and seat fold for easy storage and loading into vehicles
• Upholstery has antimicrobial padding to resist bacterial buildup
• Chair comes standard with companion brakes for extra safety
• Back of seat comes with a convenient storage pouch
• Includes high-tread tires for added traction

Cons

• Chair has a maximum weight limit of 220 pounds and thus best suited for small and average-sized adults
• Chair only comes in 16 and 18-inch widths, which may not accommodate individuals with larger body frames
• Armrests are fixed, so transferring from the chair can be difficult
• Seat upholstery has a gray insert, which has a tendency to show stains

Medline Hybrid 2 Transport Wheelchair

Among the chairs reviewed in this list, the Hybrid 2 is unique in that it can operate in standard or transport mode, making it particularly versatile. Depending on your needs, you can remove the small rear transport wheels and replace them with standard wheels, allowing you to propel without assistance. This model is suitable for both daily or occasional use by individuals of almost any ability level.

Our Rating:

Pros

• Chair weighs 24 to 33 pounds depending on which tires you install and thus light enough for most people to lift and transport
• Removable arms and elevating legrests allow you to transfer or exit the chair easily
• 300-pound weight limit accommodates the majority of users

Cons

• Stitching where the fabric of the seat back wraps around the handle could use extra reinforcement and may tear with rigorous use
• While highly functional, this model could use a few amenities, such as a storage pouch or cup holder

Medline Lightweight Transport Wheelchair

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly wheelchair to easily take with you on outings, the Medline Transport may be a good option. This model is designed for individuals who only need a wheelchair occasionally and who have the ability to propel themselves with their feet or have the assistance of a caregiver.

Our Rating:

Pros

• Back of chair collapses for easy storage and transport
• At only 22 pounds, the chair is light enough for most adults to lift easily
• Although extremely light, the chair accommodates users up to 300 pounds
• Chair has loop-style hand brakes to allow a caregiver more control and help lock it in place during transfers
• Comes with 12-inch rear wheels for better performance on uneven surfaces

Cons

• Front wheels are somewhat flimsy and may bend if used on uneven surfaces
• Area between the seat and back has a gap, which makes it difficult to keep a cushion or lumbar support in place
• The 16×18-inch seat may be too short and narrow for taller or larger-framed individuals

Nova Medical Products 22-Inch Transport Wheelchair

The 22-inch Transport by Nova is a good option for individuals who want an easily transportable chair that can accommodate larger-framed individuals. At about half the weight of most standard chairs, this collapsible model is small enough to fit into most vehicles.

Our Rating:

Pros

• Chair has a weight capacity of 400 pounds, which is the highest of any of the transport chairs on this list
• Despite the increased weight capacity, the chair only weighs 27 pounds
• Has an extra-wide 22.5-inch seat to accommodate individuals with larger frames
• Chair arms fold back for transferring — an unusual yet handy feature among transport wheelchairs
• Handles contain locking hand brakes to offer caregivers more control when going down inclines

Cons

• Seat is rather uncomfortable, so an extra cushion is recommended if you plan to use the chair for more than a couple of hours
• Seat height of 19.5 inches may be a little too high for shorter individuals
• Casters on front wheels may bend if used on very rough terrain

CONCLUSION

All the wheelchairs on this list are solid choices and offer good value for the money. But when singling out the chair most appropriate for the majority of users, the Medline Hybrid 2 Transport wheelchair edges out the competition for one key reason: it can be used either in standard or transport mode, thus providing exceptional value at a reasonable cost.

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN!

Are you looking for a wheelchair not included in this guide? Leave your questions/comments below and we’ll do our best to answer them!