The terms "power assist wheelchair" and "power wheelchair" sound similar, but they describe two very different products. Choosing the wrong one can mean real frustration — and a lot of wasted money.
Here's a clear explanation of both, and some guidance on which one is the right fit for your situation.
Key takeaways
- A power wheelchair is fully electric and joystick-controlled — the person does no pushing at all
- A power-assist wheelchair is a manual chair with motorised wheel hubs that amplify the user's pushing effort
- Both can be funded through the NDIS — an OT assessment determines which is clinically appropriate
In this article
What each one actually is
The key difference is whether you propel the wheelchair yourself. That single distinction shapes everything else about how the two products look, feel, and function day to day.
Power wheelchair (full electric wheelchair)
A full power wheelchair, also called a powerchair or electric wheelchair, is entirely battery-driven. You operate it with a joystick (or an alternative control if needed) and do no physical pushing at all. It provides full seating support: armrests, footrests, headrest, and optional trunk supports.
These chairs are designed for people who cannot safely or comfortably self-propel a manual wheelchair. They're built for full-time, daily use and come in indoor, outdoor, and folding configurations.
Power-assist wheelchair (motor add-on)
A power-assist system is an add-on to a manual wheelchair. Motorised hub devices, like the SmartDrive or e-motion wheels, sense your pushing effort and amplify it by around 80 to 90%. You still push the wheelchair, but with far less effort than a standard manual chair requires.
The wheelchair base stays a standard manual chair. The power-assist device can be removed when not needed, so the chair still works as a normal manual wheelchair. That makes it lighter and more flexible than a full power chair.
Which one suits you?
The right choice comes down to how much upper-body strength and endurance you have, and how much pushing effort you can sustain over a full day.
Choose a full power wheelchair if...
- You cannot safely self-propel a manual wheelchair at all
- You fatigue very quickly, even with some propulsion assistance
- You need postural management (trunk supports, tilt-in-space, recline)
- You use a wheelchair all day and need consistent powered support throughout
Choose a power-assist system if...
- You have some upper-body strength but tire over longer distances or on ramps
- You want to stay active and maintain your upper-body strength
- You travel frequently and need a lighter, more portable solution
- You already have a manual wheelchair you're comfortable in
Cost and NDIS funding for each
Full power wheelchairs in Australia start at around $2,500 for entry-level models and go up to $15,000 and beyond for complex rehabilitation chairs.
Power-assist systems typically cost $3,000 to $7,000 for the add-on device alone, on top of your manual wheelchair base. That said, the total system is often lighter and more airline-friendly than a comparable full power chair.
Both are funded under the NDIS as assistive technology. An occupational therapist assessment determines which is clinically appropriate for your mobility needs. The NDIS doesn't fund based on preference alone, so an OT report is the key step regardless of which direction you're leaning.
We stock wheelchair power-assist devices as well as our full range of electric power chairs. If you're not sure which direction suits you, our team can help you compare options and point you towards an OT for an assessment.