Best Electric Wheelchair Buying Guide 2025

With so many different options available, choosing the right electric wheelchair can feel overwhelming.

At Mobility Shop Direct, we believe that informed customers make the best choices, so we’ve prepared this guide to help you understand the key features and considerations.

What are Electric Wheelchairs?

Also referred to as power wheelchairs, electric wheelchairs function similarly to manual wheelchairs but use an electric motor for propulsion. This provides users with greater independence and convenience, especially for individuals who may have limited upper body strength or mobility.

Electric wheelchairs are shorter in length than mobility scooters and have smaller wheels, making them easier to maneuver in indoor spaces.

Benefits of Electric Wheelchairs?

Electric wheelchairs improve the quality of life for individuals who struggle with walking but also lack the physical strength to use a manual wheelchair.

By enhancing mobility, these chairs empower users to engage more fully in social activities, pursue educational opportunities, remain employed, and access critical services.

To read more about the Important Role Wheelchairs play in our community Click Here

Understanding Motor Wattage

The motor wattage of an electric wheelchair determines how much power the chair can deliver. Here’s a general breakdown:

150W - 180W: Suitable for indoor use and smooth, flat surfaces. These models are lightweight but struggle on outdoor terrain.
200W - 250W: A balanced option for both indoor and moderate outdoor use. These motors can handle light inclines and longer daily trips.
300W - 350W: Provides extra torque, making it ideal for users who encounter uneven paths, moderate hills, or rough surfaces.
400W - 500W and above: Designed for heavy-duty outdoor use and steep inclines. These high-powered motors are essential for bariatric users or those needing enhanced performance.

Types of Electric Wheelchairs?

Electric wheelchairs can be classified based on wheel configuration, purpose, and features. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:

Front Wheel Drive Electric Wheelchairs
Centre Wheel Drive Electric Wheelchairs
Rear Wheel Drive Electric Wheelchairs
Standing Electric Wheelchairs
Pediatric Electric Wheelchairs
Heavy Duty Electric Wheelchairs
Folding Travel Electric Wheelchairs
All Terrain Drive Electric Wheelchairs

Front Wheel Drive Electric Wheelchairs.

Power Output: Typically 250W to 350W motors
Speed: 8-9 km/h
Turning Radius: 63-71 cm (25"-28")
Best For: Outdoor areas with grass, snow, or curbs

These wheelchairs have their drive wheels positioned at the front, offering exceptional stability. However, users should be cautious during high-speed turns due to rear weight distribution.

Centre Wheel Drive Electric Wheelchairs.

Power Output: Typically dual 250W motors (500W total)
Speed: Up to 8 km/h
Turning Radius: 61-66 cm (24"-26")
Best For: Indoor use where precise maneuvering is needed

With drive wheels located in the center, these chairs have the tightest turning radius, making them perfect for navigating tight spaces. However, they can be less stable on uneven outdoor surfaces.

Rear Wheel Drive Electric Wheelchairs.

Power Output: 300W to 500W
Speed: Up to 9.7 km/h
Turning Radius: 83.8 cm (33")
Best For: Long-distance travel and hilly areas

Rear-wheel drive wheelchairs are known for their power and speed, making them excellent for outdoor use. However, they have a wider turning radius, making tight corners more challenging indoors.

Standing Electric Wheelchairs.

These specialized wheelchairs allow users to rise from a seated position to a standing position. Health benefits include:

Improved circulation
Reduced risk of pressure sores
Improved digestion and urinary drainage

Standing wheelchairs are often used by individuals with paraplegia, cerebral palsy, or muscular dystrophy.

Paediatric Electric Wheelchairs.

These wheelchairs are designed specifically for children, with smaller frames and customizable components. Pediatric wheelchairs are available in front-wheel, mid-wheel, and rear-wheel drive configurations.

Heavy Duty Electric Wheelchairs.

Also called bariatric power wheelchairs, these models are built to support higher weight capacities, often up to 300 kg. Key features include:

High-capacity batteries for extended travel ranges of 17-25 km
Heavy-duty motors (400W+) for enhanced power and stability

Folding Travel Electric Wheelchairs.

Lightweight and compact, these wheelchairs are easy to transport and can fit in most car trunks. However, due to their smaller size, they often have:

Lower motor wattage (typically 150W)
Reduced range and limited outdoor capabilities

All Terrain Drive Electric Wheelchairs.

These wheelchairs are built for outdoor adventures and feature:

High-powered motors (500W or more)
Large, rugged tires or tracks for navigating sand, dirt, grass, or snow

All-terrain models provide exceptional stability and can handle rough surfaces with ease.

How to Choose an Electric Wheelchair?

To find the wheelchair that best suits your needs, ask yourself the following:

Will it primarily be used indoors, outdoors, or both?
Does it need to fit through narrow spaces?
Will it be transported frequently?
What is your weight, and does the chair have the capacity to support it?
What kind of range and speed do you need?

What Type of Power Base do you need?

Front Wheel Drive Power Wheelchairs:

Offer the greatest level of Stability and for travelling short distances, and going over curbs.

Mid Wheel Drive Power Wheelchairs:

Offer the greatest level of Manoeuvrability and are ideal for use indoors.

Rear Wheel Drive Power Wheelchairs:

Offer the highest level of Power and are ideal for travelling longer distances especially on hilly areas.

What Size Power Wheelchair do you need?

Portable Electric Wheelchairs:

Lightweight and Easy to Disassemble these Power Wheelchairs are ideal for transporting in a motor vehicle, and indoor use such as in shopping centres.

However, because they feature basic seating and smaller batteries they are not suitable for travelling long distances or sitting all-day long.

Light Rehab Electric Wheelchairs:

Offering better seating comfort, and longer life batteries these power wheelchairs are the most maneuvrable and are ideal for use all day long in the home, nursing home or aged care facility.

Featuring larger wheels they provide more Stability and Ground Clearance making them more suitable for outdoor use than Portable Power Wheelchairs.

When transporting Light Rehab Electric Wheelchairs it is recommended to use ramps or lifting systems into the back of the vehicle.

Customised Electric Wheelchairs:

Customised Electric Wheelchairs are amongst the most premium options available on the market and you can customise any of the following components to meet your needs:

Power Base
Battery Size
Seating sytem
Accessories
Tilt and Recline function
Elevating Leg Rests
Cystin Headrests
Custom Back Rests
Pressure Care Seat Cushioning

Due to the complex nature of these Power Wheelchairs, it is vital to obtain proper assessment and advice to make the right choice, and we recommend you click here to make an appointment with a Expert Consultant.

Other Factors to Consider:

Personal Factors

What's the weight capacity of the power wheelchair?
Does the seat fit you comfortably?
Are your legs comfortable?
Does it have suspensions you can adjust according to your weight?
Will you be able to use the Power Wheelchair safely?
What's your hand strength and function like?
Do you have arthritis?
Will you be able to use a joystick?
Are you left or right handed?
What's my budget?

Lifestyle Factors

Where do you live?
Is it a hilly area?
Are the footpath smooth or rough?
Will you need to drive on the road?
Where do you want do go? Will access be an issue?
How far do you want to go?
How often do you intend to use it each day?

Transportation Factors

Will the power wheelchair need to be transported?
What vehicle will it need to fit?
Will the power wheelchair need to be disassembled?
Will it need to be loaded with a ramp or lift?
Who will be putting it in the vehicle and how strong are they?

Storage Factors

Where will you store your power wheelchair?
Will it be under cover?
Will you need to protect it with an all-weather cover?
Do you have a power point near the storage location?
What's the access like?

Best Electric Wheelchairs

At Mobility Shop Direct, our mission is to help you make an informed decision and choose the electric wheelchair that fits your lifestyle perfectly.

If you need personalized assistance, we encourage you to reach out to us at support@mobilityshopdirect.com.au. To help us recommend the most suitable option, please provide the following details:

Personal Information:

Your height and weight
Your widest width (e.g., hip width when seated)

Usage Needs:

Will the wheelchair be used indoors, outdoors, or both?
Does it need to fit through narrow spaces, such as doorways or hallways?
How far do you plan to travel per trip?
Will you be using it on flat surfaces or hilly/uneven areas?

Our team will review your information and guide you in selecting the most suitable electric wheelchair. We’re committed to ensuring your mobility, independence, and comfort.

Feel free to email us anytime at support@mobilityshopdirect.com.au—we look forward to assisting you!