You’ve decided on an electric wheelchair. These chairs are perfect for people with mobility issues, providing a greater sense of freedom and independence. However, there are two main subcategories of powered wheelchairs: foldable and non-foldable.
When it comes to foldable vs. non-foldable electric wheelchairs, there are a few factors to consider. For example, if you travel often – especially via car – foldable electric wheelchairs can fit into your car where their non-foldable counterparts cannot.
That’s not all. You should also factor in the specific features, weight, and cost of the two options. We’re providing an in-depth comparison of these electric wheelchairs, ensuring you can make an informed decision.
In this guide, you’ll find:
- Definition of non-foldable and foldable electric wheelchairs
- Pros and cons of non-foldable vs foldable electric wheelchairs
- Advice on how to choose between the two options
1. Benefits and Drawbacks of Foldable Electric Wheelchair
Foldable electric wheelchair is designed for easy travel, portability and convenience. Like all electric wheelchairs, they’re primarily battery-powered and are capable of traveling medium distances and handling indoor environments.
The primary advantage of the folding design is its mobility. In just a few seconds, the wheelchair collapses into a compact shape capable of fitting into smaller spaces, including car trunks and storage lockers. Moreover, because they’re generally smaller than their non-foldable counterparts, they’re even more maneuverable in tight spaces and crowded environments.
Benefits
- Convenience for Travel and Storage. Specifically designed to be compact when folded, foldable electric wheelchair is easy to transport and store. This feature is convenient for people living in small spaces or who travel frequently in cars or public transport.
- Ideal for Frequent Travelers. The design is a game-changer for regular travelers. It simplifies the process of moving through airports, railway stations, and other transit hubs. When loading and unloading, its lightweight design means it’s simpler and easier to lift and manage. For example, an older spouse of someone with mobility issues can lift the wheelchair without any issue.
- Indoor and Outdoor Versatility. Alongside its compactness, it can also handle indoor and outdoor environments. These designs often balance maneuverability in tight indoor spaces with durability for outdoor spaces. So, it’s as capable on a park path as it is in your home.
Drawbacks
- Reduced Durability. Compactness comes at a cost. In striving for a lightweight, foldable design, the frame of foldable electric wheelchair is often less robust and sturdy. This can affect their durability and lifespan, especially if routinely used in rugged outdoor environments.
- Limited Features and Options. Due to the need to maintain a foldable structure, these wheelchairs usually lack some of the advanced features found in non-foldable models. For instance, storage space, battery life, and speed settings are limited. There may also be fewer customization options for seating and controls, impacting the comfort and convenience of the device.
2. Benefits and Drawbacks of Non-Foldable Electric Wheelchair
Non-foldable electric wheelchair is the standard model typically used by people with mobility issues. Stronger, more reliable, and more comfortable than foldable electric wheelchair, it is capable of handling more wear and tear and come with several additional features.
Indeed, they’re designed for prolonged daily use by people with complex mobility issues. Given their larger upfront cost, these electric wheelchairs will last longer and provide greater stability and endurance.
Benefits
- Higher Weight Capacities and Advanced Features. Because they’re not designed to fold, they’re generally more robust, offering higher weight capacities that can accommodate a broad range of users. Moreover, the additional weight capacity allows for more advanced features, such as adjustable speed settings, enhanced cushioning, and some storage.
- Smoother and More Comfortable Ride. Thanks to their sturdier construction (and often larger wheels), non-foldable electric wheelchairs guarantee a smoother ride, regardless of terrain. If you frequently travel over uneven surfaces (including gravel, pebbles, or grass), it’s by far the superior option.
- Durability and Performance. These wheelchairs are built for longevity and performance. Their solid frames and high-quality components are designed to withstand constant use – justifying their significant upfront costs. As such, they can also handle a range of body shapes without seeing a decline in function.
Drawbacks
- Less Convenient for Transportation and Storage. Non-foldable power wheelchairs are heavier and more robust than their foldable counterparts. However, with greater durability comes reduced transportability. These wheelchairs struggle to fit onto public transport and are impossible to fit into cars. This requires users to plan their travels more thoroughly. Carers are also unlikely to be able to lift the chairs.
- Requires More Space. The larger size and fixed frame mean non-foldable wheelchairs require more storage space. Even if you’ve got the available space, these vehicles often have larger turning circles. This makes maneuvering them within tight indoor spaces difficult – an ongoing challenge for people living in apartments or homes with limited space.
3. Who is Best Suited to Foldable Electric Wheelchair?
Electric foldable wheelchair is not for everyone. Built with tight spaces and frequent travel in mind, people who spend most of their time getting to and from work or who routinely use public transport will benefit most.
Some people who might find foldable electric wheelchair particularly suitable include:
- Frequent Travelers: Individuals who travel often, especially those who use public transportation or fly regularly.
- City Dwellers: Residents of urban areas with limited living space or those who navigate crowded streets and public spaces.
- Commuters: People who need to commute daily and require a wheelchair that can easily be folded and stored in a car or carried on public transport.
- Active Lifestyle Enthusiasts: Those who enjoy attending social events, traveling to different locations, and need a portable mobility solution.
- Apartment Residents: Individuals living in apartments or homes with limited storage space.
- Office Workers: Professionals who need to maneuver around office environments and store their wheelchairs in a compact space.
Okay. So, you’ve decided an foldable electric wheelchair is the best option for your circumstances. But which model should you choose? Here are some of the top options available:
1. XSTO Mobility Robot M4
Despite its compact design, the M4 is one of the most robust, advanced foldable electric wheelchair on the market. Built from high-performance aluminum, this elegant chair is as strong as it is lightweight. The chair can handle a maximum slope of 15 degrees, obstacle heights of 50 mm, and a clearance width of 50 mm.
Other features include:
- Self-adjustable seat position
- Power seat adjustment
- Easy-to-use remote control
- Powerful battery
- Height-adjustable armrests
2. Move Lite Folding Power Chair
Made from durable, lightweight aluminum alloy, this 50-pound chair has a top speed of 5 miles per hour and can travel a maximum distance of 15 miles. It folds and unfolds with the click of a button and comes with adjustable armrests and footrests.
3. Pride Jazzy Passport Folding Power Chair
Explicitly designed for long-distance travel, the 54-pound chair features a backseat pocket and under-seat storage bag. It’s slower than other competing models (max speed of 3.6 miles per hour). However, its charge can last for up to three hours, covering a maximum distance of 10.5 miles.
4. Who is Best Suited to Non-foldable Electric Wheelchair?
Non-foldable electric wheelchairs are the industry standard. However, while their reduced maneuverbility and compactness are limiting factors for some, others will benefit from the increased power, increased comfort, and greater customization options.
Some of the people who might find non-foldable electric wheelchairs especially beneficial include:
- Individuals Requiring Daily Use: Those who rely on their wheelchairs for mobility throughout the day and prioritize comfort and durability.
- People with Higher Weight Requirements: Users who need a wheelchair with a higher weight capacity and robust construction.
- Residents of Suburban or Rural Areas: Those living in areas where transportation and storage space are less of an issue.
- Users Needing Advanced Features: Individuals who require specialized features for medical needs or personal comfort, such as enhanced seating support, adjustable controls, and long-range batteries.
- Home-Based Users: People who primarily use their wheelchairs at home or in settings where transportation and compact storage are not primary concerns.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Those who frequently navigate rough terrains, such as country roads or parks, and require a sturdy and stable mobility solution.
Is a non-foldable electric wheelchair the best option for your needs? If so, here are some of the top available models:
1. Forcemech Navigator
This robust electric wheelchair is perfect for tough road conditions and long-distance journeys. It can travel up to 18 miles on a single charge and has shock-absorption tires. The chair has a maximum weight capacity of 397 pounds.
2. Golden Technologies Alante Sport GP208A Power Chair
The ultimate wheelchair for comfort, it features a high back, two seat width options, a larger footplate, and adjustable armrests. It’s relatively cumbersome (146.5 pounds) and has a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds.
3. Drive Devilbliss Titan AXS Powerchair
Pairing a powerful motor with an extremely comfortable chair, the Titan is a fantastic option for long-term usage. The six-wheel design provides incredible stability and a tight turning radius. The vehicle has a reasonable maximum weight capacity of 297 pounds.
5. Find the Right Electric Wheelchair for Your Needs
Choosing the right electric wheelchair for you depends on your intended usage. Foldable electric wheelchair is best for frequent travelers and those with limited storage space, offering easy portability and quick storage solutions. In contrast, non-foldable electric wheelchair, while less portable, provides greater durability, higher weight capacity, and more comfort and stability, especially on rough terrain, making them suitable for daily, intensive use.
Remember, it’s about making the best choice for your circumstances. Get an Smart Wheelchair M4 if you’re interested in a comfortable, durable, and foldable electric wheelchair.
