Powerchairs

Powerchairs and Electric Wheelchairs for Everyday Mobility

Powerchairs, also known as electric wheelchairs or powered wheelchairs, are controlled using a joystick or alternative control system. They can help users move, turn and position themselves with less physical effort than a manual wheelchair.

Compared with mobility scooters, powerchairs are often better suited to users who need joystick control, tighter indoor manoeuvrability or more supportive seated positioning.

This range includes a mix of compact powerchairs, folding powerchairs, standard powered wheelchairs and more advanced seating systems for indoor, outdoor or mixed use.

Types of Powerchair Available

Different powerchairs are designed for different environments and support needs:

• Compact powerchairs – ideal for indoor use and tighter spaces
• Folding powerchairs – easier to transport and store
• Mid-wheel drive powerchairs – excellent manoeuvrability indoors
• Rear-wheel drive powerchairs – stable and comfortable for outdoor use
• Front-wheel drive powerchairs – better obstacle handling outdoors
• Complex powerchairs – advanced seating, positioning and support features

Choosing the right type depends on how the chair will be used day to day.

What to Consider Before Buying

Powerchairs vary significantly in size, control and support, so it is important to focus on the user’s needs:

• Indoor vs outdoor use – manoeuvrability vs stability
• Seating and posture – comfort, positioning and support
• Control type – joystick, specialist controls or alternative inputs
• Turning space – especially for indoor use
• Transport – whether the chair needs to fold or be transported
• Weight capacity – especially for heavy duty models
• Adjustability – for long-term use or changing needs

If posture, support or long-term seating is a priority, a more advanced or complex powerchair may be the right choice. If portability is more important, a folding powerchair may be a better fit.

Trying, Comparing and Funding a Powerchair

Powerchairs are highly personal, so it is worth comparing suitable models before buying where possible. Seat width, back support, leg position, joystick setup, drive type, turning space and outdoor performance can all affect how comfortable and practical a chair feels day to day.

Modern Mobility can help customers compare powerchairs in store, and home assessments may be available where suitable. This can be especially useful if you need to check doorway widths, indoor turning space, access routes, storage or how the chair feels in the environment where it will be used most.

Selected powerchairs may also be available through the Motability Scheme, and finance may be available on eligible purchases. If you are unsure whether to choose a folding, standard, complex or paediatric powerchair, Modern Mobility can help narrow down the options based on comfort, controls, portability, seating support and daily use.

This range currently features powerchairs from brands including Dietz, Rascal, Roma, Shoprider, Pride Mobility, Quickie, Karma, Kymco, Quantum, Ezi-Fold, TGA/WHILL, Modern Mobility and Zippie, with options across compact, folding, standard, paediatric, complex, mid-wheel, rear-wheel, front-wheel and bariatric powerchairs.

Powerchair FAQs

Quick answers on electric wheelchairs, indoor use, outdoor use and choosing the right model.

What Is a Powerchair?

A powerchair is an electric wheelchair that uses a motor and battery to allow the user to move independently using a control system.

What Is the Difference Between a Powerchair and an Electric Wheelchair?

There is no real difference. Both terms are commonly used to describe the same type of powered wheelchair.

Are Powerchairs Suitable for Indoor Use?

Yes. Many compact or mid-wheel drive powerchairs are specifically designed for indoor manoeuvrability.

Can Powerchairs Be Used Outdoors?

Yes. Many models are designed for both indoor and outdoor use, although some are better suited to one environment than the other.

How Do I Choose the Right Powerchair?

Start with where it will be used, then consider comfort, seating support, control type and whether the chair needs to be transported or adjusted over time.

Can I Try a Powerchair Before Buying?

Selected powerchairs may be available to view or try through Modern Mobility. Store availability can vary, and home assessments may be available where suitable.

Can I Get a Powerchair on Motability?

Certain powerchair models are available through the Motability Scheme for eligible users. To learn more, speak to one of our Motability Scheme accredited specialists in-store.

Which Powerchair Brands Does Modern Mobility Stock?

Modern Mobility currently stocks powerchair ranges from brands including Dietz, Rascal, Roma, Shoprider, Pride Mobility, Quickie, Karma, Kymco, Quantum, Monarch/Ezi-Fold, TGA/WHILL, Modern Mobility and Zippie, depending on the category and current availability.