Choosing between a mobility scooter and an electric wheelchair? It can be a tricky decision. Luckily, we’re breaking down all the differences with this handy guide.
Read on to explore the pros and cons of mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs, and see what fits best into your life – so you can keep moving the way you want.
Key takeaways:
- Mobility scooters are great for those who need a bit of help getting around – but they do require some upper-body strength.
- Electric wheelchairs are better for people with limited upper-body strength who need more support.
- Power chairs are very similar to electric wheelchairs, but often have features for better comfort and increased performance.
What is a mobility scooter?
Some could say it’s a way for endless possibilities.
But technically, it’s an electric, single-seat vehicle that helps people who have trouble walking. You’ll need to steer it with handlebars, so they’re best for people with upper-body strength and who can comfortably sit upright.
Who should choose a mobility scooter?
Mobility scooters are generally designed for people who need extra support to walk, but they can also be helpful for:
- Making travelling more comfortable: Take the stress out of walking long distances.
- Those who get tired easily: Keep your energy instead for the moments that matter.
- Reducing the risk of falls and trips: They can be a real lifesaver for those with poor balance.
- Maintaining your independence: You don’t need to rely on lifts or help in getting around.
Different types of mobility scooters
Lightweight scooters
Thought mobility scooters were bulky and heavy? Think again. Many mobility scooters, like ours, weigh less than a suitcase. Perfect for wherever life takes you.
Folding scooters
Sometimes you’re in the mood to head off and go. Luckily, a folding mobility scooter won’t be holding you back. Easy to lift, even easier to put away, they’re a great choice for those spontaneous travel plans.
Travel scooters
Whether you’re going on a plane to your next holiday or going on a cruise, travel scooters are built for life on the go. They can be folded in one motion or broken down into small parts for easy storing on the move.
Boot scooters
Boot scooters make light work of tight spaces. Designed to be ultra-compact and dismantled in seconds, they can be popped in your boot, so you can focus on getting to your destination without stress.
What is an electric wheelchair?
Just like a mobility scooter, an electric wheelchair is a motorised single-seat vehicle. But they’re designed for people with minimal upper-body strength.
It can be operated easily with a joystick – this is usually placed on the side where the user has more strength.
Alternatively, it can be steered using an app or via head control for people with no upper body function at all.
Electric wheelchairs often have more bells and whistles than mobility scooters, such as medical-grade seating, custom cushions and postural support, to name a few.
Who should choose an electric wheelchair?
An electric wheelchair is a good fit for those who:
- Experience fatigue or muscle pain: Joysticks require very little strength to operate.
- Want to move around indoors: Tighter turning makes navigating easy.
- Seek more freedom: There’s no need for a caregiver to push or steer the wheelchair.
- Need extra comfort: Electric wheelchairs are designed to support users who need to sit down all day.
Different types of electric wheelchairs
Front-wheel
Great for short outdoor trips, a front-wheel wheelchair is ready to tackle any obstacles that come its way. It’s particularly handy at climbing over kerbs and pavements.
Mid-wheel
Mid-wheel wheelchairs are the most popular type of electric wheelchair. With a tight turning circle (fun fact: it can spin 360° on the spot), it can be driven inside and out with little trouble.
Rear-wheel
A rear-wheel electric wheelchair is best for frequent outdoor use. It can go as fast as you like and hit the, sometimes uneven, ground running.
What’s the difference between a power chair and electric wheelchair?
Not a whole lot.
Some mobility companies, including Humfree, call them ‘power chairs’ to describe electric wheelchairs designed with a few extra features for increased comfort and performance.
Humfree Glide is a great example.
Great for travelling further than just to the shop and back, the Humfree Glide features a supported padded seat, ultra-tight turning radius, and built-in lights and LCS screen for around-the-clock clarity.
What are the main differences between mobility scooters vs electric wheelchairs?
There are more differences than you might think. We’ve broken things down in our handy table below:
| Mobility scooter | Electric wheelchair | |
| Comfort | Comfortable for everyday journeys | Can be customised with medical-grade seating |
| Mobility level | Requires upper-body strength to steer and control | Suitable for people with limited upper-body strength |
| Weight | Lightweight and compact in size. | Usually heavier, but lighter models are available. |
| Portability | Many can be folded or even ‘clicked’ apart. | Some can fold or dismantle. |
| Controls | Handlebars with throttle controls | Joystick or specialist systems |
Do I need a license to use a mobility scooter or electric wheelchair?
Mostly, no.
Our scooters, including the Humfree Glide powerchair, fall into the Class 2 category. This means they have a maximum speed of 4mph or less and can be used on pavements and pedestrianised areas.
Click here to find out more about the rules of using a mobility scooter or electric wheelchair.
Can I have a mobility scooter and an electric wheelchair?
Nothing is stopping you from using a mobility scooter and an electric wheelchair. But if you feel having two chairs is too much, a modern power chair could be everything you need.
Still unsure?
Deciding between a mobility scooter vs an electric wheelchair all comes down to whatever fits your needs best.
If you’re still not sure, don’t worry. At Humfree, we’re here to help – request our free brochure to discover the model that’s right for you.
Whether it’s an ultra-light scooter for everyday trips or a feature-packed powerchair for extra support, let’s get you moving with confidence.
FAQs about Mobility scooters vs electric wheelchairs
Let’s address some of the most common questions.
