The right wheelchair should support the way you move, sit, transfer, travel, and spend your day. We can help you choose a chair that fits your life and routine seamlessly.
A wheelchair can provide comfortable, consistent mobility while helping you conserve energy and stay connected to your everyday routines.
Move through appointments, errands, outings, and daily activities with less physical effort.
Enjoy the people, places, and activities that matter to you with the right support.
Choose a wheelchair suited to your needs, preferred activities, and level of independence.
Both options provide seated mobility, but they support different needs. A wheelchair can offer more individualized seating and maneuverability, while a mobility scooter is often chosen for comfortable travel across longer distances.
| Personalized Mobility Support Wheelchair | Powered Everyday Travel Mobility Scooter | |
|---|---|---|
| Movement | A manual wheelchair is propelled by the rider or a caregiver. A power wheelchair uses a motor and onboard controls. | Powered by an electric motor and typically operated using handlebars or a tiller. |
| Seating and support | Available with a wider range of seating dimensions, positioning components, cushions, and support options. | Typically uses a chair-style seat, often with armrests and a swivel function to make entry and exit easier. |
| Controls | Manual models use push rims or caregiver handles. Power models commonly use a joystick or another compatible control. | Usually requires the rider to steer with a tiller while operating acceleration and braking controls. |
| Maneuverability | Many models are designed for closer maneuvering around rooms, hallways, furniture, and other indoor spaces. | Often has a wider turning radius and benefits from more open space for turning and navigation. |
| Transfer considerations | May be used throughout the day as the rider’s primary seat, depending on the model and seating configuration. | Generally requires the rider to transfer onto the seat and maintain a position that allows use of the tiller. |
| Transport and storage | Manual models may fold for transport. Power wheelchairs are heavier and may require a ramp, accessible vehicle, or lift. | Some models disassemble or fold, while larger scooters may require a vehicle lift or exterior carrier. |
| Typical use | Well suited to everyday seated mobility at home, in the community, and in spaces with tighter turning requirements. | Often selected for errands, community outings, larger indoor spaces, and comfortable travel across longer distances. |
| Planning priorities | Seating support, chair dimensions, propulsion or controls, turning space, weight capacity, surfaces, and transportation. | Transfer ability, tiller operation, turning radius, battery range, terrain, weight capacity, storage, and transportation. |
Wheelchair selection begins with the person using it. Seating dimensions, support, controls, weight capacity, and transportation needs should all work together.
Our experts will help you decide which is best.
Straightforward operation for everyday trips.
Finding the right fit for your lifestyle
Take a look at our extensive lineup of products, curated to fit you and your home.
Tell us what you need help with and your nearest Sunshine Mobility team will follow up.