What Is the Best Electric Wheelchair to Purchase?

Choosing the right electric wheelchair can feel overwhelming. With so many models, features, and price points, it’s easy to get lost in technical jargon or side-tracked by glossy marketing.

But here’s the truth: the best electric wheelchair is the one that fits you, your needs, your lifestyle, and your environment.

As a mobility shop in Ireland and a trusted physio supplies store, we’ve helped thousands of customers find the right mobility aids to regain independence and move with confidence. This guide will walk you through the essentials. From electric wheelchair types to smart features to look for, so you can make an informed choice in 2025.

Why Electric Wheelchairs Are Transforming Daily Mobility

Electric wheelchairs (also called power wheelchairs and motorised wheelchairs) have come a long way in the last decade. What was once bulky and limited is now sleek, foldable, and intelligent.

An electric wheelchair offers more than mobility. It gives freedom to those with reduced strength, stamina, or coordination, letting them navigate their home, community, or workplace with ease.

If you’re managing a long-term condition, recovering from surgery, or simply finding manual wheelchairs too difficult, a power chair can bridge the gap.

Who Should Consider an Electric Wheelchair?

You might benefit from an electric wheelchair if:

• You struggle with pushing a manual wheelchair for long periods.
• You experience fatigue from walking or using walking aids like a zimmer frame.
• You need mobility both indoors and outdoors.
• You have a progressive condition affecting your mobility, like MS or Parkinson’s.
• You want independence without relying on carers for short trips or home movement.

Some of our customers come in after trying a rollator walker or standard wheelchair, only to realise they need something more powered and supportive. That’s where the right electric wheelchair can make a world of difference.

Types of Electric Wheelchairs in 2025

Here are the four main types available in Ireland today:

1. Folding Electric Wheelchairs

These are perfect for travel or tight spaces. They fold like a pushchair and fit easily in a car boot. Ideal for those living in apartments or needing portable options for family visits.

Example: Imagine needing to take a trip from Cork to Dublin. A folding chair makes it easy to pack up and move without needing a specialised vehicle.

2. Mid-Wheel Drive Wheelchairs

These offer a tighter turning radius, ideal for indoor use. They’re highly manoeuvrable in narrow hallways or small living rooms.

Example: If you spend most of your time at home and need smooth indoor navigation, this is your go-to.

3. Rear-Wheel Drive Wheelchairs

Great for outdoor use. More stable at higher speeds and over uneven ground like gravel, footpaths, or uneven roads in rural Ireland.

Example: If you regularly go to local shops or enjoy park strolls, a rear-wheel model handles kerbs and bumps well.

4. Heavy-Duty Power Chairs

Built for users who need extra support or weight capacity. These offer larger wheels, reinforced frames, and stronger motors.

Features That Matter in 2025

When buying an electric wheelchair in 2025, here’s what to prioritise:

1. Battery Range

Look for models with a 15km–25km range on a single charge. This covers a full day’s worth of errands and movement without worry.

2. Adjustability

From reclining backrests to elevating leg rests, choose a model that allows posture shifts and pressure relief.

3. Joystick Control

Simple, intuitive controls make all the difference. Most units now offer right or left-hand joystick customisation.

4. Suspension System

For smoother rides, especially if you live in older homes with uneven floors or frequently go outdoors.

5. Compactness

If storage is an issue, check folded dimensions. Some folding electric wheelchairs weigh under 25kg and fit under tables or in closets.

How Much Does an Electric Wheelchair Cost in Ireland?

Prices range from €1,500 for basic folding models to over €10,000 for premium custom-built power chairs.

Consider:

• Warranty
• Aftercare service
• Battery life
• Replacement part availability
• Delivery and setup

Buying Considerations for Irish Customers

Terrain

Rural vs. city environments affect your choice. Rural customers often need sturdier chairs with suspension.

Storage

Live in a small flat in Dublin or a bungalow in Kerry? Think about where the chair will be stored or charged.

Transport

Need to travel often? A foldable model is key. Rely on taxis or public transport? Make sure it’s compact and airline-approved.

How We Help at Medpoint

We’re not just a mobility retailer. As mobility aids specialists in Ireland, we understand the clinical and lifestyle needs of our customers. Every recommendation is backed by years of experience working with individuals across all mobility levels.

Whether you’re upgrading from a manual wheelchair, exploring walking aids, or comparing models side-by-side, our team helps simplify the process. We’ve also helped many customers who started with a rollator or zimmer frame make a confident switch to a powered solution.

You don’t need to guess. We’re here to guide.

Here’s another helpful article you might find interesting about the difference between power wheelchair and electric wheelchair.

Final Words

The right electric wheelchair is more than a product — it’s a path to freedom.

At Medpoint, we understand that mobility isn’t one-size-fits-all. As Ireland’s trusted mobility shop and physio supplies store, we’re here to support your journey toward greater independence.

If you’re unsure where to begin, visit us in-store at Shankill, Dublin or give us a call. We’ll help you explore options that fit your needs, budget, and lifestyle.

Because the best electric wheelchair isn’t the most expensive one — it’s the one that gets you moving again.

Supporting Info: HSE

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