If you’re considering buying a manual wheelchair — whether for yourself or a loved one — one of the first questions is likely, “How much is it going to cost me?” The good news is there are plenty of options to suit different budgets, lifestyles, and levels of mobility.
From simple folding chairs to ultra-lightweight, custom-built models, this guide breaks down prices, features, and what to look for before you buy.
How Much Does a Manual Wheelchair Cost?
| Type | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Basic steel transit or self-propelled chairs | £150–£400 |
| Lightweight or folding aluminium models | £350–£1,000 |
| Custom-built or active-user chairs | £1,000–£4,500+ |
What Affects the Cost of a Manual Wheelchair?
- Frame material: Steel is affordable but heavier. Aluminium, titanium, or carbon fibre models are lighter and more durable, though more expensive.
- Weight: Lightweight chairs are easier to push, lift, and transport — ideal for daily users.
- Adjustability: Chairs with adjustable backrests, footrests, and armrests provide better comfort and positioning.
- Customisation: Performance models are tailored to the user’s measurements, improving posture and long-term use.
- Accessories: Cushions, brakes, anti-tip wheels, and storage add cost but boost comfort and safety.
Entry-Level and Everyday Wheelchairs
If you’re looking for a quality everyday wheelchair, these models are great places to start:
Karma Ergo Lite 2 (Transit Model)
- Weight: 8.7kg (without wheels)
- Type: Transit wheelchair
- Price: £400–£500
This ultra-light model is ideal for travel, easy to fold, and features Karma’s S-Ergo seating system for healthy posture.
Karma Ergo 115 (Self-Propelled Model)
- Weight: Approx. 13kg
- Type: Self-propelled
- Price: £500–£650
The Ergo 115 is a fantastic all-rounder — lightweight, comfortable, and easy to store. Perfect for users who value independence.
High-Performance and Custom-Built Chairs
For full-time users or those needing greater performance, custom active-user wheelchairs offer precision, comfort, and control. These are often built to your body and lifestyle, much like a tailored suit.
Popular active chair brands include:
- Küschall (Invacare)
- Quickie Nitrum or Argon 2 (Sunrise Medical)
- TiLite (Permobil)
- Progeo
Prices start from around £2,000 and can exceed £4,500 depending on frame material and customisation.
Can You Get a Manual Wheelchair for Free?
Yes — you may be eligible through NHS Wheelchair Services depending on your local trust and clinical assessment. You might receive:
- A standard loan wheelchair for medical use
- A personal wheelchair budget (PWB) to part-fund a more suitable model
Ask your GP or occupational therapist for a referral to your local wheelchair service.
Help from Charities and Grants
If NHS support doesn’t meet your needs, these organisations may help fund your wheelchair:
- The Mobility Trust: Provides powered wheelchairs and scooters for people with long-term mobility conditions.
- Aspire Grants: Supports people with spinal cord injuries to buy mobility equipment.
- Turn2us: Helps find charitable grants available in your area.
- The Boparan Charitable Trust: Assists children and young people with disabilities through equipment funding.
How Active Mobility Can Help
At Active Mobility, we make sure your wheelchair fits your life — not just your size. We offer:
- ✅ Free expert advice and home assessments
- ✅ Try-before-you-buy demonstrations
- ✅ Help sourcing NHS or charity funding
- ✅ A wide range of trusted brands — Karma, Invacare, Sunrise, and more
What to Consider Before You Buy
- Will you use it daily or occasionally?
- Will you self-propel or need assistance?
- Do you need to lift or fold it into a car?
- Will you need cushions, brakes, or accessories?
- What’s your budget — and can funding help?
Get Expert Advice
If you’re unsure where to start, we’re here to help.
📞 Call: 01789 339738
📍 Visit: Unit 3 & 4, Avenue Fields Industrial Estate, CV37 0HT, Stratford-upon-Avon
🌐 Learn more: Book your free home assessment
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the average cost of a manual wheelchair?
Most people spend between £350 and £1,000 for a reliable manual wheelchair, depending on weight, features, and materials.
What’s the difference between a transit and self-propelled wheelchair?
Transit chairs are pushed by a carer, while self-propelled models have large rear wheels that the user can move independently.
Do you offer home assessments?
Yes! We provide free home assessments across Warwickshire and surrounding areas.
Which brands do you recommend?
We stock leading wheelchair brands such as Karma, Invacare, Sunrise Medical, and Progeo — offering quality, comfort, and performance for every budget.
