It's one of the questions we're asked most: should I get a mobility scooter or an Electric Wheelchair? Both get you out and about, and both cost thousands, so you want to get it right first time. The answer depends far more on you than on the equipment. Here's how we help people decide.
The one question that decides most cases
Can you get on and off a scooter easily, and stand up from it without a struggle? If you can, a scooter may suit you well. If standing up or getting on and off is hard, an Electric Wheelchair is usually the better choice. You sit in it all day, and many have seats that raise, recline or tilt.
If your eyesight is poor, a scooter isn't safe for you to drive. A manual wheelchair, pushed by someone else, is the right answer.
Side by side
| Mobility scooter | Electric Wheelchair | |
|---|---|---|
| How you steer | Handlebars (a tiller) | A joystick |
| Getting on and off | You need to step on and off | Easier if standing is hard |
| Indoors and in shops | Harder in tight spaces | Turns almost on the spot |
| Longer trips outside | Road scooters go up to 8 mph and further on a charge | Usually 4 mph, a few go up to 6 mph |
| In the car | Portable scooters come apart into lighter pieces | Folding chairs fold; others need a vehicle with a ramp or lift |
| Price | New from about £775 | New from about £1,400 |
Why people choose an Electric Wheelchair
"Compared with anything else we have, manoeuvrability is the best thing about it," says Mike about the Jazzy Air 2. "It almost turns on the spot. It's easy in and out of shops, and once you're used to the joystick you can weave through people."
Some chairs, like the Jazzy Air 2, have a seat that rises. "Raise the seat and you're at the same height as people standing," says Tracy. "It gives you confidence, and people talk to you, not to the person next to you." Read our Jazzy Air 2 review.
The joystick takes a little practice, then most people find it easy.
Why people choose a scooter
A scooter is often the better choice if you can walk a little but not far, and you want to get further afield. Portable scooters come apart for the car, so you can take one on days out and holidays. Road scooters go up to 8 mph and much further on a charge. Read what are the different types of mobility scooters?
Most scooters have a swivel seat, which helps if your hips or knees are bad. A delta tiller lets you drive one-handed.
Try both before you decide
"Most people don't know what they need, and when you're spending thousands you want to get it right," says Mike. "Hardly anywhere lets you take a chair out for the day to try. Hiring a Jazzy Air might not give you the perfect chair, but it shows you whether a powerchair suits you or whether you'd rather have a scooter."
You can hire a scooter or the Jazzy Air 2 from Stratford Shopmobility for the day, by donation. Call first on 01789 339 736.
Or book a free home assessment within 75 miles of Stratford-upon-Avon. We'll bring scooters or chairs to you and try them in your home, your doorways and your car.
Frequently asked questions
Is an Electric Wheelchair better than a scooter?
Neither is better for everyone. If standing up or getting on and off is hard, an Electric Wheelchair usually suits you better. If you can do that and want to go further, a scooter often does.
Can I get either on Motability?
Yes. We supply both on the Motability Scheme within 30 miles of our showroom. See Motability or buy your own?
Which goes in a car more easily?
A portable scooter that comes apart, or a folding Electric Wheelchair. See our best Electric Wheelchairs for folding chairs.
Can I try before I buy?
Yes. Hire from Stratford Shopmobility, or call us on 01789 339 738 to arrange a demonstration. Please call first.
