Last Updated On December 27th, 2021
Wheelchairs are an incredible invention, designed to give people with mobility issues more independence in their day-to-day lives. With the right wheelchair, anyone can get around with relative ease, often not needing the assistance of their friends and family to explore the world around them. The question is, how do you find the best lightweight self-propelled wheelchair to suit your needs?
There’s more to selecting the perfect wheelchair than just looking for something affordable and lightweight. You also need a product that’s comfortable, easy to manoeuvre, and equipped with features that will make your life as simple as possible. Some individuals even need access to special capabilities like instant folding mechanisms and high-strength puncture-proof wheels.
Whatever your requirements might be, we’re here to help. We’ve been through thousands of lightweight propelled wheelchair reviews on your behalf and analysed some of the top-performing devices on the market today to bring you this list for your utmost convenience.
Our Favourite Lightweight Self-Propelled Wheelchairs Compared
Best Lightweight Self-Propelled Wheelchair Reviews – Top 7 Picks
1. Elite Care ECSP01-18 (Editor’s Choice)
When you’re looking for the best lightweight self propelled wheelchair, the chances are that comfort will come high on your list of priorities. Fortunately, the Elite Care Lightweight folding chair has that covered.
Features
There’s a fantastic removable seat cushion and padded backrest included, so you can choose the kind of comfort you need depending on your personal preferences. Sufficient padded support aids in minimizing the need for frequent massages. There are also flip-up removable armrests, depending on whether you need armrests on the go.
The removable and height-adjustable leg rests are both durable and lightweight, and the seat comes with a lap belt to help keep the user sturdy and secure on the move. Moreover, there are convenient quick-release wheels in this self propelled wheelchair, which means that you can make the device even easier to fold up and transport. Unfortunately, the reviewers we heard from said that this chair does require a lot of maintenance to keep it in excellent condition.
- Comfortable, removable seat cushion, and padded backrest
- Fantastic customisable leg and armrests
- Easily removable back wheels
- Elite Care seatbelt included
- Easy to transport
- Lots of regular maintenance required
- Not ideal for long-term use unlike other wheelchairs
- The armrests can come unstuck quite easily
2. Elite Care ECSP03 (Best with Removable Armrests)
If you’re looking for a lightweight wheelchair that makes transferring patients simple, check out this Elite Care Lightweight folding option with quick release rear wheels.
Features
The great thing about this Elite Care model is that it comes with armrests that you can either flip up or remove altogether to ensure easy and effective side transfer experiences. The removable armrests also mean that it’s easy for users to get closer to tables when eating, too.
The quick release rear wheels make folding and storing this chair a breeze, and there’s a fold-down backrest, too, to make the kit even more compact. What’s more, the luxurious red metallic finish is sure to appeal to a wide range of users. Whether you’re looking for lightweight performance or stunning practicality, this self propelled wheelchair from Elite Care is a great choice. One issue is that if the brakes come loose, you need a special tool to tighten them, as a standard screwdriver won’t work.
- Flip-up and removable armrest
- Lightweight design with removable wheels for transportation
- Fold-down backrest makes the kit more compact
- Luxurious red metallic finish
- Comfortable cushioned seating
- Paint scratches quite easily
- A little squeaky at times
- Can’t tighten brakes with a regular screwdriver
3. Days Swift Mobility Device (Best Compactable)
The Days Swift self propelled Wheelchair is a simple but effective wheelchair solution if you’re looking for reliable self propelled performance.
Features
This unit comes with a seat width measuring around 41cm which should be enough for most users. It features quick-release wheels like many of the chairs on this list so that you shouldn’t have a problem putting it down for storage and transportation purposes.
The compact design of the Days Swift wheelchair makes it excellent for caretakers and patients alike in need of something simple and portable. Additionally, the back folds back halfway so you can reach behind you easily, too. The chair is incredibly easy to put together and use, so it’s a good choice for anyone who just wants to get started as quickly as possible. However, it’s worth noting that it’s not one of the most comfortable self-propelled wheelchairs out there, you may need to invest in an extra cushion, too. One other issue is that the footrests can’t be elevated to provide additional support, and the seat might be slightly too narrow for some.
- Quick-release wheels make storage easier
- Compact design easy to manoeuvre for patients and caretakers
- Folds back halfway for easy backward reaching
- Robust performance on most surfaces
- Ready to use out of the box
- Seat isn’t very comfortable
- No option to raise the footrests
- Not wide enough seat for some customers
4. Drive Enigma (Best for Larger Users)
One of the biggest issues that some users have when it comes to investing in a wheelchair is that standard chairs aren’t always designed for larger people. Fortunately, the Drive Ultra Lightweight Enigma wheelchair can solve that issue.
Features
The 20-inch seat makes it more suitable for a larger user, and there’s a silver aluminium frame to give you the strength you need from your chair, without any additional weight. The grey two-tone upholstery is also beautiful for people in search of something that looks stylish and appealing.
The swing out and quick release footrests mean that you can get rid of anything that might get in the way of pushing a user close enough to a table or another surface. Additionally, there’s a handy half folding back mechanism which means that people using this chair should have an easier time reaching behind them. According to the lightweight folding wheelchair reviews we read, it’s a great piece of equipment, but you do have to take the footrests off to fit it in your boot. Additionally, the device isn’t as lightweight as some of the wheelchairs on this list.
- Suitable for larger users
- Silver aluminium frame is strong and durable
- Two-tone upholstery looks great
- Half-folding back mechanism for easy reach
- Not as compact as some models
- Not as lightweight as other wheelchairs on the list
- No seatbelt
5. Angel Mobility Aluminium Chair (Best Ultra Lightweight)
If you’re in need of something lightweight and simple that you can take with you wherever you go, you should definitely take a look at the Angel Mobility lightweight aluminium chair.
Features
It weighs in at an impressive 9kg, which makes it much lighter than any of the other wheelchairs that we’ve mentioned so far. However, the aluminium construction still means that you’re going to get the durability and strength that you need, too.
The Angel Mobility self propelled chair can fold down easily if you want to place it in your car or take it with you on the go. Additionally, everything folds into one piece, so you don’t need to remove and replace any parts. The chair also comes with quick-release rear wheels and puncture-proof tyres to give you even more convenience out of your kit. Importantly, this chair isn’t designed specifically for long-term use, but it is great for when you need stability and durability on the go. Reviewers had a few niggles here and there, for instance, there are no handlebar brakes for the carer, and the wheels can be quite bouncy.
- Lightweight 9kg construction
- Easy to fold down and away for transportation
- Quick-release rear wheels with puncture proof tyres
- Designed for quick and easy use
- No handlebar brakes for the care provider
- Little wider than some wheelchairs
- Brakes need tightening regularly
6. Drive Devilbiss Healthcare (All-Terrain Option)
If you are out and about in your propelled wheelchair regularly, then you need one the best wheelchairs for outdoors. That means looking for something that’s both lightweight, durable, and designed to withstand the challenges of various terrains and elements.
Features
The Drive Devilbiss healthcare propelled wheelchair is an excellent choice with its reliable aluminium construction, and tool-free height adjustable footrests.
This self propelled device has fantastic full-length upholstered armrests included, along with a deep-comfort nylon seat that features a rear pocket to store your must-have items. The quick-release 24-inch wheels also mean that you can fold the propelled wheelchair away easily for transportation purposes, making it as small and lightweight as possible. What’s more, the rear wheels are puncture-proof, ensuring longevity and long-term performance. Unfortunately, those wheels are also quite stiff, which can make moving around more difficult. Additionally, the wheel grabs are surprisingly sharp.
- Folds up easily for storage purposes
- Sturdy aluminium build
- Puncture free rear wheels
- Deep comfort nylon seat and back pocket
- Full-length upholstered armrests
- Wheels are quite stiff and difficult to use
- Footrests cannot be removed
- Wheel grabs are quite sharp
7. Drive Medical LAWC007A (Best with Long-Reach Brakes)
If you’re looking for a self propelled wheelchair that’s as attractive as it is practical, then the Drive Medical ultra-lightweight model is an excellent choice.
Features
With its silver aluminium frame and single cross brace, accompanied by a two-toned upholstered seat, this product is built to impress. What’s more, there’s a half folding back mechanism for extra comfort, too.
The seat comes with a useful back pocket for storing anything you might need to take with you on the go. There’s also swing-out quick release footrests with height adjustable features included. As well as looking and feeling incredible, the Drive Medical also ensures that you’ll have an easy time taking your kit with you on the go. The whole self-propelled wheelchair folds up quickly and easily for instant storage and transportation. Unfortunately, there are no locking brakes and the plates of the footrest could be a little sturdier. Furthermore, there’s no safety belt attached.
- Attractive design
- Pocket on the back of propelled wheelchair for storage
- Height adjustable quick release footrests
- Folds up easily for storage
- Desk-style armrests included
- No locking brakes
- Footplates can feel a bit weak
- No safety belt included
Which Wheelchair is Right for You?
When used correctly
, the right mobility aids such as a wheelchair and a walking stick can make a massive difference to your quality of life by making sure that you can continue to enjoy an active lifestyle, no matter what your condition might be. A self propelled wheelchair gives today’s users with mobility issues more independence and control over their movement. It is excellent for people who want to feel as though they have power over their own lives.
Of course, it’s not always easy to determine what kind of wheelchair will be ideal for your needs. You might need something small, lightweight, and easy to transport, or you might think that comfort is the most important thing to focus on when choosing your chair.
Some essential features to keep in mind include:
1. Durability
How strong is your wheelchair? Will it be able to withstand different terrains outside, and does it come with puncture-proof wheels?
2. Comfort
How comfortable is the chair? What sort of cushioning is available, and is it designed for long-term or temporary use? The ideal one should make your daily routine as easy as possible without much complaints like backaches or palm soreness.
3. Brakes and Security
Does your wheelchair come with attendant brakes and parking brakes included? Is there a seatbelt provided?
4. Lightweight Design
How easy is it to carry this wheelchair around if necessary? How much does it weigh when folded down?
5. Compact Design
Can you easily fold the propelled wheelchair down so that it can be stored when not in use, or placed in the boot of a car?
6. Accessories
Are there storage bags and pockets on your self-propelled wheelchair for convenience when you’re out and about?
7. Customisation
Can you remove the armrests and footrests on the chair, or adjust their height to improve the comfort of the user?
Choosing Your New Wheelchair
Finding the best lightweight self-propelled wheelchair isn’t always easy. There are a lot of options on the market, and you’ll need to make your decision based on the features that matter most to you.
From our time looking at lightweight folding wheelchair reviews, we think that the Elite Care ECSP01-18 could be the ultimate choice. Designed with comfort in mind, this lightweight wheelchair features a removable seat cushion as well as a padded backrest. It also comes with height-adjustable swing-away legrests. For security purposes, this self propelled wheelchair includes a lapbelt, heel and calf straps, plus attendant slowing hand brakes and park brake. Not only that, all of the functions are easy to use with push-button quick-release wheels, making your trips out as smooth as possible.
We hope you love our top choice as much as we do but, if not, then I am sure there will be something else on our list of wheelchairs that will be perfect for you.
Good luck finding the wheelchair you need to enhance your quality of life.