Written by Amanda Marten, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Bariatric wheelchairs, more commonly known as heavy-duty wheelchairs, are specialized chairs that have a reinforced frame to support more weight. Most heavy-duty wheelchairs are electrically powered, which gives people more autonomy and mobility. There are many heavy-duty power wheelchairs on the market, all with varying features and designs. Here are some of our top picks!
Bariatric wheelchairs are often referred to as heavy-duty wheelchairs, because they’re built stronger than your average wheelchair. Bariatric wheelchairs have weight capacities that usually range from 300-700 pounds, and they will have wider seats of about 20-30 inches. They are made of steel, which causes them to weigh more than average wheelchairs, but that ensures their durability!
The optimal heavy-duty power wheelchair for you may be different from the right heavy-duty power wheelchair for someone else. Each wheelchair user has a unique set of needs and preferences. That being said, we have our top 8 recommended choices and their reasonings for you to review below!
Heavy-duty power wheelchairs cost more than average wheelchairs because they have special features designed to help them safely accommodate more weight. The models on our list fall between $1800 to $5000, which is roughly the standard range for this type of wheelchair.
This might seem expensive, but there are some considerations to keep in mind when you consider financing for your new chair. According to medicare.gov, your power wheelchair may qualify for coverage through Medicare Part B if you’re not able to use a manual wheelchair and don’t qualify for a power-operated scooter. You will need a provider’s written order to demonstrate that this is a medical need along with proof of certain mobility-limiting conditions.
Although we don’t take insurance, we can provide you with an itemized receipt upon request, which you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. Most insurance companies require that you meet some criteria to be eligible for coverage, so be sure to check your policy.
Rear-wheel drive: Rear-wheel power chairs have four wheels, including two large drive wheels in the rear of the unit and two smaller castor wheels in the front for stability and maneuverability. While these chairs tend to be comfortable and offer great shock absorption, there are fewer models with rear-wheel drive due to a larger turning radius and the potential for the back tires to get stuck on obstacles.
 | Reyhee Roamer Electric Folding Wheelchair with Rear Wheel Drive and Freewheel Mode View Product |
Front-wheel drive: Front-wheel power chairs also have four wheels, but the two larger drive wheels are in the front, supported by two smaller castor wheels in the back. These models are much better at climbing over obstacles compared to rear-wheel drive models due to their robust front tires.
 | Compact Dualer FWD/RWD Power Elevating Wheelchair by Merits View Product |
Mid-wheel drive: Mid-wheel power chairs have six wheels total, including two large drive wheels in the front and four smaller wheels at the front and back for added support and fine-tuned maneuverability. While users feel more bumps on these models, since more surface area is touching the ground, they are much more stable due to the added wheels.
 | Vision Sport Electric Power Wheelchairs View Product |
Power wheelchairs are built to last, and some may last as long as 5 years or more. However, the lifetime of your power wheelchair depends in large part on how you care for the unit. Things like ensuring you’re charging the chair each night, protecting the electrical components, replacing tires frequently, and ensuring you do routine general maintenance will all prolong the life of your power wheelchair.
Everyone has different wants and needs for their ideal wheelchair. Before purchasing a heavy-duty power wheelchair, there are many features you need to consider. Let’s review some of these features below.
All heavy-duty power wheelchairs are designed to accommodate more weight than standard wheelchairs. Most heavy-duty power wheelchairs support between 300-450 pounds. Their average weight capacity is about 350 pounds. Some specialized heavy-duty electric wheelchairs support up to 700 pounds. The heavy-duty power wheelchairs in this article have a weight capacity between 300-450 pounds.
All power wheelchairs have different product weights. Some are lightweight, weighing about 65-70 pounds, and others are heavier and can weigh up to 300 pounds. These wheelchairs weigh more than standard wheelchairs because of their robust frames. Typically, companies do not include the battery weight when they show the product weight. So, when reviewing the product weight we recommend to check if the battery weight is included or not.
One of the key considerations for electric power wheelchairs is their drive range. The drive range is how far you can travel before charging the wheelchair’s battery. Most power wheelchairs can drive between 10 and 20 miles before they need to be charged. This can vary, depending on the driving terrain and the user’s weight. The lifetime of a power wheelchair battery is about one to two years before it needs to be replaced.
Heavy-duty wheelchairs have a greater seat width than standard wheelchairs. Their seat widths range from 17 to 25 inches. So, check the seat width options before purchasing your heavy-duty power wheelchair. You might want a smaller or larger seat!
Power wheelchairs have the smallest turning radius of any wheelchair. They can turn in about 20 inches of space or a complete 180-degree turn in 40 inches of space. If you use your wheelchair for primarily more indoor activities than outdoor ones, consider a wheelchair with a smaller turning radius for easier maneuverability.
Always check the product’s warranty before purchasing a power wheelchair. Most product warranties last about five years. Since power wheelchairs generally have more components than standard wheelchairs, the warranties can greatly differ. So, review the warranty in detail before purchasing.
 | Portable Large Capacity Dual Battery Electric Wheelchair Plus by SuperHandy View Product |
Earning the number eight spot and the “best on a budget” title, the Portable Large Capacity Dual Battery Electric Wheelchair Plus by SuperHandy. This versatile chair is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. It can travel up to 4 miles on one charge, has a max speed of 3.7 miles per hour, and can fold down for easier storage and portability, making it a great option for those who like to travel or go out in nature. For indoor use, the chair has an extremely compact design and is lightweight at only 40 pounds.
The chair can support up to 330 pounds and has a rear-wheel drive design for user comfort and stability. For added safety, the chair has puncture resistant tires. Finally, many of the chair’s features are adjustable, including the seat, armrests, and footplate.
 | Geo Cruiser Elite EX Heavy-Duty Power Wheelchair by Pathway Mobility View Product |
Our best “all-terrain” heavy-duty power wheelchair and number severn on our list is the Geo Cruiser Elite EX Heavy-Duty Power Wheelchair by Pathway Mobility. Weighing just 65 pounds, this lightweight power wheelchair has an exceptional number of features for its weight. It has a 4-position backrest, adjustable footrests, and large 10” tires for outdoor travel. It also has a high max speed at 5 mph, and a high per-charge travel distance at 15 miles per charge.
It can accommodate up to 350 pounds and is known for being stable over many types of terrain, including gravel, dirt, and snow due to its unique high suspension system. It also folds up easily for on-the-go use.
 | Vision Super Heavy-Duty Power Wheelchair by Merits View Product |
The Vision Super Heavy-Duty Power Wheelchair by Merits is a great option for those who need a little extra space in the chair. The model comes in six different seat sizes that range from 20 inches up to 24 inches in width. There are also multiple types of seats available depending on your unique needs, including standard pan seats, swivel seats, and a fully adjustable rehab seat.
It also has an impressive array of other features, including a 450 pound weight capacity, a high max speed of 5 miles per hour, one of the most narrow turning radiuses on the list at 20.7 inches, and the ability to travel up to 20 miles on one charge.
 | Golden Compass HD Power Chair by Golden Technologies View Product |
Our fifth-ranked wheelchair and the best option for those looking for an elevating leg rest is the Golden Compass HD Power Chair by Golden Technologies. Elevating the legs is a good way to manage positional discomfort that wheelchair users can experience from sitting for long periods. The leg rests aren’t the only adjustable part of this chair; it also has 5 seat heights, adjustable armrests, and an adjustable headrest.
This heavy-duty power wheelchair also has a high weight capacity of 450 pounds, a robust mid-wheel drive design with 6 tires, a rechargeable battery that supports 12 miles per charge, and a maximum speed of 4 miles per hour. With a narrow turning radius of 20 inches, it is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
 | Jazzy 600 ES Power Wheelchair by Pride Mobility View Product |
If you’re looking for the best battery life, consider our fourth pick, the Jazzy 600 ES Power Wheelchair by Pride Mobility. This wheelchair has the longest battery life of any heavy-duty power wheelchair on our list at 24.8 miles per charge! This gives users more flexibility and autonomy and is great for longer outdoor outings.
The chair is also exceptionally stable due to the mid-wheel drive design with 6 wheels, including 2 large wheels with great traction. It supports up to 300 pounds and has a max speed of 4 miles per hour, but a small turning radius, making it an ideal candidate for individuals looking for an indoor/outdoor hybrid model.
 | Falcon HD Portable Wheelchair with Reclining Backrest by Discover Your Mobility View Product |
Our favorite reclining chair is the Falcon HD Portable Wheelchair with Reclining Backrest from Discover Your Mobility. This chair is great for reclining to redistribute weight, which can help prevent pressure sores and increase circulation. It also has adjustable armrests and a footplate. The large, 12.5-inch wheels provide added support for any shifts in position from the wheelchair user.
This unique heavy-duty power wheelchair also has among the highest maximum weight capacities on our list at 400 pounds, a maximum speed of 3.75 miles per hour, and a 22-mile-per-charge battery capacity.
 | Foldable All Terrain Powerchair with 330 lbs. Capacity and Extended Battery Life - Robooter E60 by MedUcare View Product |
Our favorite folding heavy-duty power wheelchair is the Robooter E60 - by MedUcare by MedUcare. Although this product on our list weighs 72 pounds, it has the same weight capacity as many of our heavier heavy-duty chairs. The unit folds up easily and is easily transported for travel or running errands.
This wheelchair also travels up to 15.5 miles on one charge and the wheels are made from puncture-resistant materials. The rear-wheel design offers exceptional stability and maneuverability, especially for outdoors.
~1.png&newwidth=365&maxheight=200 "Jazzy Elite HD Power Wheelchair by Pride Mobility") | Jazzy Elite HD Power Wheelchair by Pride Mobility View Product |
Earning the top spot, and best all-around wheelchair, is the Jazzy Elite HD Power Wheelchair by Pride Mobility. This chair has a higher weight capacity of up to 450 pounds. It has 14-inch tires with anti-tip technology, making it suitable for rough, outdoor terrain.
This chair has a top speed of up to 4 miles per hour and has electric brakes for safety. It features a depth-adjustable backrest, which reclines and folds flat. It also has adjustable armrests for maximum comfort.
Having the right heavy-duty wheelchair can make a world of difference in your quality of life! You shouldn’t allow mobility challenges to hold you back from experiencing the moments that matter to you. Heavy-duty power wheelchairs are great for exploring the outdoors and also for faster and more fine-tuned movements in indoor spaces.
We believe that our number one-ranked power wheelchair, the Jazzy Elite HD Power Wheelchair by Pride Mobility is the best overall choice. This heavy-duty electrically-powered chair is exceptionally safe due to its strong frame and large tires for added traction. It also has adjustable armrests and backrests for added comfort and supports up to 450 pounds.
For more information about heavy-duty power wheelchairs and other medical equipment, be sure to visit us at Caregiver University for more information about products and caregiver resources! And for even more educational resources, check out our continuing education courses on RehabMart Academy!
Amanda Marten, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Amanda is a certified family nurse practitioner and freelance health writer. With eight years of nursing experience, she has worked in a variety of specialties including urgent care, post-surgical, intensive care, and travel nursing. She is passionate about patient education and strives to make a positive impact on her patients’ well-being.
