If you live with a disability that limits your mobility, a wheelchair is essential for maintaining your independence and getting where you need to go. However, before you buy a wheelchair, make sure the model meets all of your needs. The three most important things to consider when shopping for a wheelchair are functionality, comfort and cost. Start your search for the perfect wheelchair by reading the following reviews of top-rated models.

Quickie Xtender Power Assist

The Quickie Xtender Power Assist is one of the few wheelchair models to offer a manual and power option. With this unique feature, users are able to engage the Power Assist mode to propel up hills and navigate rough terrain. The Power Assist mode does require the user to turn the wheels, similar to a manual wheelchair, but it provides enough power to reduce arm fatigue and prevent rollbacks on hills. Alternately, the Power Assist mode can be shut off, allowing a companion to push the wheelchair.

In addition to the hybrid power design, the Quickie Xtender comes with a deluxe seat that is designed to contour to the body and prevent back pain. However, the seat is fixed, so there is no option to adjust the height and depth. The Quickie Xtender also comes with sturdy 14-inch wheels and a secondary set of castor wheels designed to make navigating tight areas, such as around the home, a simple task. Since this model folds down for compact storage, it is great for people who make frequent trips. With a retail price of $3,677, the Quickie Xtender is slightly cheaper than comparable electric models.

Pride Jazzy Elite HD

If you are looking for a fully electric wheelchair, the Pride Jazzy Elite HD is a great choice. One of the best features of this model is the comfortable seat. Users are able to adjust the height and depth to find the perfect positioning. The seat also distributes the user’s weight, which results in better traction. Unfortunately, the Pride Jazzy Elite comes with a standard metal foot plate that is non-adjustable, so leg space is limited.

Despite its larger size, the Pride Jazzy is capable of reaching speeds of five miles per hour. The high quality construction of this model makes each ride smooth, even when riding over bumpy terrain. However, each fully charged battery only lasts a maximum of 10 miles, so this model is best suited for users who make shorter trips. At a retail price of $3,700, the Pride Jazzy is a reasonably priced electric wheelchair.

Compass Sport

The Compass Sport is the ideal wheelchair for people who are constantly on-the-go. This fully electric chair features a six-wheel design that allows for 360-degree turns. The two powered wheels propel the chair, while the four stabilizing wheels provide a smooth ride, even in rough terrain. The Compass Sport also includes two large batteries that last up to 11 miles each on a full charge, making this model ideal for long trips. The one downside to the Compass Sport is the narrow captain chair. Although the seat is adjustable, there is limited leg room.

Since the Compass Sport handles indoor and outdoor terrain, consider purchasing a wheelchair van wheelchair van to maximize the versatility of this model and make your trips more convenient. A wheelchair van is also essential if you prefer an electric wheelchair like the Compass Sport, since many models are too large to store in trunks. Ultimately, the Compass Sport is one of the most popular electric wheelchairs on the market. However, it is priced at only $3,400, which is cheaper than many other models with fewer features.

Be sure to discuss these different options with family before purchasing a wheelchair. This is a large investment and you’ll want to make sure that you make the best decision based on functionality, comfort and cost. Evaluate these options and then invest in a chair that will help you gain more independence.