For people with limited mobility, a wheelchair is an important auxiliary device that can greatly enhance the user’s ability to move autonomously and improve the quality of life. But when choosing a wheelchair, many people will face a choice: Should I get a manual or electric wheelchair? These two wheelchairs have their own characteristics and applicable scenarios. JBH Medical will analyze from multiple angles to help everyone make the right choice.
1. Usage needs and environment
- Manual wheelchairs are lighter, easier to carry and store, and are suitable for users who have sufficient upper limb strength and a spacious living environment with fewer obstacles. For example, flat indoor and outdoor environments, public buildings with elevators, etc.
- Electric wheelchairs reduce the labor of hands and upper limbs. Driven by electricity, they are more suitable for long-term or long-distance mobility needs, especially for users with weak upper limb strength and more obstacles in their living environment （such as ramps, gravel roads, etc.）.
2. Physical condition
- For people with strong bodies and good upper limb strength, manual wheelchairs can help users maintain upper limb vitality and even exercise their upper limbs to a certain extent.
- For users with insufficient upper limb strength, arthritis or other diseases that affect upper limb movement, electric wheelchairs can better meet their needs and reduce the burden on the body.
3. Economic budget
- The price of manual wheelchairs is more affordable than electric wheelchairs, and the maintenance cost is also lower.
- Due to different technologies and configurations, the price of electric wheelchairs varies greatly, and the subsequent costs such as maintenance and battery replacement are also high. Therefore, under limited budget, it is necessary to carefully weigh the cost performance.
4. Battery life and portability
- Manual wheelchairs do not have the problem of battery life. As long as the user uses both hands to push the wheelchair to walk, it is also lighter and easier to carry than electric wheelchairs.
- Electric wheelchairs have different battery capacities and battery life. When choosing, users should choose the appropriate model according to their actual travel needs. In addition, the weight and foldability of electric wheelchairs will also affect their portability. Some lightweight electric wheelchairs can be carried and stored more easily, but may sacrifice some stability or comfort. However, JBH’s carbon fiber electric wheelchair does not have the above problems. It maintains the proper comfort at a lighter weight and is available for everyone to choose.
5. Maintenance and Service
- Manual wheelchairs are relatively simple, and daily maintenance mainly involves tire inflation, bearing lubrication, etc.
- Electric wheelchairs need to pay attention to the battery status, motor operation and normal operation of the control system. Choosing a brand that provides good after-sales service will help solve problems that may be encountered during use.
JBH Medical believes that manual wheelchairs are suitable for users with sufficient strength and suitable environment, while electric wheelchairs are more suitable for users with limited strength or who need to move frequently and long distances. Budget, battery life, portability, and maintenance services are also considerations that cannot be ignored. I hope everyone can buy their favorite wheelchair products, and they can also consider JBH more. The excellent quality and service will never disappoint everyone.