Are you looking for the best wheelchairs under $500 designed to help you move in comfort while perfectly suiting your specific medical requirements? If you answered yes to the question then you are in luck because you can now find a wide range of choices available in the market. The many choices you have, however, might cause confusion, especially if you are still unsure of what fits your specific requirements.
One great news is that most wheelchairs today are designed with the unique needs of its potential users in mind. In fact, you can find mobility wheelchairs that are specifically designed for those who are more likely to travel on a constant basis. There are also those that cater to potential users who might need to recline or tilt the unit as a means of dealing with health-related issues and improving comfort.
You can also find wheelchairs that are available in a wide range of configurations and varieties. It is even easy for you to enjoy their durability, portability, and their lightness. What is good about investing in your own wheelchair is that it guarantees comfort, freedom, and mobility. It is the solution you need to bring back the lifestyle you had before your mobility got limited.
This wheelchair is what is going to give you the support you need in performing your daily activities while still giving you the opportunity of taking on exciting and fun adventures. Once you take a hold of a wheelchair, you can even make it unique by customizing it through colorful embellishments and decorations.
In case you are still in that phase where you are looking for the best wheelchairs under $500 then you may want to consider these top choices.
Product Review: Best Wheelchairs Under $500 – Hi-fortune 21-lb. Self-propelled Manual Wheelchair
Company: Amazon via seller MegaV+ (Feedback Rating: 97%)
Who Would Buy This: Those shopping for the best wheelchairs under $500 that can supply them with mobility and make their daily activities simpler, easier, and faster to perform while also letting them have fun
- MATERIAL: This compact lightweight wheelchair for adults is made from a super-strong ultra-lightweight magnesium alloy frame features a quick-release hinge to fold down for easy storage and transport. Due to its lightweight nature, this chair is ideal to travel and can be easily checked on an airplane and loaded aboard in the cargo compartment
- COMFORT: To enhance the comfort level there are padded arm restas and swing away leg rests. The larger rear wheels provide better performance on uneven outdoor surfaces while the convenient top hand brakes make it even easier to control speed. You can use this chair self propelled or with assistance
- ASSEMBLY: No tools and essentially no assembly required. Simply attach the footrests and back safety rollers and you are done. The quick release wheel sand removable footrests make transporting the chair in any size vehicle quick and painless
- SIZE & WEIGHT: Seat width is 17.5” with a weight capacity of 220lbs. 13.5 lbs are frame only. Overall weight with wheels and footrests are 21 lbs. NOTE: The width from the outer edge of one wheel to the outer edge of the other side is 28 inches. Before you order this wheelchair, please make sure the chair will fit through your home doors and hallways
- SAFETY: Rear and hand brakes to not only make the riders times safer but also to make the assistant's job easier. The anti-tippers also enhance your safety. Overall, the chair includes a 1-year frame and components warranty against defects. Any problem, please free to contact us via Amazon e-mail
Pros:
Makes use of magnesium alloy frame – What I truly like about this usual recommendation for the best wheelchairs under $500 is that it has a frame constructed out of magnesium alloy material. One reason why I like the material is that it is lightweight. In fact, it is known for being the most lightweight structural material that anyone can use. It is also lighter in comparison to other materials that can be used for the wheelchair’s frame, including titanium, steel, and aluminum.
Despite being ultra-lightweight, I am still impressed with this magnesium alloy material because it is totally strong and sturdy. It is even long-lasting because it is not prone to deformation. Furthermore, it is fully recyclable plus pollution-free. This frame also boasts of an easy and quick to release hinge, which is extremely helpful if you want to fold it down and easily transport and store its folded version.
Extremely lightweight and easy to transport – Also owing to the material used in the frame of this transport wheelchair, I noticed how lightweight its overall construction is. It weighs only below 22 lbs., which also means that I can easily lift it up with or without assistance. Since it is lightweight, you can bring it with you on your outdoor activities.
You can even fold it up at a small and compact size, making traveling and storage easier because you can fit it in the majority of vehicles once folded. This mobility wheelchair is also designed in such a way that it can accommodate all forms of travel, including those involving riding planes. Both the removable footrests and the quick-release wheels integrated into the wheelchair also guarantee that you can transport it without any hassle.
Impressive performance on outdoor surfaces – I am also impressed with the fact that this mobility wheelchair performs excellently when used on outdoor surfaces, even those with uneven and rough terrains. I think it is primarily because it comes equipped with large and solid rear wheels. Such improves its performance when dealing with uneven and rough outdoor surfaces.
I am also glad that it has user-friendly top handbrakes as such promotes ease in controlling speed. What is even better about this mobility wheelchair is that it functions either with assistance or as a self-propelled chair.
Cons:
The plastic C clamps in the footrests are not that durable – However, note that the lack of durability of these clamps is only noticeable if you apply strong pressure to the footrests; otherwise, this specific part of this self-propelled, manual wheelchair is still capable of locking the footrests firmly in place.
Value for Money
If you wish to invest in the best wheelchairs under $500 then one of your top choices is the Hi-fortune self-propelled manual wheelchair, especially if you think about value for money. It delivers an impressive performance when used on outdoor surfaces while also being easy to transport with its extremely lightweight and foldable qualities. The integration of a magnesium alloy frame even makes this wheelchair sturdy while retaining its lightness.
Product Review: Best Wheelchairs Under $500 – Karman Healthcare S-105 Ergonomic Manual Wheelchair
Company: Amazon via seller PetroSales (Feedback Rating: 83%)
Who Would Buy This: Those who have the intention of using the best wheelchairs under $500 with an ergonomic design as well as the ability to give users a higher range of motion, thereby letting them enjoy a dynamic, fun, and active lifestyle even if they have restricted mobility.
- Seat Width 16" x 17"
- Weighs only 27 lbs
- Fixed Footrest and Fixed Armrest. Tube-in Center foot-plate, assures better side leg support. Also, folding backrest and folding seat for easy traveling
- Removable Anti Bacterial Seat and Back Cushions. Folded Width- 12 inch. Overall Open Width- 23 inch
- Globally Patented S-Shape Ergonomic Seat.Seat Width 16 inches 18 inches, Seat Depth 17 inches, Armrest Height- 8 inches, Seat Height- 19 inches, Back Height- 17 inches, Overall Height- 36 inches, Overall Open Width- 23 inches 25 inches, Folded Width 12 inches, Overall Length- 39 inches, Weight Without Riggings- 27 pounds, Weight Capacity- 250 pounds
Pros:
Designed to be ergonomic – Some of the best wheelchairs under $500 take pride in their ergonomic design and that is what you can gain from Karman Healthcare S-105, too. It is totally ergonomic because of its S-ergo and S-shape seating system. I find the ergonomic design a big plus as it means that it follows the natural functions, curves, and contours of your body. It is, therefore, comfortable while having the ability to lower your risk of suffering from scoliosis and pressure ulcer.
Another ergonomic feature of this mobility wheelchair is its armrest pad. It is ergonomic in the sense that it can comfortably support your elbow. I am also glad that there is a new design for the arm tube as such design promotes ease of movement. Furthermore, the hand rims of this chair are totally ergonomic in the sense that it becomes more flexible and comfortable. The presence of such ergonomic features makes propelling this mobility aid hassle-free.
Supportive and comfortable – Another reason why this manual mobility wheelchair caught my attention is the fact that it is totally supportive. I noticed that it specifically offers a great support to the side of your legs. It is mainly because of its tube-in center footplate. It also comes with a fixed armrest and footrest that are both useful in giving your arms and feet the support and comfort they need.
Aside from being fully supportive, it is also fully comfortable as it has a foldable backrest as well as a foldable seat. Because you can easily fold it up, bringing it for your next trips or just to roam around the neighborhood is easier.
Equipped with a safe and sturdy upholstery – The added upholstery in this ergonomic manual wheelchair is guaranteed to be safe and sturdy because it has an anti-bacterial property. What this property does is get rid, control, and resist unsightly stains and unwanted odors. I find the sturdiness and long-lasting nature of this upholstery impressive because of its ability to protect the material and the wheelchair from premature deterioration.
Cons:
The fixed armrests are not removable nor can be flipped up – Despite that, I am still satisfied with the presence of the armrests in this manual wheelchair as these are still designed for comfort and convenience.
Value for Money
I think one reason why the Karman Healthcare S-105 is considered by many as the ultimate choice for the best wheelchairs under $500 is its ergonomic design. It is mainly because such design means that this wheelchair is comfortable and supportive, too. It even comes with a safe and long-lasting upholstery, giving you an excellent return on the amount you spent when buying it.
Product Review: Best Wheelchairs Under $500 – Drive Medical Sentra Extra Heavy-duty Bariatric Wheelchair
Company: Amazon via seller Cascade Healthcare Solutions (Feedback Rating: 89%)
Who Would Buy This: Those who are narrowing down their options for the best wheelchairs under $500 so they can pick the one that can really offer them the assistance and help that they need to walk and move with ease.
- Drive Medical STD20DFA-ELR Drive Sentra Extra Heavy Duty Wheelchair - 20"x18" - Detach Full Arms/Legrest
Pros:
Up to 500-lb. weight capacity – I think one of the strongest benefits of the Drive Medical Sentra Extra Heavy-duty Bariatric Wheelchair is its high maximum weight capacity. Such strong capacity is one reason why I view it as one of the best wheelchairs under $500. This wheelchair is capable of handling such weight because most of its features are constructed to be not only heavy-duty but also strong and well-reinforced.
For instance, it makes use of highly reinforced steel gussets that add up to its strength. You can find such gussets being integrated at all points of the wheelchair that bear weight, making it extra strong. It also boasts of its heavy-gauge and well-reinforced Naugahyde upholstery. In addition, it has become so strong with the help of its reinforced side frame, dual cross bars, and caster journals.
Promotes long-lasting and durable performance – In my opinion, this benefit can be greatly attributed to the carbon steel frame used in this bariatric wheelchair. Aside from being made of the really strong carbon steel, it also boasts of a triple chrome coating for its finish. What I like about this finish is that it does not only look attractive. It is also easy to maintain while having the ability to resist chips.
Another reason for its long-lasting performance is the composite mag-style wheels that also feature chrome hand rim. Such wheels can last long without costly and extensive maintenance. Furthermore, this heavy-duty wheelchair also features precision-sealed wheel bearings both at the front and at the rear that are all helpful in further promoting a long-lasting reliability and performance.
Prioritizes patient comfort – What is remarkable about this bariatric and heavy-duty wheelchair is that it puts the comfort of patients and users on top of its priority. The 20-inch seat included in this wheelchair, for instance, is spacious and wide enough to give more than adequate room for its users.
I find it totally comfortable, too because it has well-padded armrests, elevating leg rests, and detachable full arms. With the carry pocket found at the chair’s backrest, you will also find it convenient when keeping your items and belongings secure.
Cons:
A bit heavy when lifting it up – Despite the heavy weight of this mobility wheelchair, it is still manageable. You can further manage to lift it with someone’s help.
Value for Money
For its price, this bariatric wheelchair offers a lot, which is one solid reason why many consider it as a remarkable option for the best wheelchairs under $500. You will be glad to know that it puts the comfort of its users on top of its priorities. Furthermore, there is a guarantee that it can deliver a long-lasting and durable performance while being solid enough to accommodate users up to 500 lbs.
Product Review: Best Wheelchairs Under $500 – Invacare IVC Tracer IV 22-inch Wheelchair
Company: Amazon via seller Phillips Health Care (Feedback Rating: 91%)
Who Would Buy This: Seniors, injured, disabled, and other ailing individuals who feel the need to use the best wheelchairs under $500 so they can start walking and moving again with less difficulty and enjoy their freedom.
- Durable, low-maintenance, triple chrome-plated, carbon steel frame is long-lasting. Reinforced frame includes gussetted sides, caster journals and dual crossbraces. Urethane rear tires, mounted on "no flex" wheels, offer superior performance.
- Seat Width: 22",Seat Depth: 18". Low-maintenance, dual-sealed precision bearings, Heavy-duty inner liners keep seat and back from stretching .
- Desk length fixed height padded removable Arms, 450-lb.weight limit, Dual axle positions allow variation of seat- to-floor heights
- Swingaway Footrest, Limited lifetime warranty on side frames and crossbraces
- Assembled WheelChair
Pros:
Superior durability and performance – For those searching for the best wheelchairs under $500, I highly advise the Invacare IVC Tracer IV 22-inch wheelchair because it showcases superior durability and long-lasting and heavy-duty performance. I think one feature that delivers such specific benefit is the long-lasting carbon steel frame of this unit, which also boasts of its triple chrome plating.
I find it superiorly durable because its well-reinforced and stable frame also comes with dual cross-braces, gusseted sides, and caster journals – all of which further enhance the frame’s sturdiness. Better performance can also be expected from the urethane tires integrated into the wheelchair that are mounted on wheels without flex. Furthermore, this wheelchair is known for requiring the least maintenance. The excellent durability and performance of this wheelchair is also one reason why it can accommodate users of up to 450 lbs.
Provides the ultimate solution for comfort – This Invacare mobility wheelchair does not also disappoint as far as comfort is concerned. The high level of comfort featured in this wheelchair can be due to the dual-axle positions built into it. Such positions allow variation on heights from the seat to the floor, letting you find the one, which you truly prefer.
I can also guarantee comfort from its padded removable arms as well as its desk-length fixed height. Another special fact about this wheelchair that further increases its comfort level is the heavy-duty liner at the interiors that aid in preventing the back and seat from stretching.
Long-lasting upholstery – The upholstery used in this transport wheelchair is not only attractive considering the fact that it is available in a wide range of colors but is also long-lasting. It is dual-embossed, making it both appealing and sturdy. In addition, I noticed that it is designed in such a way that it can resist a number of elements, like flame, bacteria, mildew, and possible UV damage and cold cracks.
Cons:
Slightly shallow seat – In case a heavier person sits on this transport wheelchair, the depth is a bit uncomfortable and shallow. Fortunately, its width tends to make up for the slight lack of depth.
Value for Money
With the superior durability and performance that you can expect from this Invacare wheelchair, it is no longer surprising seeing it on top of the options of those who are presently looking for the best wheelchairs under $500. It also boasts of its long-lasting upholstery capable of resisting a lot of things that might lead to damage while also offering the ultimate solution as far as comfort is concerned.
Product Review: Best Wheelchairs Under $500 – Invacare Tracer IV Heavy-duty Bariatric Wheelchair
Company: Amazon via seller Senior com (Feedback Rating: 90%)
Who Would Buy This: Those who intend to use the best wheelchairs under $500 to improve their mobility so they can enjoy the freedom to move around as they please instead of spending most of their time indoors because of their restricted and limited mobility
Pros:
Highly durable tires – The best wheelchairs under $500 are often those constructed out of large and durable tires designed to traverse various terrains and surfaces in a smooth manner. I noticed that such tires are present in the Invacare Tracer IV heavy-duty bariatric wheelchair.
The tires are constructed out of HD composite pneumatic materials with each one around 24 inches in size. It also has flat-free inserts that further boost the ability of the tires to roll smoothly and accommodate users with a max weight limit of 450 lbs. This wheelchair also features urethane rear tires that are mounted on zero-flex wheels, thereby promoting the unit’s excellent performance.
Heavy-duty and reinforced – I am also glad that this Invacare bariatric wheelchair is designed to be heavy-duty. It has a frame, which is heavy-duty and reinforced enough that it can handle the needs of active individuals who are looking for a strong, tough, and durable wheelchair to support their movements. Such frame also makes use of a strong and sturdy carbon steel frame with triple chrome plating.
The fact that it is heavy-duty while holding a strong reinforcement also means that it can stand the test of time with little to no maintenance at all. It is even noted for being the top choice of those looking for heavy-duty commercial wheelchairs, especially for use in shopping centers, airlines, as well as other commercial applications.
Well-padded armrests – This bariatric wheelchair is also a strong contender in the industry because of the high level of comfort it is capable of providing. It has removable armrests, for instance, designed to be well-padded, making it possible for users to enjoy using the chair comfortably.
Add to that the fact that such armrests are available in either desk-length or full-length also ensures that you are given the freedom to choose based on your preference and comfort level.
Cons:
Extra-charge required for the detachable and padded swing-away elevating leg rest – Still, the additional charge is worth it because it further improves the ability of this mobility bariatric wheelchair to provide more comfort.
Value for Money
When it comes to finding the best wheelchairs under $500, the Invacare Tracer IV Heavy-duty Bariatric Wheelchair is a top option offering good value for your buck considering the fact that it is full of features designed to boost its performance. It is heavy-duty and well-reinforced plus it is equipped with highly durable tires, offering real value for your invested money.
Conclusion
Shopping for the best wheelchairs under $500 is not that simple for some potential users. If you are confused with the whole selection process then one thing that you have to do is to reflect on your specific requirements first. Ask yourself why you need this mobility solution in the first place. Also, be fully aware of the specific condition that prompted you to use the wheelchair so you can find a product, which specifically targets your requirements.
Another thing that you have to take note of are the strong and notable differences in the different wheelchairs introduced to you. Check out how each one fits, feels, and responds to you when you are using it. This will give you a clearer idea of the specific things that it can let you do. Certain factors, like your gender, age, specific body type, activities you wish to do, places you wish to visit, and the diagnosis of your doctor can also contribute to your final decision.
With the many factors that play a major role in your final decision, it is just necessary for you to impose the right strategy as well as do an extensive research during the process of selecting the best wheelchairs under $500 specifically designed for you. Also, make it a point to choose a chair that showcases two important qualities – durability and comfort. It is also highly advisable to choose a wheelchair with a cushioned seat as it is known to give you a great experience when you are sitting on it.