Wheelchairs and Mobility Scooters: Buying Guide for 2026

Four categories

1. Transport chair — light, narrow, must be pushed by someone else. $150–$400.
2. Manual wheelchair — self-propelled with large rear wheels. $200–$800.
3. Power wheelchair — joystick-driven, indoor/outdoor. $1,500–$5,000+.
4. Mobility scooter — 3 or 4 wheel, outdoor-oriented. $700–$3,000.

Medicare coverage

Medicare Part B covers wheelchairs and scooters if medically necessary and you can't function safely with cane, walker, or manual chair. Requirements:

• Face-to-face exam with your physician.
• Written order from doctor + DME supplier prescription.
• Documentation you can use it safely at home.

You pay 20% after Part B deductible. Medigap usually covers the rest.

Top scooter brands

• Pride Mobility (Go-Go series) — best portable, breaks down to fit in trunk.
• Drive Medical — budget-friendly, reliable.
• Golden Technologies — heavy-duty outdoor scooters.

Top power wheelchair brands

• Permobil — premium, custom configurations.
• Quantum Q6 Edge — rehab-grade, good for tight indoor spaces.
• Pride Jazzy — well-balanced for home use.

What to consider before buying

• Where you'll use it — sidewalks need bigger wheels; indoor needs tight turning radius.
• Transport — can it fit in your trunk? Need a hitch lift?
• Battery range — most scooters do 8–15 miles; verify under your weight.
• Weight capacity — match to user's actual weight + 50 lb buffer.

Bottom line

Get a face-to-face evaluation from a physical or occupational therapist before buying — they can recommend the right type and document medical necessity for Medicare. The wrong device gathers dust; the right one transforms independence.