13 Types of Wheelchairs Explained: Manual, Electric, Bariatric & More

Wheelchairs come in many designs, each developed to support different mobility needs, physical conditions and environments. From lightweight manual chairs to advanced powered mobility systems, modern wheelchair technology provides a wide range of solutions for independence and accessibility.

If you are wondering what are the types of wheelchairs, understanding the differences between wheelchair designs can help individuals, carers, healthcare professionals and support coordinators choose the most suitable mobility solution.

This guide explains the most common wheelchair types used in hospitals, disability support, rehabilitation, aged care and everyday mobility. You can also browse our full wheelchair range here.

Types of Wheelchairs

The following are the most common wheelchair types. Each type is designed to support different levels of independence, transport requirements and comfort needs.

1. Manual Wheelchairs

The manual wheelchair is one of the most widely used mobility aids. These wheelchairs are propelled by the user or pushed by a caregiver and do not require batteries or motors. They are valued for durability, reliability and ease of maintenance — commonly used in hospitals, rehabilitation facilities and home environments.

Active wheelchairs are designed for users with sufficient upper body strength to self-propel — lightweight and responsive for everyday environments. Transit wheelchairs are intended to be pushed by another person, with smaller rear wheels and compact frames for easier transport and storage.

Explore options: View Manual Wheelchairs →

2. Electric Wheelchairs

Electric wheelchairs use battery-powered motors controlled by a joystick, allowing users to move with minimal physical effort. They are recommended for people who lack the strength or endurance to propel a manual wheelchair for extended periods.

Indoor models have compact frames for navigating through hallways and doorways. Outdoor models feature stronger motors, larger wheels and suspension for uneven terrain.

Explore options: View Electric Wheelchairs →

3. Folding Electric Wheelchairs

Folding electric wheelchairs combine motor-powered mobility with a compact foldable frame — ideal for users who travel regularly or need to store the chair in a car boot. Most fold down to fit standard car boots without disassembly.

Explore options: View Folding Electric Wheelchairs →

4. Rigid Frame Wheelchairs

Rigid frame wheelchairs have a fixed non-folding frame. Because there are fewer moving parts, they are often lighter and more efficient for self-propulsion — commonly preferred by experienced active users who want improved performance and responsiveness.

5. Positioning Wheelchairs

Positioning wheelchairs allow users to adjust their seating posture using reclining backrests, tilt-in-space seating and adjustable leg supports. These features improve circulation, reduce pressure injuries and increase comfort for users who spend extended periods seated.

6. Paediatric Wheelchairs

Paediatric wheelchairs are designed specifically for children — with appropriate sizing, adjustability and support to accommodate growth and changing mobility needs.

Explore options: View Paediatric Wheelchairs →

7. Standing Power Wheelchairs

Standing wheelchairs allow users to transition from seated to standing using powered mechanisms. Standing functionality supports circulation, bone health and eye-level interaction with others and the environment.

8. All-Terrain Wheelchairs

All-terrain wheelchairs are built for outdoor environments with larger tyres, reinforced frames and suspension systems to handle rough terrain including grass, gravel and uneven paths.

9. Bariatric Wheelchairs

Bariatric wheelchairs are built with reinforced frames and wider seating to support higher weight capacities — available in 200kg, 250kg and 300kg rated models. The wider frame also requires extra clearance for doorways, ramps and turning areas.

Explore options: View Bariatric Wheelchairs →

10. Beach Wheelchairs

Beach wheelchairs feature wide balloon tyres that prevent the wheelchair from sinking into soft sand, giving users access to beach and coastal environments.

11. Handcycle Wheelchairs

Handcycles allow wheelchair users to propel themselves using hand pedals. Commonly used for outdoor mobility, recreation and exercise.

12. Sports Wheelchairs

Sports wheelchairs are designed for athletic activities including basketball, tennis and racing. These wheelchairs are lightweight and engineered for performance and agility.

13. Mobility Scooters

Mobility scooters provide powered mobility support using tiller steering and a comfortable seat. Commonly used by people who can walk short distances but need assistance for longer travel.

Explore options: View Mobility Scooters →

Choosing the Right Wheelchair

The most suitable wheelchair depends on physical ability, environment, daily activities and level of independence required. Healthcare professionals and mobility specialists typically assess comfort, seating support, adjustability and long-term usability before recommending a wheelchair.

Key factors to consider when comparing wheelchair types:

• Self-propelling ability — can the user propel themselves or do they need a powered chair?
• Indoor vs outdoor use — compact frames for indoor; larger wheels and suspension for outdoor
• Transport needs — folding models for regular car transport
• Weight capacity — standard, heavy duty or bariatric
• Home environment — doorway widths, turning space, ramp access
• NDIS funding — many wheelchair types are fundable under Assistive Technology

Mobility Equipment for Greater Independence

• Wheelchairs
• Mobility Scooters
• Patient Transfer Aids
• Wheelchair Ramps
• Boot Hoists for Wheelchair Transport

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common type of wheelchair?

Manual wheelchairs are the most widely used type — practical, reliable and suitable for everyday mobility at home and in the community.

What is the difference between manual and electric wheelchairs?

Manual wheelchairs are propelled by the user or caregiver. Electric wheelchairs use battery-powered motors controlled by a joystick, allowing movement with minimal physical effort — suited to users who lack the strength or endurance to self-propel.

What type of wheelchair is best for outdoors?

All-terrain and outdoor electric wheelchairs are designed for uneven surfaces with larger tyres, suspension systems and stronger motors. For travel between indoor and outdoor environments, a folding electric wheelchair with larger rear wheels is a practical choice.

What wheelchair is best for someone who can’t self-propel?

An electric wheelchair or transit wheelchair is best for users who cannot self-propel. Electric wheelchairs allow independent movement via joystick control. Transit wheelchairs are lightweight and designed to be pushed by a caregiver.

Can the NDIS fund a wheelchair?

Yes. Wheelchairs may be funded under NDIS Assistive Technology supports where they are considered reasonable and necessary for the participant’s mobility needs. Gilani Engineering is a registered NDIS provider. Request an NDIS quote here.