It’s essential not to compromise on quality when your health is concerned. But quality usually comes at a price, right? That’s why we’ll explain all about how you can get subsidies and exemptions for your scooter at the end of the reviews.
You also have to acknowledge what type of scooter is suitable for your needs. Feeling pressured by the plethora of models available and your need to move unassisted, you risk settling on the wrong model.
That’s why you should take a look at the following reviews which emphasise both pros and cons of some of the best mobility scooters the UK market has to offer.
Table of Contents
Mobility Scooter Reviews
It’s important to choose the right product for your needs. You should take into account factors like terrain type, maximum speed, maximum range, and safety features. You should also consider how comfortable your scooter is according to your size, shape, and preexisting medical conditions. Don’t neglect storage capacity, especially if you’re planning to go on trips or shopping.
We used these factors to select the best electric mobility scooters for you. We’ve discussed all their features in terms of your needs, so you can choose the right model. Read along!
Elite Care Boot Scooter ST1: best foldable mobility scooter
Although it’s one of the easiest scooters to control, remember that ST1 has a maximum speed of 4 mph and it can only get to 6 miles tops. You also need to charge it more frequently than other scooters because it has a smaller battery type.
That said, this is a comfortable and lightweight scooter that you can take apart easily so that it’s a good mobility scooter for car boots. That’s because its connections are plug and wire-free and its parts split easily. You can remove the seat easily too, and you get a lifting handle for extra portability.
Although you’re not going to be in this scooter for a lot of time because its battery runs out fast, you will find a very comfortable scooter. For instance, you can adjust its height, armrests, and handlebars to fit your shape. The profiled seat is well padded so that it can help you keep a correct posture and cushion your body.
Another reason to choose the ST1 Mobility Scooter by Elite Care is its wide range of safety features. This scooter has a loud horn, reflectors and lit controls for extra visibility, plus an anti-rollback device that doesn’t let you fall when you’re on steep terrain. Another advantage is that the seat swivels to 360ᵒ so that you can easily get on or off the scooter.
VELECO Faster 4 Wheeled Mobility Scooter review: best mobility scooter for steep hills
Keep in mind that this isn’t suitable for car boots because you can’t fold it and it weighs 19 stones. However, it’s very sturdy and comfortable thanks to the padded seat and lumbar support. You can also adjust the armrests and seat, which tilts from front to back.
As such, this Faster scooter is more powerful than others. Its 1000W motor can reach a maximum speed of 16 mph, and the scooter can take you as far as 35 miles before the battery runs out. Choosing this scooter means you’ll have a lot of freedom for longer journeys on different terrain.
The first reason is you can adjust the driving speed on three gears, according to the terrain type or local rules. You also get full lighting options to make your drive safe even when you’re out in low light. Besides, the four wheels are very stable when you’re travelling on uneven terrain especially considering their diametres. Lastly, the front and rear suspension system will absorb shocks and help you ride comfortably.
But even though VELECO Faster is good for uneven terrains such as grass or a country road, it’s not a heavy-duty, all-terrain scooter. As such, you can’t use it comfortably on very rugged terrain although all its features recommend it as your best choice for steep hills.
Elite Care Pride Go-Go Elite Traveller: best lightweight mobility scooter
Pride Go-Go offers you other benefits apart from being lightweight. For example, you can ride this scooter on various terrain types, although not very rugged ones. Still, it’s convenient to get a foldable scooter that you can use indoors and outdoors, on the pavement, short grass, or country roads. You can even ride the Pride Go-Go uphill on mild slopes.
Besides, this scooter is very comfortable thanks to its adjustment options and cosy padding. Another advantage is that the chair swivels to 360ᵒ so that you can get in and out quickly.
However, remember that Pride Go-Go is a boot scooter so that it reaches 4 mph top speed and 8 miles total range.
If you get this scooter, you will also benefit from good safety features. Pride Go-Go has reliable front LED lights, LED kerb light, as well as puncture-proof tyres.
VELECO Electric Mobility Scooter review: best 3 wheel mobility scooter
Besides, this VELECO Retro Style Mobility Scooter is a Class 3 medical vehicle, which means you can use it on different road types. Its 650 W motor is less powerful than VELECO Faster’s motor, but it can also take you to a maximum speed of 16 mph.
The maximum range varies between 25 and 35 miles on a total charge. That’s because VELECO Retro’s battery lasts longer on even terrain, but it depletes faster when you’re going uphill. Besides, unlike VELECO Faster, VELECO Retro is less stable on steep terrain because it has only three wheels.
You will also notice that the design is good for the tall and heavy, or even two people. Firstly, the chair dimensions show plenty of available space to stretch your legs. Secondly, this scooter holds up to 199 pounds.
Another reason to choose VELECO Retro is its safety features. You have an auto-braking system that works seamlessly, rearview mirrors, good lighting, and an alarm. The scooter is also packed with user-friendly features such as LED display, lots of storage room, as well as a remote controller.
TGA Mobility All Terrain Class 3 Mobility Scooter: best all terrain mobility scooter
This mobility scooter has a smaller range than the two VELECO models above considering its maximum range is about 20 miles. However, it has better suspensions and wheels that absorb shocks and help you navigate very rugged terrain.
You can go on tall grass, mud, and even rocky hills without worry. The first reason is the mono-shock absorber technology in the back wheels’ suspension system. This technology is best for absorbing shocks and keeping you comfortable on bumpy terrain.
Besides, the 5-spoke alloy wheels with pneumatic tyres can easily climb difficult terrain. You also get front and back bumpers that protect you from obstacles.
You can also rest assured the TGA Mobility Vita X is comfortable and contouring. The padded seat supports your body in a correct position and distributes your weight evenly so that you won’t feel any pressure points. Besides, you can adjust the seat easily to your shape and size. You can even rotate it to make your transfers easier.
Another reason to choose TGA Mobility Vita X is its wide range of user-friendly features. For instance, you get plenty of storage space to pack your things in the front and the back. You also benefit from bright and durable LED lights and indicators, and an intuitive display. Besides, this scooter can support a maximum weight of 25 stones.
Drive Devilbiss Automatic Folding Scooter by Remote Control: best mobility scooter for car boots
Drive Devilbiss has other advantages apart from being easy to fold. It’s also compact so that it fits into even the smallest car trunks. It’s also lightweight as it weighs just 27.5 kg so that you can pick it up and place it into the trunk quickly.
Another reason to get the Drive Devilbiss Scooter is its comfortable design. The backrest, seat, and armrests are well-padded so that you can maintain a relaxed, and natural posture without any pressure points that would trigger your pain. Besides, you also have plenty of room to stretch your legs.
However, remember that this scooter is not best for rugged terrain although it can handle slopes well thanks to its anti-rollback system and reliable battery. That said, this scooter is best for short rides, plane trips, and cruises.
But don’t think you’ll get a flimsy scooter. In fact, Drive Devilbiss Scooter is solid thanks to its puncture-proof tyres and sturdy design that holds people up to 19.7 stones. This machine is also very safe thanks to its electromagnetic brake system, plus anti-tip wheels.
FAQ
Now that you’re here, you probably have your heart set on one of the scooters above. We described six top models on the market, but you may still have some additional questions.
In this next section, you’ll find out how to choose the best scooter for your needs. Here are the most common questions and the correct answers below:
Types of mobility scooters
There are three types of mobility scooters: small, medium, and large.
Small scooters are foldable and portable so that they fit well in your car boot because they have lighter frames. That also means they support a lighter weight.
Besides, you can only travel for a limited distance and speed with a small scooter. Most of these scooters go up to 4 mph, but that means they’re easy to control. If you need a faster boot scooter, choose one of the Elite Care models above.
Remember these boot scooters are best for indoor use and pavement. If you want a foldable boot scooter for various terrain types, you can consider Pride Go-Go by Elite Care.
Medium scooters are stronger and go faster. Most of them can reach speeds of 6 mph, but you can’t fold them and so they probably won’t fit into your car boot. If you want a medium scooter that goes faster than 6 mph, choose one of the two VELECO models above. However, VELECO Faster is better for steep terrain because it’s more stable.
Most medium scooters also go to about 20 miles. If you want a scooter with a bigger range, the VELECO scooters above go to at least 25 to 35 miles.
Large scooters like TGA Mobility Vita X are best for all types of terrain because they’re rugged and offer good shock-absorbing mechanisms. These scooters can withstand more weight, up to 30 stones maximum. However, they’re bigger and you need more storage space.
Also remember that the Department for Transport classifies all electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters into two categories:
Class 2 scooters are recommended to all age groups, but they’re slower and they’re restricted to pavement use. Class 3 scooters are stronger and faster, but you have to register them with DVLA and be at least 14 years old to drive them.
Pro tip: Regardless of the type of scooter you choose, remember to get one that feels comfortable for long periods. You should also consider things like ease of transfer, storage, and safety features. That’s why we selected only safe mobility scooters with ergonomic designs to help you make the best choice.
How to get a mobility scooter for free or help towards the cost
You can find plenty of helpful advice on how to get a mobility scooter for free or at a fraction of its cost on the NHS website.
For instance, if you need help with funding for your scooter, get in touch with the Better Mobility Foundation. You should also research the Motability Scheme for help leasing a scooter. This scheme may also allow you to use your benefits so that you can purchase a scooter.
Another thing you can do is research if you’re available for a VAT exemption when purchasing your scooter. If you meet the criteria for chronically disabled, you can apply for this exemption. All you need is a personal declaration, with no independent NHS evaluation.
How far can a mobility scooter go?
That depends on the type of scooter you choose. Small scooters may only go about 6 miles, while medium and large scooters go to up to 20 miles.
If you want the biggest range you can get, consider one of the scooters above. However, the VELECO mobility scooters can go the farthest in this review.
How long do mobility scooter batteries last?
Most top-quality scooters’ batteries are backed by 1-year warranties. However, your battery may last to twice as much on medium usage. If you only use your scooter a couple of times per week, your battery can last up to three years.
Wrap Up. Which Mobility Scooter Should You Get?
You should get the best electric scooter for your needs and, hopefully, this article helped you decide.
As such, you should consider a comfortable scooter that navigates easily on the type of terrain you need. Consider the speed, the range, as well as the ergonomic and safety features you need most. Remember to check the scooter type before purchase and whether it’s a Class 2 or Class 3 product.
Here’s a little reminder of your best options before you sign off:
- Elite Care Boot Scooter ST1 – best folding mobility scooter
- VELECO Faster – best for steep hills
- Elite Care Pride Go-Go – best lightweight mobility scooter for indoor and outdoor use
- VELECO 3 Wheeled Scooter – best three-wheel mobility scooter for heavy people
- TGA Mobility Vita X Deluxe – best all terrain mobility scooter
- Drive Devilbiss Automatic Folding Scooter – best car boot mobility scooter