We independently evaluate the products we review. When you buy via links on our site, we may receive compensation. Read more about how we vet products and deals.
The best mobility scooter for 2024, according to experts
Enjoy more power and flexibility when moving outside the home with mobility scooters from brands like Pride and Gladiator.
Aging isn't for the faint of heart, but the proper support can make the challenges more manageable. Nearly half of all adults over 65 need help with mobility, be it a cane, walker, wheelchair or mobility scooter. With people in this age group expected to double in number by 2060, the market and options for electronic mobility devices are expected to grow.
Best overall
Pride Travel Pro 3-Wheel
Best affordable option
Zipr Roo 3-Wheel Mobility Scooter
Best all-terrain
Gladiator High Performance 4-Wheel Scooter
Best for long distances
Merits Silverado Extreme 4-Wheel Heavy Duty Mobility Scooter
Best heavy duty
Afiscooter S4 Upgraded Off-Road-Wheels 4-Wheel
Best travel-friendly choice
SNAPnGO Electric Travel Mobility Scooter
Best easy to fold
EV Rider Transport AF+
Most comfortable
Drive Medical King Cobra Executive Power Scooter
Mobility scooters provide a newfound sense of freedom and ease for many of those who struggle with traditional mobility aids. Technological advancements mean that these scooters now offer features like longer battery life, ergonomic design and improved stability, making them a practical choice for daily use. That said, the numerous options can make picking the right scooter an overwhelming task.
With professional medical advice, however, you can make a well-informed choice. Drawing from my experience as an intensive care nurse along with advice from two professors of occupational therapy, I’ve thoroughly reviewed the best mobility scooters available. This article covers essential features, selection tips and a comprehensive ranking of top models, ensuring that you'll find the perfect fit for your needs.
Table of contents
Best overall mobility scooter
Cost: $699 | Weight limit: 275 lbs | Travel range or battery life: 6.3 miles | Weight of scooter: 92 lbs (with battery pack) | Folding design: No | Max speed: 4 mph
This nippy little scooter has everything. The Pride Mobility Travel Pro Premium 3-Wheel Mobility Scooter is maneuverable, transportable, comfortable, reliable and affordable, so it deservingly takes our top spot.
Boasting a 4.5-star rating on Amazon, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. One reviewer said, "Awesome product and perfect in-house maneuverability and in tight areas — perfect for my needs and I highly recommend." Another commented, "This little scooter is small but mighty. She’s very fast and so far I’ve taken her out a few times and the battery has never come off of full [sic]."
The three-wheel design offers a balance between maneuverability and stability. Its tight turning radius makes it ideal for navigating narrow spaces like shopping aisles or small apartments. Although compact, the scooter has a sturdy frame, an adjustable, fully padded seat and a convenient front basket.
However, some people have commented that the scooter is small, so another option may be more suitable if you're big or tall.
Despite being made by the well-known American brand Pride Mobility, this model is also one of the most affordable mobility scooters on the market. It comes with a 5-year manufacturer's warranty on the scooter, plus a 6-month warranty on batteries. Not bad for under $700!
- No-frills mobility scooter
- Low price
- Small turning radius for tight spaces
- Doesn't fold but can be disassembled into five pieces
- Two-handed operation
Other mobility scooters we like
Cost: $700 | Weight limit: 265 lbs | Travel range or battery life: 12.4 miles | Weight of scooter: 90 lbs | Folding design: Yes | Max speed: 3.7 mph
A mobility scooter is a considerable investment, with some models costing several thousand dollars. But not the Zipr Roo 3-Wheel Mobility Scooter, which delivers everything you need in an affordable package.
"Absolutely a must for elderly who have difficulty walking. Has all the bells and whistles. Lights, horn, speed control, forward backwards. Easy on and off. Arms pull up both side [sic]," said one happy Amazon reviewer. "100% happy! Prompt delivery! Easy to assemble! It’s the perfect scooter," said another.
This American-engineered scooter costs just under $700 but offers the same features as more expensive models. It's designed to support up to 265 pounds safely and can travel up to 12.4 miles on a single charge, making errands quick and easy. It also has a tight turning radius, comfortable seating, and folds into a car trunk in seconds.
Although it has many great qualities, some reviewers feel the scooter's seat isn't super comfortable, and others mention that the low wheelbase can make maneuvering on varied terrain tricky.
- Low cost
- Long battery life
- Folding design
- Padded seat
- Compact design for easy maneuverability
- Lower weight limit than larger models
- May be outperformed by higher-end models
Cost: $2,987 | Weight limit: 400 lbs | Travel range or battery life: 22 miles | Weight of scooter: 58 lbs | Folding design: No | Max speed: 8 mph
There are lots of options for all-terrain mobility scooters that allow you to travel across all kinds of surfaces. The Gladiator High-Performance 4-Wheel Scooter is one of the best.
The fully adjustable ATV-quality suspension guarantees a smooth and comfortable ride, no matter the terrain. The efficient, high-torque motor means you can climb steep inclines, ramps and hills without a second thought and the rear anti-tip wheels provide additional security and stability against tipping backward.
Although this high-performance scooter packs a lot of features, it's only 24 inches wide. It conveniently disassembles to fit in a car trunk, with the heaviest part weighing 62 pounds. Plus, the contactless batteries, lift off and on without plugs or wires, further simplifying transportation. But if you're looking for a scooter that folds quickly into smaller spaces, the Gladiator is likely too large.
- ATV-quality suspension
- Range of 22 miles
- Available in a 3- or 4-wheel model
- Fold-down captain's seat with memory foam
- Optional swivel seat, cargo bin and carrier
- Size can make this scooter difficult to use in small indoor spaces
- Doesn't fold, must be dismantled or transported whole
Cost: $5,338 | Weight limit: 450 lbs. | Travel range or battery life: 55 miles | Weight of scooter: 291 lbs. | Folding design: No | Max speed: 9.6 mph
Sometimes you want to travel beyond your neighborhood and enjoy the great outdoors, but a standard scooter's range won't cut the mustard. If you opt for the Merit Silverado Extreme, however, there's no problem. This scooter gives you far greater freedom, allowing you to travel for up to 55 miles between charges.
It boasts a robust 2,200-watt motor that delivers exceptional power and impressive battery life, ensuring you can venture out without the worry of recharging.
One user said, "Gives me freedom to do trails. Climbs hills and goes over rough terrain very well," and a second stated that the scooter "Improved my quality-of-life. Large tires for traveling on gravel roads and uneven terrain, Longest range between charges of any other scooter." On the down side, some people mentioned that the turning radius is wide, so it's not very maneuverable in tight spaces, but that's a price you have to pay for a large scooter.
The scooter is also a great option for larger individuals (it has a weight limit of 450 pounds), and features a full suspension system with shock absorbers to ensure a smooth ride.
- 55-mile travel range
- 16-inch all-terrain tires
- 5-inch ground clearance
- Speed adjusting for downhill travel
- 2,200-watt motor
- Large size can make indoor use difficult
- Other models have higher weight capacity
Cost: $5,399 | Weight limit: 550 lbs. | Travel range or battery life: 37 miles | Weight of scooter: 342 lbs. | Folding design: No | Max speed: 11.2 mph
The Afiscooter S4 tops our list of heavy-duty scooters thanks to its quality engineering and 550-pound weight capacity. This scooter accommodates a wide range of users without losing performance, with options for standard or wide orthopedic seats that ensure excellent support and comfort for longer rides.
Afikim, a leader in the electric vehicle industry for over 40 years, manufactures the S4. It's designed with high ground clearance and durable construction, making it ideal for various terrains and weather conditions.
Equipped with powerful, long-lasting LED headlights for enhanced visibility and a shock-absorbing front bumper for driver protection, the S4 prioritizes safety. It also offers multiple extras, such as seat belts, double seats, canopies and golf bag holders.
While it requires a higher investment, its superior build and reliability make the S4 a solid choice.
- 550-lb. weight limit
- Wider rear wheels for added stability
- Extra wide seat and bariatric upgrade options
- Adjustable orthopedic seat and controls for added comfort
- Heavy scooter does not fold
- Cost and size
Cost: $1,499 | Weight limit: 300 lbs. | Travel range or battery life: 15 miles | Weight of scooter: 35 lbs. (with battery pack) | Folding design: Yes | Max speed: 6 mph
The SNAPnGO Deluxe is designed with the traveler in mind, combining portability, ease of use and reliable performance into one small package.
Weighing only 38 pounds without the battery and featuring a foldable design, this travel-friendly choice can be effortlessly stowed in the trunk of a car or taken on public transportation. The quick-fold mechanism ensures that you can transition from riding to carrying in seconds, making it easy and convenient for when you're on the go.
One Amazon reviewer wrote, "I wanted a lightweight scooter that was foldable, had long battery life, was well built, but was compact enough to be used in airports and cruise ships. After a couple of months of use, I can report that the SNAPnGO fills the bill almost perfectly!"
Despite its lightweight, compact design, the SNAPnGO features a powerful 250-watt brushless hub motor that provides smooth and quiet operation. With a top speed of 6 mph and a range of up to 15 miles on a single charge, it's more than capable of handling a full day of sightseeing or shopping.
It's worth noting, though, that some users say the scooter doesn't feel as secure and stable as others, and it's expensive for what you get.
- One of the most lightweight options on the market
- Folds quickly with compact design
- Longer distance range, ideal for airport travel
- Three speed options
- Lifetime frame warranty
- Multiple steps to collapse and set up scooter
- Three-wheel lightweight design not ideal for outdoor use
Cost: $2,250 | Weight limit: 250 lbs. | Travel range or battery life: 10 miles | Weight of scooter: 44 lbs. | Folding design: Yes | Max speed: 3.8 mph
If you're in the market for a folding scooter, the EV Rider Transport AF+ is a top choice. It stands out from other comparable models by folding down at the touch of a button, allowing it to fit into small spaces with ease. Weighing only 44 pounds, including the battery, it is among the lightest scooters in its class. The combination of these features makes storage and transport simple, even for those with mobility challenges.
One Amazon reviewer states "I really like this scooter because it is lightweight and it has the automatic open and close feature, it's so easy to operate!!!" Another says "Very easy to maneuver and now I look forward to mall shopping again."
Although one of the smaller scooters on this list, the EV Rider delivers remarkable performance. It features a powerful 270-watt motor that provides smooth acceleration and a top speed of 4 mph, making it perfect for navigating through crowded areas. With a driving range of up to 10 miles on a single charge, this scooter is ideal for all-day use.
Not everyone is impressed with it, though. Some mention that it's too heavy to lift and that charging the batteries is tricky.
- Folds in seconds by pushing the remote control
- Lightweight design for easy transport
- Compact design for easy navigation indoors
- Less motor power and speed than larger models
- Weight limit and seat sizing may be prohibitive
Cost: $5,398.50 | Weight limit: 450 lbs. | Travel range or battery life: 35 miles | Weight of scooter: 363 lbs. | Folding design: No | Max speed: 11 mph
Arthritis, back issues and chronic pain conditions can make sitting for any amount of time an uncomfortable experience. However, the Drive Medical King Cobra Executive Power Scooter has been designed with these challenges in mind, making it the best choice for those who need maximum comfort.
The extra-wide, padded captain’s seat is fully adjustable, allowing users to customize their seating position. The high backrest, padded armrests and headrest ensure that even long journeys are enjoyable. The seat also swivels for easy access, adding another layer of convenience for users with limited mobility.
The King Cobra has an advanced full suspension system that absorbs shocks and bumps. Its smooth and comfortable ride minimizes discomfort even over rugged, rough terrain. Additionally, the one-touch tiller adjustment (that's the T-shaped steering column for controlling the front wheels) allows you to easily position the tiller into the ideal driving position — no more aching shoulders!
Although the King Cobra offers high comfort levels, it also comes with a high price tag. There are other scooters on the market offering similar features at a lower cost.
- Height-adjustable captain’s swivel chair seating
- Reclining backrest and padded armrests
- Upgraded suspension and low-profile tires for a smooth ride
- Ergonomic controls and one-touch adjustments to the steering column
- Cannot be folded or broken down for easy transport
- Scooter cost and weight may be prohibitive
What to consider when buying a mobility scooter
A mobility scooter is a significant investment. You might buy a mobility scooter independently, or, in some cases, Medicare and insurance plans may cover at least some of the cost.
If you opt for the latter, your medical team will assess your needs and prescribe an appropriate device. Selecting from options covered by your health plan can streamline the decision-making process, but it's crucial to understand the differences between various models.
To find out the key factors to consider, we spoke to expert occupational therapists Karen Jacobs, program director of the post-professional doctorate in OT program & clinical professor at Boston University’s Sargent College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences and John Rider, associate professor, Touro University Nevada School of Occupational Therapy, Henderson NV, for their advice.
Based on their advice and our research, here's what to consider when buying a mobility scooter:
Type of scooter
There are two basic options:
3-wheel Scooters: Known for their compact size, three-wheel scooters offer superior maneuverability and a tight turning radius, ideal for navigating indoor spaces. These scooters might struggle more during outdoor use, particularly on uneven terrain or in adverse weather conditions like mud or snow.
4-wheel Scooters: These models provide enhanced stability with a wider base and often higher ground clearance, making them better suited for outdoor use and rough terrains. They are typically more robust and can handle a variety of surfaces, from gravel to grass to pavement. The base offers better balance, reducing the risk of tipping over, which is particularly beneficial for users who need additional support.
Dimensions
The dimensions and size of your scooter (when in its operational state or when folded) is critical for performance. If you buy a scooter that's too wide for your home's doorways, that's going to be and issue. Our experts note that it's critical to measure the dimensions of doorways and hallways in your home and other frequently visited places to confirm the scooter’s suitability. Make sure to account for hinged doors by measuring their inner openings.
Weight capacity
Ensure the scooter can comfortably accommodate your weight and any additional items you might carry, such as groceries or personal belongings.
Most standard scooters support up to 300 to 350 pounds, but heavy-duty models can handle up to 550 pounds.
Battery life and range
How far do you plan to travel on a single charge? Scooters vary widely in their battery life, with ranges typically between 8 to 55 miles. Opt for a model that meets your daily travel needs without frequent recharging.
Portability
If you plan to transport your scooter frequently, look for lightweight models that are easy to disassemble or fold. Travel scooters are designed for portability and can be broken down into manageable pieces. Some models are compatible with airline restrictions.
Comfort
Comfort is a critical factor when choosing a mobility scooter. Features like padded, adjustable seats, armrests and backrests can make a significant difference, especially for extended periods of use. Consider legroom carefully, particularly if conditions like hip arthritis make it painful to keep your legs bent. Some models offer ergonomic designs and customizable seating options, allowing for a tailored fit.
Also, consider how you'll transfer to and from the scooter — whether you can do this independently or need assistance. Choose a scooter with features that facilitate easy transfers, like swivel seats or removable armrests, which can enhance both safety and comfort.
Speed and control
You can find models with various maximum speeds, usually between 4-8 mph. Consider how fast you need to travel and ensure the scooter has easy-to-use controls.
Safety features
Look for essential safety features such as anti-tip wheels, lights for visibility, reflectors and reliable braking systems.
Additional accessories
Think about any additional useful accessories, such as baskets, cane holders, oxygen tank holders or weather covers you might need. These can enhance the functionality of your scooter.
How we chose the best mobility scooters
To find the best mobility scooters, we sought the advice of a panel of experts, including two leading occupational therapists. They provided valuable insights into mobility, potential issues and the critical attributes of mobility scooters. I also drew on my personal nursing expertise to evaluate numerous models from popular brands.
Our assessment focused on several key factors to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. We prioritized build quality, manufacturer reputation, comfort and durability. We also considered customer reviews to ensure our recommendations cater to diverse needs and preferences. Beyond these essential criteria, we evaluated cost and value for money.
FAQs
Will insurance or Medicare cover the cost of a mobility scooter?
Medicare will cover the cost of a mobility scooter under certain circumstances. To qualify, you'll need a medical condition that necessitates the use of a powered mobility device, and a valid prescription from a healthcare professional.
Additionally, the device must meet specific criteria and be issued under the Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Medicare benefit.
The Veterans Administration and some private health plans also provide coverage for mobility devices like scooters. However, these plans may have specific requirements and limitations regarding your medical condition and the type of device you choose. Always check with your insurance provider to understand the coverage details and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
Should I choose a three- or four-wheeled mobility scooter?
When choosing a mobility scooter, one of the primary decisions is whether to opt for a three- or four-wheel model. Which one's best? Well, that depends on your needs.
Three-wheeled scooters offer superior maneuverability in smaller, tighter spaces, making them ideal for indoor use. They may also be lighter and more suitable for travel.
Conversely, four-wheeled scooters are designed to handle a wider variety of terrains, making them the preferred choice for outdoor use.
Ultimately, consider where you'll be using your scooter the most and choose accordingly to ensure it's a good fit for your lifestyle.
What’s the lifespan of a mobility scooter?
The lifespan of a mobility scooter varies depending on usage, environment and maintenance. While warranties differ by manufacturer, most scooters are designed to last around 5 years.
This time frame is also the period after which you can typically request a replacement through Medicare's DME program.
Meet the experts
Karen Jacobs, OT, EdD, OTR, CPE, FAOTA, Associate Dean of Digital Learning and Innovation, program director of the post-professional doctorate in OT program and clinical professor at Boston University’s Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Boston, Mass.
John Rider, PhD, MS, OTR/L, BCPR MSCS, CEAS, ATP, associate professor, Touro University Nevada School of Occupational Therapy, Henderson, Nev.
