In this article, we compare and write extensively about transport chair vs wheelchair, treating the differences and similarities between the mobility aids.
Transport chairs and wheelchairs are among the most widely used walking aid designed for people with difficulty standing on their feet. Though they are similar, but have many differences and should not be confused with each other for effectiveness.
Selecting the correct mobility aid comes from adequately understanding the various types, functions and similarities between every mobility aid.
Here at aidemobility, we enjoy giving out the best information to help our readers select the best walking aid that suits their condition or that of their loved ones perfectly.
What is the difference between a transport chair and wheelchair?
The Fundamental Difference between Transport Chair and Wheelchair:
The primary difference between a transport chair and a wheelchair is that wheelchairs are built with big rear wheels that users can hold to propel themselves. In contrast, a transport chair has small wheels and requires the help of another person, a caregiver, to push the user from behind.
See also:
Transport Chair vs Wheelchair
| Transport Chair | Wheelchair | |
| Image |  |
 |
| Description | Transport chairs are made with smaller wheels with a maximum of 12 inches; handgrips for the caregiver. | Wheelchair, on the other hand, has big wheels at the rear end, up to 24 inches and small wheels at the front. |
| Usage | With a transport chair, there is a need for another person to push the patient from behind. | A caregiver is not needed for the wheelchair since the user can self-propel using the big wheels. |
| User | Transport chairs are more suitable for people with weak upper body/arm regions. | Wheelchair users can self-propel, and that requires a strong arm to do this. The user has to have a strong upper body/arm region. |
| Weight | Transport chairs are relatively lighter in weight when compared to wheelchairs. | Wheelchairs are heavier in comparison with transport chairs. |
| Size | The transport chairs are pretty compact than wheelchairs | Compared to transport chairs, wheelchairs take more space and are more extensive in sizes |
| Strong/Ruggedness | Transport chairs are less able to navigate rough surfaces than wheelchairs due to their smaller wheel sizes. | Wheelchairs, on the other hand, can navigate on rough surfaces better as they are strong and have big wheels. |
| Brake System | The brake of transport is incorporated into the handgrip for the caregiver to apply quickly. | Brakes on wheelchairs are not on the handgrip but situated where the user can easily reach. |
| Manoeuvrability | The caregiver easily manoeuvres the transport chairs. Also, they are easier to control since the brake is on the handgrip. This also makes it easier to use on steep planes. | Compared to transport chairs, they are not easily manoeuvred. |
What to consider when choosing a transport chair vs a wheelchair
You should get the main differences between transport chair and wheelchair from the discussed points above. Therefore, to select either of them, you need to consider the following:
Is there an availability of a caregiver?
A transport chair can be the best option if someone is available to act as a caregiver, either a professional or a member of the family that can give that help. Transport chairs are not usable for mobility if no other person will push the user around.
What is the Upper body strength of the User?
Wheelchairs are self-propel, unlike a transport chair that requires the presence of a caregiver. You cannot select a wheelchair if the user has a weak upper body. A wheelchair will require the user to push the big rear wheels themselves, which requires a decent amount of strength.
What is the space of your home?
The space around your home will also determine your choice between a transport chair and a wheelchair. Wheelchairs are bulky and oversized and may not be very effective for people living in tiny apartments with narrow doorways. Always ensure you know the width of your doorway and select accordingly.
Final Words
Which is better transport chair or a wheelchair?
Both mobility aids are designed to meet the specific needs of different people in different circumstances. Above, we highlighted what you to know about the products and when they should be employed. It is vital to select what fits your situation best. Therefore, none is better than the other; they just fit some situations more than others, and buyers select what suits them most.