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Our experts have researched 20 mobility scooter brands and recommend 10 of the best options for seniors.
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Top 10 Highest-Ranked Mobility Scooters in 2023
How We Chose Our Top List
Scoot into freedom and mobility with our top 10 mobility scooter guide. We researched and evaluated criteria like available features, technology, quality, value, and pricing to choose the providers on our list. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve covered the pros and cons of every brand. If you’re searching for a mobility scooter for yourself or a loved one, rest assured that you’re in the right place.
Pride scooters come in a variety of models for indoor and outdoor use, as well as travel, outdoor terrain, and even luxury use. Seniors with different income levels can find a reliable scooter that falls within their budget. One standout is the Go-Go 4-Wheel Elite travel scooter that folds in just three steps. Another excellent choice is the sporty-looking Raptor 3-Wheel, great for going around town at speeds up to 14 miles per hour.
Range: $750–$6,000 (varies by retailer)
Scooters such as the Pride Travel Pro 3-Wheel cost $750 or sometimes even less, depending on retailer and pricing specials. The scooter comes with features such as batteries, a front basket, and a tight turning radius (great for indoor use). Optional accessories include a weather cover, rear basket, and lap belt.
FYI: If you have mobility issues and are worried about falling, we’d recommend purchasing a medical alert system. Visit our list of the best medical alert systems to learn more.
At the other end of the price spectrum is the Afiscooter S4 4-Wheel Heavy Duty Mobility Scooter, which sells for roughly $5,800. It’s an outdoor scooter that is built for comfort and stability in just about any terrain. If you’re looking for something in the middle of the price range, the sporty Raptor costs about $2,300.
Pride offers quality scooters to meet many lifestyles. Pride scooters are not cheap, but they still have enough offerings to fit most seniors’ needs and budgets. Keep in mind: You will need to consider your particular circumstances when choosing a scooter. If you need a smaller scooter that can go with you on a plane, this will limit which Pride scooters will meet your needs. Similarly, if you want a heavy-duty outdoor scooter, only some Pride models will be able to get the job done.
Drive Medical has a slate of quality scooters to choose from, including compact, heavy-duty, full-size, and recreational, all at competitive prices. Drive is highly regarded for its availability in nearly every region of the United States, thanks to its large network of third-party retailers. As an added bonus, Drive gives older adults the option to rent many of its models. This way, you can try out a Drive scooter to see if you like it before making a purchase.
Range: $900–$4,000 (varies by retailer)
Scooters like the Spitfire Pro SE 3W, the Spitfire Scout 3, and the Spitfire Pro 4W are at the low end of Drive’s price range. They’re all lightweight scooters that are easier to navigate in tight spaces. On the other end is the Cobra 4 GT Heavy Duty. It has a 450-pound weight capacity and a driving range of 35 miles. Midrange scooters include the Ventura DLX 4-Wheel, which runs for about $2,000 and comes with rearview mirrors and anti-tip wheels. You can contact Drive Medical to sign up for a test drive on a scooter in your area (assuming you have a retailer in your region) or shop through online providers.
Many local retailers allow users to test and rent scooters, making Drive Medical a great option for older adults who are shopping for their first mobility scooter. Drive Medical also keeps the needs of seniors in mind by making its models affordable, safe, and durable. It is also relatively easy to find Drive scooters in your area (regardless of where you live), even if you do not want to place an order online. Keep in mind that Drive may not be the best option for travelers, even though it does have a few smaller models that can be taken with you on the go.
EV Rider scooters tend to appeal to seniors who have minor musculoskeletal issues or who love to travel, even if it’s just around town. The CityCruzer is a travel scooter that can transport individuals of a higher weight than many other portable scooters (285-pound load capacity). Meanwhile, the Royale 4 Cargo deluxe scooter travels at speeds up to 9.3 mph and boasts an odometer and trip meter, among many other features.
Range: $800–$4,500 (varies by retailer)
EV Rider has special deals on its website for some scooters and other products, but you have to call to get access to these prices. Deals aside, you can get the Minirider scooter for just $899, complete with features such as easy disassembly and a seat with armrests. Meanwhile, the Royale 4 Cargo may cost more than $4,000 at most retailers. The RiderXpress scooter sells for about $1,399 and offers great all-around value. Various EV Rider scooter accessories include a 22-inch-wide seat for $540, a soft canopy for $200, a safety flag for $15, and a large travel case with lock for $175.
Sporty and adventurous older adults love the EV Rider brand for its designs, ease of navigation, and portability. Riders who want scooters primarily for in-home use may want to expand their search. However, scooters such as the MiniRider Folding are great for compact indoor spaces such as apartments, while still capable of being used outdoors. In short, EV Rider has many great options to meet the needs of most seniors.
Golden scooters have earned a reputation for being among the most high-quality, innovative, and stylish mobility scooters on the market. This is one of the few brands that only offers scooters built and manufactured in the U.S. The scooters come in collections such as Buzzaround, lite rider, heavy-duty, and companion to meet a range of needs. For example, the Buzzaround scooter can be used indoors or outdoors, is compact, and features tight navigation.
Meanwhile, the two heavy-duty Golden scooters are for rugged outdoor use. They offer high- weight capacities, with the Golden Avenger able to carry up to 500 pounds. The Golden Patriot has a 400-pound capacity and features four-wheel drive, as well as off-roading accessories.
Range: $900–$4,000 (varies by retailer)
The Buzzaround LT GB107D, which includes ample foot room, easy disassembly, and chip-resistant paint, sells for about $959. On the other hand, the Avenger costs about $3,500, while the LiteRider 4 Wheel costs $1,500 and comes with wireless disassembly and vinyl stadium-style seating.
Golden offers excellent options for virtually any type of scooter. Seniors who want to get around on rugged terrain should look into the heavy-duty collection, while those who spend most of their time indoors still have plenty of options. Golden scooters are primarily designed for budget-conscious consumers who still want to get high-quality scooters and accessories.
Older adults can expect quality scooters from the CTM brand. CTM got its start as a supplier of motorcycle parts for Yamaha and Suzuki in 1975. Nowadays, the company sells more than 10 mobility scooters. The HS-118 model is light and compact and can be used indoors and outdoors, although its 52-inch turn radius can pose problems in some indoor spaces. Moreover, it has a travel range of just 6.2 miles and a top speed of 4 mph. Meanwhile, the HS-890 scooter is a more heavy-duty option, with a weight capacity of 500 pounds and a maximum speed of 9.3 mph. It can go as far as 23.4 miles on one charge and traverse rugged terrains. It offers a smooth ride with a front light and turn signals.
Range: $1,500–$5,000 (varies by retailer)
For about $1,500, you can purchase the HS-125 Mini 3-Wheel for portability and travel. You can adjust its length and width, and even break it down into four parts. At the top end of the price range is the HS-740 Heavy Duty for $4,700, which has a lighting package, 7.5-mph max speed, and luxury swivel seat. In the middle, the HS-320 Three Wheel Scooter costs about $2,500 and has an adjustable tiller with headlight.
Like many mobility scooter companies, CTM offers a mix of lightweight, portable, midrange, and heavy-duty scooters. Users just need to search for the proper scooter to meet their needs, keeping in mind factors such as turning radius, indoor or outdoor use, driving range, and curb- climbing. CTM is a trusted manufacturer that offers quality mobility scooters. However, CTM scooters are on the pricier side for the industry, even if you are looking for a basic model.
Solax offers the Transformer and Mobie Plus scooters that can open up a new world of adventure to seniors. Cruises, flights, road trips, and even everyday errands may become more accessible than ever. Many portable scooters are challenging to disassemble or fold for users, but Solax’s Transformer folds and unfolds with the touch of a button.
Range: $1,800–$2,500
Solax scooter prices are similar across many retailers, so shipping costs may be your deciding factor. Always make sure to check before making a purchase, as shipping fees can significantly increase the overall cost of your mobility scooter. Fortunately, many retailers carrying the Mobie Plus and the Transformer offer free shipping.
Due to its automatic folding mechanism, the Transformer is an excellent option for traveling seniors who have lower levels of dexterity and strength. The Mobie Plus lacks the automatic mechanism, though it is still easy to use. Even though Solax only has two models to choose from, they offer enough versatility and functionality to make it one of the best providers around.
Like companies such as Pride and Drive Medical, Shoprider has a large variety of mobility scooters, but it also offers a unique product in the Flagship scooter. The Flagship’s stylish canopy enclosure aims to protect users in bad weather, which can be especially appealing to seniors who live in areas with extreme temperatures or lots of rain, wind, dust, and even crime (the doors lock). The Flagship has windshield wipers and a lighting system, and its doors are removable if you want to enjoy the wind and sunshine.
Range: $800–$7,000 (varies by retailer)
For a heavy-duty scooter, you can try the Sprinter XL4. It has a 350-pound capacity and retails for about $2,000. Shoprider also offers the Enduro 4-wheel scooter for $4,000. The Echo is one of the most cost-effective models at just $800. If you’re looking for a high-end scooter, the Flagship costs around $7,000, though it may be well worth the price for its many advanced features.
Did You Know: Even though it comes with a high price tag, Shoprider’s Flagship scooter is one of the best-reviewed mobility scooters for older adults across all major manufacturers.
Shoprider deserves careful consideration from seniors with mobility issues. Even if you decide that a scooter such as the Flagship or Sunrunner is too expensive, Shoprider offers other more affordable senior mobility scooters. Just remember that lightweight models do not offer the same features or security as higher-priced models.
Merits offers practical and affordable scooters, along with a few intriguing models like the Silverado Extreme 4-Wheel Electric Scooter. This product features a sporty, streamlined design and automatic turning safety, with a sensor to control speed while turning. Another interesting product is the Yoga Portable Folding Scooter, which works well indoors and outdoors and has a tight turning radius of 37.8 inches. Its spring suspension system is also designed to offer greater stability during turning.
Range: $900–$5,000 (varies by retailer)
At the low end of the pricing spectrum, you can buy the Roadster for about $900 and get a four-wheel scooter with an adjustable tiller, puncture-proof tires, and a weight capacity of up to 250 pounds. At the high end is the Silverado for roughly $5,000 with a 37.5-mile driving range and full suspension system with shock absorbers. Somewhere in the middle is the Pioneer 3 for about $2,000. This model has a weight capacity of 450 pounds and a maximum speed of 5 mph. If you need a bariatric scooter, the Pioneer 10 costs about $3,200.
Merits scooters are reliable and dependable, and the company is receptive to user feedback. Merits falls in the middle of the pricing spectrum for the market, and it consistently provides high-quality, durable mobility scooters. It is also one of the best brands for accessories, though you will need to consider the additional costs of the accessories you want when budgeting for your purchase.
Electric Mobility, a private company headquartered in Ilminster, Somerset, UK, makes Rascal scooters and other mobility aids and accessories. The scooters come in three categories: car transportable, midsize, and performance. They can be for indoor-outdoor use or primarily for outdoor use. However, Rascal’s presence in the United States is minimal, with only a few retailers in the country offering Rascal scooters. If you want a Rascal scooter, you may have to search through many different sellers or place an order from overseas.
Did You Know: Despite being one of the most well-known mobility scooter brands in the world, you may have a difficult time finding new Rascal scooters in the U.S. market. We’ve still included Rascal on our list, thanks to its reputation and variety of offerings.
Range: $1,000–$8,000 (varies by retailer)
Typically, the Rascal scooters sold in the United States are refurbished. You can find them through online retailers like Amazon or via individual second-hand sellers. As a U.S. consumer, it’s hard to find newer models unless you have one shipped from abroad (which will greatly increase the cost). However, you can still find older models, like the Mega Motion 8 4-Wheel scooter, brand new for roughly $1,000. While you won’t get all of the latest features available with 2023 models, you will spend significantly less on a name-brand scooter.
Rascal scooters may be a good choice for customers in the UK and elsewhere in Europe, but U.S. customers will experience fewer frustrations with another scooter company. Just the hassle of trying to find a brand new Rascal scooter can be enough to make you consider another manufacturer. That said, you can still find good deals on legacy models through certain online retailers or individual sellers.
If the Flagship from Shoprider appeals to you, then you should also consider the Afiscooter S4 Cabin from Afikim. Due to its enclosure, it offers strong protection against the elements. Afikim also has a variety of designs for older adults in need of motorized mobility assistance.
Range: $3,000–$6,000 (varies by retailer)
The Afiscooter C comes in three-wheel and four-wheel versions. Both retail for about $3,000. The three-wheel version is only 25 inches wide and can fit through narrow doorways. For about $5,000 to $5,500, you can ride in more luxury with the Afiscooter S, also in three-wheel and four-wheel versions. You can even opt for a double seat so two people can ride together, but this will increase the price.
Afikim scooters may intrigue users with a larger budget or those who want feature-rich scooters for extra comfort. If you’re looking for home-focused or compact travel scooters, we’d recommend considering other providers on our list. In any case, Afikim gets you moving around town in style if you are willing to pay a bit extra.
Now that we’ve reviewed the best senior mobility scooter brands, let’s compare them side by side.
| Brand | Average price range* | Maximum speed | Maximum weight capacity | Minimum turning radius |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pride | $750–$6,000 | 14 mph | 500 lbs | 33 inches |
| Drive | $900–$4,000 | 7 mph | 500 lbs | 35 inches |
| EV Rider | $800–$4,500 | 10 mph | 250 lbs | 38 inches |
| Golden | $900–$4,000 | 8 mph | 500 lbs | 47 inches |
| CTM | $1,500–$5,000 | 10 mph | 500 lbs | 38 inches |
| Solax | $1,800–$2,500 | 4 mph | 300 lbs | 55 inches |
| Shoprider | $800–$7,000 | 7 mph | 500 lbs | 35 inches |
| Merits | $900–$5,000 | 8 mph | 550 lbs | 35 inches |
| Rascal | $1,000–$8,000 | 18 mph | 300 lbs | 38 inches |
| Afikim | $3,000–$6,000 | 10 mph | 660 lbs | 45 inches |
* Prices will vary by retailer and model.
Mobility scooters are often called electric scooters or power-operated vehicles. These scooters are designed for those with mobility problems and provide many of the same features as power wheelchairs in a scooter design. Users must have some degree of upper-body, shoulder, and hand strength. The scooters are available in various models and designs. For example, some are designed for outdoor use on bumpy terrain, while others are designed for tight indoor use and travel. Some models can even handle both. Mobility scooters have handlebars and up to five steerable wheels. A midrange scooter should be capable of traveling 5-7 mph, though speeds vary widely by model and manufacturer.
Mobility scooters are a tremendous asset for older adults who cannot walk for long periods of time or experience joint pain when moving around. Similarly, mobility scooters help their users conserve energy, so the scooters are popular among people with poor circulation or respiratory issues. Scooters enable seniors to remain relatively mobile and independent. In fact, some people who start using mobility scooters find themselves capable of doing more than they have been able to do in years.
New mobility scooters cost anywhere between $600 to $8,000. Many users can buy a good-quality, comfortable scooter with a decent number of features for about $1,400. If you want a brand new scooter but cannot pay the cost in full, many retailers offer payment plans with relatively low interest rates so that you can pay for your scooter over time.
Did You Know: You can save a lot of money on maintenance costs by buying an insurance plan for your scooter. These are often available through the manufacturer.
You can save on upfront costs by getting a used scooter for a few hundred dollars. Just remember that if it breaks down, you will likely not have the convenience of a comprehensive warranty. Also note that mobility scooter warranties are usually not transferable, which means that they only apply to the original owner.
Medicare Part B covers 80 percent of the Medicare-approved cost of a mobility scooter as durable medical equipment (DME), but the criteria for approval are strict. You must have a doctor’s order specifying medical need, and you must be unable to perform activities of daily living such as bathing or dressing, even with the help of a walker, cane, or crutch. Your home must also provide ample space for maneuvering a scooter. Getting approval for a mobility scooter through Medicare can be tricky. However, it’s worth considering to help you save.
Linda’s Acclaimed Career in Senior Care Linda Schlenker is a comforting voice for seniors and caregivers across the U.S. For nearly three decades, Linda has helped seniors remain safe in their own homes, while helping them to regain priceless independence and peace… Learn More About Linda Schlenker
Since graduating from Harvard with an honors degree in Statistics, Jeff has been creating content in print, online, and on television. Much of his work has been dedicated to informing seniors on how to live better lives. As Editor-in-Chief of the personal… Learn More About Jeff Hoyt
