Top 5 Folding Electric Wheelchairs for Narrow Indoor Use (2026)

One of the biggest challenges for powerchair users in the UK is the size of our homes. Many “all-terrain” or heavy-duty chairs are simply too wide to pass through standard internal doors or maneuver around a tight kitchen island. If your chair can’t spin on the spot, you’ll find yourself constantly “shunting” back and forth just to turn a corner.

In 2026, the best indoor powerchairs focus on two specs: Overall Width and Turning Radius. We have selected the top 5 folding electric wheelchairs that excel in confined spaces, allowing you to move through your home with confidence.

At a Glance: Best Narrow-Profile Powerchairs

Model	Total Width	Turning Radius	Folding Style
MAS Mobility Auto-Fold	58cm	80cm	Automatic
Lightweight Intelligent	60cm	85cm	Manual
Drive DeVilbiss AirFold	59cm	82cm	Manual
Soft-Start Auto-Fold	61cm	90cm	Automatic
Adjustable Aerospace	62cm	92cm	Manual

1. MAS Mobility Automatic Folding Powerchair

The MAS Mobility chair is our top pick for indoor use because of its exceptionally slim profile. At just 58cm wide, it can comfortably pass through even the narrowest internal doors (which are often 60cm–65cm in older UK cottages).

• Pros:
  1. Ultra-Narrow Build: The frame is tucked in tight to the seat, reducing the risk of scuffing your door frames.
  2. Spin-on-the-Spot: The mid-wheel drive geometry allows for a very tight 80cm turning radius.
  3. Automatic Folding: Since space is at a premium indoors, being able to fold the chair into a compact cube at the touch of a button is a huge advantage for storage.
  4. Quiet Brushless Motors: The motors are whisper-quiet, which is much more pleasant for indoor conversation.
  5. Sensitive Joystick: The controller allows for “millimetre-perfect” movements, essential for navigating near furniture.
• Cons:
  1. Low Ground Clearance: Not designed for high door thresholds or deep-pile carpets.
  2. Small Rear Wheels: While great for indoors, they can feel bumpy if you take the chair onto a gravel driveway.
  3. Joystick Position: The joystick adds about 10cm to the length; you may need to swing it aside to get close to a dining table.

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2. Lightweight Intelligent Motorized Wheelchair

This model features a “tapered” front design. Because the front castors are set slightly narrower than the rear wheels, it is much easier to “aim” the chair through a doorway without clipping the sides.

• Pros:
  1. Tapered Frame: Makes navigating tight corners and furniture much more intuitive.
  2. Soft-Touch Controls: The joystick is very light, requiring minimal effort for those with limited hand strength.
  3. Compact Footprint: It has a very short “nose-to-tail” length, meaning you won’t get stuck in small lifts or hallways.
  4. Memory Foam Comfort: One of the most comfortable stock seats for users who spend a lot of time indoors.
  5. Easy-Glide Freewheel: If you need to be pushed by a carer indoors, the freewheel mode is exceptionally smooth.
• Cons:
  1. Rear Width: The rear wheels are slightly wider than the MAS model, so measure your doors carefully.
  2. Manual Fold: Requires a physical latch release to fold it for storage.
  3. Storage Access: The under-seat basket is small and can be tricky to reach while seated.

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3. Drive DeVilbiss AirFold Powerchair

While famous for being lightweight, the AirFold’s carbon fibre frame is also incredibly thin. This gives the chair a “minimalist” profile that makes a small room feel less cluttered when the chair is in use.

• Pros:
  1. Minimalist Profile: The thin carbon fibre tubes take up less visual and physical space than bulky alloy frames.
  2. Tight Manoeuvrability: Very responsive steering that handles sharp 90-degree hallway turns with ease.
  3. Lightweight for Carers: If a carer needs to move the chair manually in a tight space, the 22kg weight makes it effortless.
  4. Removable Battery: You can charge the battery away from the chair, so the chair can stay folded in a corner.
  5. Breathable Fabric: Prevents the user from getting too warm when using the chair indoors during the winter with the heating on.
• Cons:
  1. Turning Speed: It can be quite “zippy”; we recommend using the lowest speed setting for indoor use.
  2. Price Tag: Carbon fibre is a premium material, making this a more expensive choice for indoor-only use.
  3. Footrest Projection: The footrest sticks out slightly further than the MAS model.

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4. Automatic Folding Mobility Powerchair (Soft-Start)

This is the best choice for users who are worried about “bumping” into furniture. The Soft-Start technology ensures the chair never lunges forward, giving you total control in tight spaces.

• Pros:
  1. Precision Take-off: No “jerking” when you push the joystick, which prevents accidents in narrow kitchens.
  2. Auto-Folding Ease: Folds itself down to the size of a large suitcase for easy storage under a stairs cupboard.
  3. Anti-Tip Safety: Features small rear stabilizers that don’t add to the width but provide security on internal ramps.
  4. Flip-up Footplate: Allows you to tuck your feet in close to the chair when getting in and out.
  5. Solid Build: Feels very robust and doesn’t “creep” or roll when the brakes are engaged.
• Cons:
  1. Wider Footprint: At 61cm, it may be too wide for some narrow bathroom doors.
  2. Weight: It is heavier than the AirFold, making it harder to move if the battery is dead.
  3. Slow Fold: The folding mechanism is safe but slow, which can be annoying in a narrow hallway.

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5. Electric Wheelchair Adults Adjustable Aerospace

This model is ideal for users who need a narrow chair but also require a reclining backrest for comfort. It manages to offer high-end adjustment features while remaining under 63cm wide.

• Pros:
  1. Adjustable Posture: Allows you to change your seating angle throughout the day to prevent stiffness.
  2. Side Transfers: The armrests flip up completely, making it the best narrow chair for transferring to a sofa or bed.
  3. Puncture-Proof Tyres: No risk of leaving black marks or needing maintenance on your indoor floors.
  4. Ergonomic Headrest: Great for those who spend longer periods in the chair and need neck support.
  5. High-Back Support: Offers much better spinal alignment than standard “low-back” travel chairs.
• Cons:
  1. Largest Width: The widest chair on this narrow-focused list; check your narrowest doorway before buying.
  2. Folded Size: Because of the backrest, it doesn’t fold as “small” as the MAS Mobility cube.
  3. Turning Circle: Needs slightly more room to perform a full 360-degree turn.

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Managing Your Mobility at Home

Measure Twice, Buy Once

UK door widths vary wildly. Before purchasing, measure the “clear opening” of your doors (the space between the door stop and the door itself when open at 90 degrees). Most indoor chairs require at least 60cm–62cm of clearance to allow for your hands on the joystick.

Transitioning to Home Seating

Even the best indoor powerchair shouldn’t be a substitute for a supportive armchair. If you find it difficult to transition from your narrow chair to a sofa, you might benefit from a dedicated lift chair or a riser recliner designed for home comfort. This ensures you maintain proper circulation and posture throughout the day.

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