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Best Power Lift Recliner

Updated: Nov 13, 2023 10:01 AM
best power lift recliner featured image that shows the top three best health & wellnes models

The best power lift recliners increase the quality of life for the elderly and people with disabilities, allowing them to reach a standing position quicker and enjoy a reclined position at different angles for napping, resting, and performing activities. Our evaluation focused on the seat and back width/depth/height, upholstery, recline range, massaging/vibrating function, and dual motors for independent movement of the back and footrests, creating a greater variety of seated positions. Power lift recliners can really make a difference in the health wellness of both disabled and able-bodied folks, so we made sure to get the best for this list.

After researching for more than 12 hours, our top pick goes to the Ashley Furniture Signature Design Power Life Recliner. This top pick is really comfortable to sit on with faux leather upholstery, independent back and footrests for more seating/laying options, and a quiet motor.

Top 6 Power Lift Recliners Compared

 #1  Ashley Furniture Signature Design Power Life Recliner – Top Pick


WHY WE LIKE IT: This power lift recliner is a dream, with a saddle brown colored, faux leather upholstery and dual motors for independent movement of the back and footrests. It is an excellent choice if you value looks and recline-ability, including a full folding flat position, for use in naps or during waking hours.

Pros
  • Firm supportive seating
  • Lays flat
  • Quiet motor
Cons
  • Fabric not breathable
  • Limited foot section range
  • Short footrest

Stand-out features on this recliner include thick cushioning, providing more of firmer seating than microfiber plush or overstuffed fabric found on our #3 Irene House and #4 Giantex. Its saddle brown faux leather also looks like real leather. It feels really luxurious when sitting or napping for extended periods.

The dual motors of this pick help operate the head and footrests independently. They create more options with seating positions for reading, playing, napping, or watching TV. A simple two-button remote control and quiet motor move the chair smoothly at a decent rate of speed without being overwhelming. A good office chair can also help those with pain.

 #2  Mcombo Electric Power Lift Recliner Chair Sofa – Honorable Mention


WHY WE LIKE IT: This is one of the best power lift recliners with heat and massage, featuring a wide recline range (up to 140 degrees). It is a great go-to chair for any elderly or limited mobility person that stands at a height of 5’1 to 5’9″, particularly for relaxing with its almost completely flat recline and pampering functions.

Pros
  • Best quality
  • Best for napping
  • Vibration and heating
Cons
  • Sensitive remote
  • Short warranty

This electric lift chair is easy to operate, using two push-button remotes that set it to various recline positions. A separate leg lift operates independently from the reclining back, allowing users to place their legs up without reclining. This chair features a nice vibrating massage function and also includes eight vibrating nodes and a waist-high heating mechanism (one of only 2 picks on our list to offer it) activated in 10, 20, and 30-minute intervals. Heated and massage seats assist with improving blood circulation and provide a buffer of warmth in cooler temperatures.

Another plus is its two USB ports for device charging and two cup holders on opposite armrests. A one-year warranty on the lift/recline mechanism, frame, and electronic parts is offered. Its anti-pill and anti-felting fabric also holds exceptionally well even after sitting on them for a long time, and it has a maximum weight of 320lbs. Check out the best office chairs for under $100 for a good budget chair.

 #3  Irene House Electric Power Lift Recliner – Best for Folding Flat


WHY WE LIKE IT: This electric power chair is solid across the board, with dual motors for independent backrest/footrest positioning, completely flat recline ability, soft cushioning, and a 300-pound weight capacity. It is an excellent power lift recliner for anyone prioritizing naps equal to or more than seated positions, with its ability to fold completely flat.

Pros
  • Dual motors
  • Folds completely flat
  • Supports up to 300 lbs
Cons
  • No massage heating
  • No USB ports
  • High cost

This chair’s best feature is arguably its dual motors, which allow the backrest and footrest to operate independently. Dual motors, if you didn’t know, help create a broader range of seating positions than one-piece power chairs like the CANMOV Power Lift Recliner Chair (#6 pick), which reclines, sits, and lifts the backrest and footrest at the same time. Assembly is also a breeze, with a quick sliding of the seat back onto the chair’s base.  If you’re looking for something to ease transportation within the home, you may want to also look for the best wheelchair ramp.

Seating is comfortable, with high-density and breathable leather cushioning on the firm medium side for a warm ‘sinking’ feeling without feeling overwhelmed. Clean seams and stitching are observed throughout, with solid craftsmanship across the board. This chair also sports side pockets, making it convenient to store small items such as television remotes and cell phones. Also, check out the best office chair under $500.

 #4  Giantex Power Lift Chair Recliner – Best Budget


WHY WE LIKE IT: This power lift chair is a smooth operator, featuring a quiet lift and recline operation, super comfortable, and odor-free, high-density foam This makes it an excellent choice for elderly and limited mobility users who would prefer a budget, non-leather, basic chair with a more breathable fabric better suited to warmer environments.

Pros
  • High comfort
  • Quiet operation
  • Back and footrest work independently
Cons
  • No heating
  • No massage
  • Color may be off-putting

The controls of this power-lifting seat are very intuitive, with two buttons for lifting and reclining. Its back and footrest move independently, creating a wider range of seating positions from straight to near recline. And the silent motor keeps the operation whisper quiet, with a steady but slow pace while activated.

And while the fabric appears thin, with that, you also get a breathable and comfortable chair, maintaining its shape even after repeated uses. Its backrest is firm and supportive, helping to alleviate muscle fatigue. Assembly is also a breeze, with a two-piece, sliding track construction easily achieved in five minutes. The best office chair for lower back pain is also a big help for those with mobility issues.

 #5  CANMOV Power Lift Recliner Chair – Best Design


WHY WE LIKE IT: This power lift recliner chair is solid across the board, with super plush, a highly creased, overstuffed padded construction with extra wide armrests and clean sewing patterns for design/comfort, near-vertical recline, and a silent electric motor. It is a value choice for limited mobility users preferring comfort and design over function (manual reclines required).

Pros
  • Plush feel
  • Large dimensions
Cons
  • No dual motor
  • No massage/vibration
  • Doesn’t lay flat

Arguably this chair’s biggest draw is its overstuffed microfiber and spongy padding, which creates a luxurious and sinking feeling while sitting. A simple 2-button remote control has options for the upper and lower to recline and shift the seatback to an upright position. The entire recliner is supported by a solid metal frame and a whisper-quiet motor. This no-frills recliner chair skips independent backrests/footrests and massage/vibration functions for simple, plush seating, placing a premium on comfort and looks-over function.

Dimensions are 34 x 39 x 41 inches, with a seat height of 17.7 inches and a max weight capacity of 300 pounds, making it one of the biggest on our list. Backrests can be adjusted up to 145 degrees for one of the closest angles to a nearly flat position, one of the best lift recliners for the elderly. It also comes with side pockets to store smaller items, such as notebooks and television remote controllers. The best office chair under $300 also has some good options.

 #6  Harper & Bright Designs Lift Chair – Best Recline


WHY WE LIKE IT: This lift chair offers steady performance, an overstuffed, high-density construction, high weight capacity (350 pounds), and reclining ability up to 160 degrees, second on our list to the flat-folding MCombo and Irene House. It is a solid choice for elderly and limited mobility users who do more resting and napping over activities such as TV watching or crocheting.

Pros
  • 160-degree recline
  • Sturdy construction
  • 350-pound weight capacity
Cons
  • 1-year warranty
  • Uncomfortable headrest
  • Narrow seat

This unit is supported by a steel base, measuring 32 x 37 x 41 inches with a seat back height of 26 inches, with a recommended height between 5’1″ to 6 “, making it about average-sized on our list Its power lift function is smooth, with a silent motor pushing the chair from its base to help users stand upright. Speed reclining and ascending falls at the correct pace without any herky-jerky movement.

Upholstery is decent for the class, made using polyurethane synthetic leather with a microfiber weave that is easy to clean. An independent footrest also allows for different leg positions. The lift mechanism, frame, and electronic parts carry a one-year warranty, which is about average for the list. While the best office chair under $200 has some great options as well.

Note: Other electric lift chairs we haven’t reviewed here that may be worth mentioning include the Mega Motion lift chair and some from Coaster Home Furnishings. The Mega Motion chair features a battery backup option, that your loved one will find useful when the power is out.

How We Decided

Choosing the best power recliner transforms the way elderly people or those with limited mobility relax, nap, and play in the home. If you’re looking for convenience in on-the-go travel, take a look at this list to find the best wheelchair for you.

In determining the best power recliner to buy, one should take into consideration overall dimensions, upholstery, weight capacity, recline ability, dual motors for controlling the backrest and footrest, and controls. We looked for a wide base for heavier people with a minimum weight capacity of 300 pounds (non-lifted) to prevent the lift mechanism and motor from wearing out. Also, have a look at some gaming chairs for comfort while playing.

We also preferred upholstery for power recliners, such as microfiber, as it’s plush and breathable, unlike leather and faux leather that builds up a sweat, despite being easier to clean. Other materials, such as polyester, are the next best thing in terms of breathability. Most options here also have a convenient side pocket for the remote or other items you may want handy.

Lastly, we also looked for chairs that reclined to a minimum of 140 degrees for more versatile seating and resting position. Dual motors were also preferred, with backrests and footrests operating independently for greater comfort and a wider range of seating positions. Bonus points were then awarded to chairs with heating and massaging functions strategically placed throughout the chair as it can help alleviate joint and muscle fatigue.

Best Power Recliner Buying Guide

The Most Important Features to Consider

We took into consideration the top features and comfort when reviewing the best lift chairs. Of course, there are many other options to weigh when reading power lift recliner reviews. But, to find the right, high-end power recliner lift chair, keep these main features in mind before you buy any good power lift recliner chair.

  1. Upholstery
    Just like for regular chairs, it’s important to consider your upholstery options for a recliner, so look for power recline chairs with microfiber, polyester fiber, and leather/synthetic leather, in that order, for breathability and extended seated sessions without being caked in sweat. This is especially true in hot and humid environments. If you tend to deal with fabric stains and need something moisture repellent, certain recliners come in performance fabrics so you can get durable comfort as a choice of fabric.
    • Recliners that lift you up are especially helpful for those who have difficulty getting out of chairs and reclining in them, as they can recline without needing to get up.
    • You don’t want to buy any top rated power lift recliners without ensuring that you’ll be comfortable.
    • That’s why it is important to consider features such as a best lift chair with adjustable head and neck support, plush armrests, and an ergonomic design that helps you maintain proper posture. The seat is very important, so make sure the size and seat depth works comfortably with your legs and that the softness of the seat is to your liking, especially if you’re after a softer or firmer chair. If you need additional comfort, you can buy a removable seat cushion with generous padding to create an even more comfortable seat.
    • The best way to do this is to carefully read power recliner reviews, and keep in mind your location’s typical weather and seasonal changes. Moreover, doing this will help you determine which best recliner review is suited for your needs.
    • Moreover, depending on the product you select, you might be interested in extra features, such as storage pockets, heating features, leg rest space, and much more. 
    • Even so, some lift power chairs can also be paired with medical equipment, which is especially helpful for hospice patients or disabled individuals. 
    • Basically, always review several best power lift recliner reviews before making a purchase.
  2. Dual Motors
    As with all power lift recliner chairs reviews, make sure you check into the maximum weight capacity it can lift. This is just one of the benefits that dual motors in top rated power recliner chairs can provide over single-motor recliners.
    • First, dual motors allow the user to adjust the backrest and footrest independently, providing a more customized experience.
    • Second, dual motors, usually found in the best electric recliner chairs, provide a smoother and quieter operation, making it easier to relax.
    • They also allow you to control the backrest and footrest separately, giving you greater flexibility in how best power lift chairs can best suit your needs. With dual motors, you also have access to a range of additional positions, which may make it easier to find the best comfort level for you if you’re not into the idea of two-position lift chairs.
    • Third, dual motors provide greater stability, preventing the chair from tipping over when lifting or reclining.
    • Finally, as you peruse through power recliner chair reviews, dual motors allow the user to stop at any position, making it easy to find the perfect position for watching TV, reading, or simply taking a nap. Reclining and standing functions can be controlled with the push of a button, making them the best lift chairs for the elderly that are easy to use.
    • Not everybody needs a large range of position options out of the recliner. Maybe some people just want to treat their recliner as a casual seat that they won’t sit in for long periods of time, so for some, a regular recliner with two chair positions isn’t that big of a deal as long as it reclines. It all depends on your lifestyle and needs.
    • Whether you need extra help getting in and out of your chair or looking for a more customized and comfortable experience, dual motors in power lift recliners are the way to go.
    • If you’re sensitive to sound, opt for models that are noted to provide squeak-free use.
    • With that said, if you’re looking for a luxurious recliner that offers maximum comfort from the best power recliners on the market, look no further than the top-of-the-line options from leading brands.
  3. Additional Features
    • Some may be satisfied with a basic lift chair, but there are other types of lift chairs that have extra features to further add the user’s comfort.
      • For example, some lift chairs have massage features like massage modes to help relieve tension in your back. Massage recliners can be a great investment if you regularly have back issues. Also consider the types of massage settings so that you can get some variety in the types of massages and massage times.
      • Certain models also feature a heat function and even heat settings to adjust the temperature to your liking. A heat mode can help soothe sore muscles or even just make your afternoon nap much cozier.
      • If you need some extra lower back support, keep an eye out for beneficial features on comfortable recliners that provide built-in lumbar support. Or you can always invest in a seat pillow to provide that extra support.
      • Alternatively, you could opt for a highly customizable chair, such as an office chair for back pain.

Best Power Lift Recliner Questions (FAQ)

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